Slickrock Bike Trail

The Slickrock Bike Trail is the most famous mountain bike trail in the world -- a 10.5-mile loop across undulating Navajo Sandstone that has defined Moab as the mountain biking capital of the world since the trail was established in 1969. Originally marked for motorcycle use, it was adopted by mountain bikers in the 1980s and has been a bucket-list ride ever since.

The experience is unlike any other bike trail. Instead of dirt singletrack, you ride across bare sandstone, following painted white dashes across a rolling landscape of rock domes, bowls, ridges, and ledges. The sandstone provides extraordinary traction -- despite being called 'slickrock' (a misnomer from early cowboys whose metal-shod horses slipped on it), rubber tires grip the rock like Velcro.

This allows you to ride up and down steep slopes that would be impossible on dirt.

The 2. 3-mile practice loop is the essential family component. Starting from the same trailhead, it covers the same type of terrain as the full loop in a fraction of the distance.

For families with teens (ages 12+) who are competent mountain bikers, the practice loop is thrilling, manageable, and provides the full Slickrock experience. It takes 1-2 hours and includes all the elements: steep climbs, technical descents, ridge riding, and panoramic views.

The full 10.5-mile loop is seriously challenging. It involves sustained climbs, technical rock features, and relentless exposure to sun and heat. Experienced riders need 3-5 hours. It is not suitable for beginners or young children. The views (Colorado River, La Sal Mountains, Moab Valley) are spectacular throughout.

Moab has several excellent bike shops offering mountain bike rentals ($50-80/day) with full-suspension bikes appropriate for Slickrock. Poison Spider Bicycles, Chile Pepper Bikes, and Rim Cyclery are the most popular. They can advise on trail conditions and appropriate bikes.

Safety considerations: carry abundant water (2+ liters per person), wear sun protection, and do not ride in midday summer heat. The rock absorbs heat and can exceed 130°F on the surface in summer. Helmets are mandatory. The trail has exposed edges in some sections -- stay on the marked route.