The best MTB trails in Arches National Park

No, traditional mountain biking on singletrack trails is not permitted within Arches National Park. Bicycles and e-bikes are only allowed on paved and unpaved roadways. For dedicated mountain biking experiences, the extensive trail systems in the nearby Moab area are highly recommended.

Within Arches National Park, you can enjoy scenic road cycling on paved routes like the Arches Scenic Drive, or on unpaved roads such as Salt Valley and Willow Springs dirt roads. These offer incredible views of the park's unique formations, though the unpaved sections can be challenging due to washboards and deep sand.

The broader Arches National Park region, including the surrounding Moab area, offers over 80 mountain biking routes. These range from scenic park roads to challenging singletrack trails outside the park boundaries.

While many routes in the immediate vicinity of Arches National Park are rated difficult, there are 7 easy routes and 21 moderate routes available in the wider region. These often include less technical sections or paved pathways suitable for a more relaxed ride. The paved bike path connecting Moab to the entrance of Arches National Park is a good option for families.

A popular route is the Moab Brands Parking – EZ Trail loop from Lions Park, a 22.6-mile (36.4 km) difficult trail exploring varied desert terrain. Another favorite is the Colorado River View – Moab Canyon Pathway loop from Grand County Transit Hub, an 11.0-mile (17.8 km) route through the scenic Colorado River corridor.

The best times for mountain biking in the Arches National Park region are typically spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). During these seasons, temperatures are milder and more comfortable for outdoor activities. Summers can be extremely hot, and winters can bring cold temperatures and occasional snow.

While general park entrance fees apply, specific permits for biking on the permitted roadways within Arches National Park are not typically required. However, for certain activities like backpacking or canyoneering, permits are necessary. Always check the official National Park Service website for the most current regulations: nps.gov.

Even if you're biking on park roads, you'll encounter stunning geological features. Highlights include the iconic Delicate Arch, the expansive Landscape Arch, and the unique Double O Arch. The scenic drives offer views of towering fins, balanced rocks, and the La Sal Mountains.

The Arches National Park region is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the dramatic red-rock landscapes, the unique geological formations, and the challenging yet rewarding trails found in the surrounding Moab area. Over 4000 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore this varied terrain.

Yes, the region offers numerous advanced mountain biking trails, particularly in the Moab area. For example, the Moab Brands Parking – EZ Trail loop from Three Penguins is a difficult 29.8-mile (47.9 km) path with expansive views and challenging sections. Another demanding option is the Climb to Burro Pass – Porcupine Rim Singletrack loop from Lions Park, which is nearly 61 miles (98 km) long.

Parking is available at various trailheads and visitor centers within Arches National Park for those cycling on park roads. For mountain biking in the surrounding Moab area, designated parking lots are available at popular trailheads like Moab Brands Parking or the Porcupine Rim Trailhead Parking. It's always advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, as parking can fill up quickly.

Yes, many of the mountain biking routes in the region are designed as loops. Examples include the Moab Brands Parking – EZ Trail loop from Lions Park and the Moab Brands Parking – EZ Trail loop from Three Penguins. These loops allow you to start and end at the same point, offering a convenient way to explore the landscape.