The White Rim Trail is a 100 mile (161 km) loop on a four-wheel-drive road in Canyonlands National Park. It is packed with US Southwest "wow" scenery – think the Bugs Bunny and Road Runner Show. Flat top mesas, giant spires, sheer drop-offs and gravity defying arches dazzle the senses.The trail travels around the white rim sandstone of the "Island in the Sky" – a mesa carved out by the Colorado and Green rivers.
Although the trail is shared with motorized vehicles, mountain bikers usually have many miles of blissful, uninterrupted peace. At day's end, riders roll into sublime campsites with stunning views. It really is the ultimate multi-day mountain bike ride.
What Skill do I Need for the White Rim Trail?
The trail is not technically difficult, but it is long and has a few challenging hills. You don't need to be an experienced mountain biker, but you do need to be in good condition. For the fit, novice rider it is best enjoyed as a 4 day trip with plenty of time to savour the scenery and do some short hikes. It can be a great trip for active, outdoorsy families with older kids.
For the most part, the road undulates gently over hard packed dirt and grippy slick rock with a few sandy sections. You'll feel a zen-like calm riding through the serene canyon lands. Be prepared to be shaken from your reverie with some killer hills, most notably Hardscrabble and Murphy's Hogback. The major climbs add up to 4000 vertical feet (1219 m), but on a 4 day trip they are well spaced.
Experienced endurance riders are drawn to the trail's length and challenge themselves by completing the route in a grueling one or two days.
Should I Go on a Guided White Rim Trail Trip?
All riders should have a rugged 4X4 support vehicle to accompany them as there is no potable water along the trail. On a multi-day trip this is absolutely essential for carrying camping gear, food and a bike repair kit. Park permits are required and camping reservations need to be made well in advance.
For safety and convenience, taking a guided trip is a great option. Magpie Adventures is a well respected company that runs small, personalized White Rim trips for beginners to experts. Owners Mike and Maggie are fantastic guides who take care of every detail and ensure that their clients are happy, safe, and incredibly well fed. They're terrific instructors if you want to brush up on your skills, and they're very knowledgeable about the geology and history of the area.
Many people bring their own bikes, but if you prefer to rent one, Poison Spider Bike Shop in Moab has an excellent selection. If you're booking a tour with Magpie, they can arrange this for you.
What Will I See Along the White Rim Trail?
Red-hued canyon lands, delicate desert flora, snaking rivers, and big horn sheep will have your camera working overtime. The camping areas are just as impressive. My personal favourites are the White Crack and Labyrinth.
Along the route, there are several scenic look-outs and short hikes that should not be missed:
- Gooseneck Overlook is named for a spectacular curve in the Colorado River. The final dramatic scene from the movie Thelma and Louise was shot here.
- Musselman Arch spans 120 feet (37 m). For a scary thrill, walk across it and dare to look down at the canyon 1000 feet (305 m) below.
- The White Crack Overlook has fabulous views over the Colorado and Green Rivers and the park's two other recreational areas: The Needles and The Maze.
- The Black Crack is a natural fissure a few feet wide and seemingly bottomless. Indulge your inner child by jumping across this intimidating piece of geology.
- Holemon Slot Canyon begs to be explored with its curves and rounded chambers carved by ferocious flash floods.
Planning Your White Rim Trail Trip
- The best time to go is Spring or Fall. Even then, expect large temperature variations. Dress in layers and and bring something warm for the evenings. Sun screen is essential.
- The funky town of Moab, 32 miles (51 km) from Canyonland National Park has services and amenities for all pre and post trip needs.
- The closest major airports are in Salt Lake City, Utah (240 miles/386 km from Moab) and Grand Junction, Colorado (120 miles/193 km from Moab). Discover Moab has detailed information on transportation options.
Sources:
Utah's "Must Ride" Classic Trails: White Rim Trail. Retrieved on November 18, 2011 from http://www.utahmountainbiking.com
Moab Where Adventure Begins. Retrieved on November 18, 2011 from http://discovermoab.com
National Parks Services. White Rim Road. Retrieved on November 18, 2011 from http://nps.gov/cany/index.htm
Caroline Helbig - Passionate about travel, outdoor adventure, and health and fitness, her work has appeared in numerous print and on-line publications.
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