Moab is a world-class road cycling destination with low-traffic paved roads that wind through dramatic canyons, along rivers, and over mountain passes with 4,000+ feet of climbing — all surrounded by the most spectacular red rock scenery in the American West. While better known for mountain biking, Moab’s road cycling scene has grown dramatically since the Skinny Tire Festival launched in 2001, and today the area offers nine distinct routes ranging from 33 to 79 miles. Rim Tours offers guided road cycling tours with support vehicles for riders who want to explore these remote routes safely.
What Makes Moab Special for Road Cycling
Most road cycling destinations offer either great scenery or great riding. Moab delivers both in extraordinary measure. Low-traffic roads follow the Colorado River through towering sandstone canyons, climb over the shoulders of the La Sal Mountains with alpine meadows and aspen groves, traverse mesa tops with 360-degree panoramic views, and pass through landscapes that look like they belong on another planet.
The road cycling community has firmly “discovered” Moab. As one local bike shop owner puts it, “Very rarely do I not see a road cyclist on the La Sal Mountain Loop anymore. Before, it was very rare to ever see one.” During fall, an estimated 30% of visitors in town have road bikes on their cars.
The Skinny Tire Festival and Moab’s Cycling Events
The seeds of Moab’s road cycling culture were planted in 2001 with the creation of the Skinny Tire Festival, an annual early-spring weekend of road cycling tours founded by Mark Griffith. The festival has quadrupled in size over its history and spawned two additional annual events:
- Skinny Tire Festival (spring) — The flagship event, known for its family-like atmosphere. Many participants have returned every year since its founding.
- Moonshadows in Moab (summer) — An evening ride over the mountains, taking advantage of longer daylight hours.
- Moab Century Tour (fall) — A fall weekend festival for serious road riders.
- Grand Fondo (fall) — An annual race organized by Poison Spider Bicycles.
These events are worth planning your trip around if you enjoy group riding and a festive atmosphere.
What to Expect When Road Cycling in Moab
Before you plan your trip, understand what makes Moab road cycling unique:
Few loop routes. Due to the canyon terrain, most rides are out-and-back. But don’t let that deter you — as festival founder Griffith explains, “Since many of these routes are traveling through a canyon, these out-and-backs really ride more like a loop.” The return leg looks and feels completely different due to the spectacular scenery and changing light.
Remote riding. Most routes take you into very remote areas with few services, including water. If you’re accustomed to riding in populated areas with convenience stores every few miles, you’ll need to adjust your preparation. Bring more tools, more water, and more food than you think you need.
Dry air demands hydration. Wear a hydration pack regardless of the route. Even during shoulder seasons and winter, humidity levels often drop into the teens and twenties. You’ll dehydrate much faster than you expect, especially on climbs at elevation.
Start at first light in summer. Summer temperatures peak at 2 to 3 PM and don’t significantly cool until just before sunset. Eight o’clock in the evening can be as hot as noon, so the idea of riding during the “cool of the evening” doesn’t work in Moab. Leave at dawn.
Shoulderless roads. Many of the two-lane highways lack significant shoulders. You’ll need to be prepared for traffic-aware riding, especially during peak tourist season.
Traffic laws are enforced. Moab is extremely bike-friendly, but obeying traffic laws is still required and enforced.
The Rides
Moab offers nine distinct road cycling routes, varying from 33.4 to 79 miles, ranging from flat riverside rolls to extremely difficult climbs of 4,000+ feet over mountain passes. Here are the highlights:
Highway 128 (Colorado River Road): Perhaps the most spectacular canyon road ride in Utah. This route follows the Colorado River through a deep red rock canyon with towering walls on both sides. Relatively flat with stunning scenery around every bend.
La Sal Mountain Loop Road: The signature climb of Moab road cycling. Starting from the desert floor at 4,000 feet, this route climbs over 4,000 feet through pinyon-juniper forest, oak brush, aspen groves, and alpine meadows. The views of the surrounding canyon country from the high points are unforgettable.
Potash Road: A scenic route that passes by ancient petroglyphs, dinosaur tracks, and dramatic canyon walls before reaching the Potash Evaporation Ponds with their surreal blue colors.
Dead Horse Point: A climb to one of Utah’s most famous viewpoints, with 2,000-foot drops to the Colorado River below.
Poison Spider Bicycles produces an excellent route guide PDF detailing all nine rides with maps, elevation profiles, and points of interest. Physical copies are available at their shop on Main Street.
Lodging Tips
Road cyclists tend to prefer Moab’s hotels, bed and breakfasts, townhomes, and condominiums over the RV parks and campgrounds frequented by mountain bikers and off-roaders. A few things to know:
- Not all lodging establishments provide bike lockups or allow bikes in rooms — ask when booking
- Book well in advance during spring and fall seasons — Moab fills up fast
- Consider lodging on the north end of town for easier access to Highway 128 and the La Sal Mountain Loop
Support Services
Moab has abundant bike shops, though most focus primarily on mountain bikes. Several also serve road cyclists with repair services, parts, and local route knowledge.
Rim Tours (435.259.5223) offers guided road cycling tours with support vehicles — an excellent option for riders tackling the longer, more remote routes. Several shuttle services can also provide transport to ride start points:
- Coyote Shuttle: 435.259.8656
- Porcupine Shuttle: 435.260.0896
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Moab?
Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) offer the most comfortable temperatures — typically 55 to 80 degrees. Early spring can be windy, and fall offers the added bonus of golden aspens on the La Sal Mountain Loop. Summer riding requires pre-dawn starts to beat the heat.
How long is the La Sal Mountain Loop by bike?
The full La Sal Mountain Loop is approximately 63 miles with over 4,000 feet of climbing. It can be shortened by turning around at various points. Most riders budget a full day for the complete loop, with an early start.
Can I rent a road bike in Moab?
Yes, several shops offer road bike rentals, though selection may be more limited than mountain bike rentals. Poison Spider Bicycles is one of the best-stocked shops for road cyclists. Call ahead to confirm availability, especially during festival weekends.
Is Highway 128 safe for road cycling?
Highway 128 along the Colorado River is one of the most popular road cycling routes in the area. Traffic is generally light, though the road has no shoulders in many sections. Ride defensively, wear bright colors, and avoid peak tourist traffic times. A guided tour with a support vehicle adds an extra layer of safety on this remote route.
Does Rim Tours offer road cycling tours?
Yes. Rim Tours offers guided road cycling tours with support vehicles, providing water, mechanical support, and safety backup for riders exploring Moab’s more remote routes. Contact us at 435.259.5223 for availability and route options.