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Cycling HAPPENINGS September 2017


Article courtesy of Rim Tours Mountain Bike Adventures 1233 S. Hwy 191, 435-259-5223
Introduction to Mountain Biking in Moab
Especially for first-time beginners and those relatively new to the sport
By
Franklin Seal, Rim Tours

For those who have never ridden off-road on a mountain bike, visiting Moab presents the best opportunity to discover what mountain biking is all about. And for those who’ve done a bit of riding but are still relatively new to the sport, Moab offers you a chance to step up your game in a major way.

In the early days of mountain biking, Moab gained a rep for extreme trails (think Porcupine Rim and the Slickrock Trail.) But that was so last century!

During the past 10 years, Moab has built 150 miles of new singletrack trails. We’re host to some of the best moderate level mountain bike trails in the world. So, if you’re wondering whether Moab is the place to take your first real off-road ride, think no more. As long as you’re comfortable operating hand brakes and gear shifters, and pedaling up moderate slopes, you’ll be fine. And to make your introduction all the smoother, Moab has some of the most experienced mountain bike guides, ready with all the latest gear and riding tips to get you out on the trail safely, and in style.

Below is a brief summary of some of Moab’s best beginner and moderate/intermediate level mountain bike trails offered by Rim Tours, Moab’s original mountain bike outfitter" . Rim Tours offers half-day guided tours starting at $95 per person ($85 for groups of 4 or more.) They include a bike, helmet, water bottle (yours to keep after the tour,) trail snacks, ground transport, mountain bike guide, park entrance fees, and bike insurance. Gratuity is not included but is encouraged. Most tours during September begin around 8 AM (except the Desert Sunrise tour) and they involve about 2.5 hours of pedaling finishing around 12:30 PM. October tours begin around 9 AM.

To book a guided mountain bike tour call 435.259.5223, email tours@rimtours.com or visit https://rintours.com for more info.

Courthouse Loop (aka The Bar M Loop): Spectacular views of Arches National Park

This tour is a great introduction to mountain biking in Moab! Spectacular views of Arches National Park and gently rolling terrain on wide, doubletrack make this ride perfect for beginners and families. Many riders are able to try the Rusty Spur Trail, just off the main loop, as their first foray into singletrack terrain. Whether you’re new to the sport or just looking for an easy cruise, our guides will be happy to help you improve your skills.

Desert Sunrise: Perfect for those without a lot of mountain biking experience

Even though this tour leaves town at the crack of dawn, the magnificent views and desert sunrise are worth waking up for! Join us for this memorable sunrise tour, complete with a delicious continental-style breakfast, unparalleled scenic vistas and a fun easy route through amazing desert terrain, including some sections of slickrock. This tour is perfect for those without a lot of mountain biking experience. That said, all riders need to be comfortable using hand brakes as well as be fit enough to pedal up some rising terrain. Three person minimum required for this tour. Please call or email for availability.

Dead Horse Point Singletrack: Towering 2,000 feet above the Colorado River, a breathtaking panorama with sculpted pinnacles and buttes.

Dead Horse Point is one of Utah’s most spectacular state parks and offers a great taste of what Moab mountain biking is all about. Towering 2,000 feet above the Colorado River, the park provides a breathtaking panorama of the Canyonlands area with sculpted pinnacles and buttes. This super fun introduction to singletrack has rolling terrain, mixed with some short climbs and lots of fun sections to cruise on. Enjoy the Intrepid Trail in the morning then kick back for lunch at the park’s main viewpoint. Finish your day on the Twisted Tree and Prickly Pear trails on the west side of the park.

Klondike Bluff: A classic Moab ride! You'll gain elevation as you “get your pedal on

This is a classic Moab ride, including a large expanse of tilted slickrock, climbing up toward the boundary of Arches National Park atop the ridge. Having a good fitness base will help you enjoy this ride. Keep your eyes open for the dinosaur tracks embedded in sandstone along the way.

Riders will experience a variety of Moab’s unique terrain with slickrock and short technical rocky sections. At the top of the climb, a short hike takes us into a remote area of the park and breathtaking views of the colorful bluffs below. Remember, the return ride is almost all downhill!

Moab Brands Trails Singletrack: Mix and match singletrack riding in small doses

Are you looking to test out some singletrack riding in small doses? Mix and match trails like the Rusty Spur, Lazy EZ, North 40 and Deadman’s Ridge. Your guide will combine just the right routes to match your ability level.




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