Navajo Rocks East Loop

This Moab area mountain bike route combines the Ramblin’ and Rocky Tops trails on the east side of the Navajo Rocks trail system to form an 8.8 mile loop ride. The route features a wide variety of desert terrain ranging from smooth slickrock to loose rocks and ledges to packed dirt and sand. Intermediate and advanced riders will feel right at home while strong beginners may enjoy this trail for building skills with the expectation that they may need to walk some short sections. This trail is also open to hikers.

The Navajo Rocks trail system is located on Highway 313 near Canyonlands National Park. To reach the trailhead from Moab, Utah:

1. Drive north on Hwy 191 for 10.6 miles.
2. Turn left at the signed junction for Hwy 313 and Canyonlands National Park.
3. Continue on Hwy 313 for 7.3 miles to the main Navajo Rocks parking area on the right.

This loop may be ridden in either direction, however an initial downhill section of the Ramblin’ Trail makes it more fun to ride in a clockwise direction. From the parking area, begin riding north on the signed Ramblin’ Trail, following the paint stripes when on slickrock sections. An initial short climb leads to the top of an exhilarating downhill slickrock section that is sure to put a smile on your face. Keep riding down the slickrock slope through numerous dips and curves as the trail quickly descends more than 230 feet.

Continue on as the trail meanders through the desert landscape. A good mix of ledges, sand and rocky sections are encountered that keep the ride very fun and challenging. After approximately 3.4 miles, the trail ends at a parking area alongside Highway 313. Cross the road to the start of the Rocky Tops Trail to continue on the loop.

Begin riding on the Rocky Tops Trail as it heads toward the rim of a plateau. The riding is more technical and challenging as you make your way through a mix of sandstone and dirt sections trending mostly uphill. After approximately 2.2 miles from the start of the Rocky Tops Trail, the trail reaches the Navajo Sandstone at the base of a big dome that you must climb. Continue on, following the painted lines on the stone to stay on course. After another mile, the trail crests near the top of the dome, offering some of the best views of the ride. From here the riding gets a little easier and is mostly downhill before arriving at the end of the Rocky Tops Trail at the junction with the Coney Islands Trail. Continue another 0.2 miles on the Coney Islands Trail to the junction with the Middle Earth Trail. Turn right onto the Middle Earth Trail and continue 0.6 miles, crossing back over Highway 313 to reach the trailhead and complete the loop.

Stay on designated trails.

Clean up after pets.

Pack out all trash.

Mountain biking can be a dangerous activity. Ensure your equipment is properly maintained and appropriate for the terrain. Be sure to wear appropriate safety gear including a helmet.

This trail guide is provided by Backcountry Post.