The best gravel rides in the La Sal Mountains

The La Sal Mountains offer a diverse gravel biking experience, ranging from hard-packed gravel and dirt roads to some paved sections. You'll encounter dense forests of pine and aspen, significant elevation changes, and routes that provide a striking contrast between alpine environments and red rock desert fringes. Expect engaging climbs and exhilarating descents.

There are several gravel bike trails in the La Sal Mountains, with komoot featuring 5 routes. These routes are generally considered difficult, offering challenging climbs and varied terrain for experienced gravel bikers.

The La Sal Mountains offer breathtaking views and unique natural features. You can explore alpine lakes like Warner Lake and Oowah Lake, or enjoy panoramic vistas stretching across red rock canyons. Nearby attractions include the Morning Glory Natural Bridge, the scenic Sand Flats gravel road, and impressive rock formations like North Window Arch and Double Arch.

The La Sal Mountains are particularly appealing during warmer months, as the higher elevations offer cooler temperatures—often 10-20 degrees Fahrenheit lower than Moab. Autumn is also a prime time, when aspen groves transform into vibrant displays of yellow and orange, creating a stunning backdrop for your ride.

Yes, for experienced riders seeking a substantial challenge, consider the Matrimony Spring – Slickrock Trailhead loop from Lions Park. This route spans 52.5 miles (84.5 km) and features significant climbs, often taking around 7 hours and 20 minutes to complete.

The gravel bike trails in the La Sal Mountains are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the challenging elevation changes, the diverse alpine and red rock landscapes, and the escape from the desert heat that the higher altitudes provide.

Yes, many of the gravel routes in the La Sal Mountains are designed as loops. For example, you can explore the Courthouse Wash – Moab Canyon Pathway loop from Holiday Inn, which is a 31.7-mile (51.1 km) trail with varied terrain.

The La Sal Mountains are known for significant elevation changes. Routes often involve substantial climbs; for instance, the Slickrock Trailhead – Sand Flats gravel road loop from Moab includes over 660 meters (2,165 feet) of ascent over its 22.2 miles (35.7 km).

Absolutely. The La Sal Mountains are unique for their striking contrast. Routes often transition from the red rock desert fringes and canyons, like those near the Hawks Glide Trail, into lush alpine forests at higher elevations, offering a dynamic visual experience throughout your ride.

Yes, several routes are accessible from or near Moab. The Slickrock Trailhead – Sand Flats gravel road loop from Moab is a popular option, offering views of the red rock landscape. Another choice is the Moab Canyon Pathway – Courthouse Wash loop from Eye of the Whale Trailhead Parking.

The La Sal Mountains are home to various wildlife. Sightings are common, especially during early morning or dusk. Keep an eye out for deer, elk, and a variety of bird species as you ride through the diverse ecosystems.

All the gravel routes featured in the La Sal Mountains are rated as difficult, making them suitable for advanced riders. The Nucla Town Entrance Signs loop from Nucla, for instance, covers over 70 km with more than 1000 meters of elevation gain, providing a significant test of endurance and skill.