Simply stated, the Maze is like nothing else. Legends of the old west tell stories of outlaws escaping into its wildly remote and inaccessible canyons. Our ride begins atop the Orange Cliffs with distant views of snow-capped mountains and a glimpse of the rugged terrain we’ll soon encounter. Our two-night stay at the Maze Overlook will convince you there is not a more beautiful spot anywhere. The riding is as fun as anything you might find on Moab’s classic trails. Both tours provide a full day of hiking through the heart of the Maze and past the Chocolate Drops formation. The six day tour allows time for a hike to the Great Gallery, a world-renowned example of ancient “Barrier Canyon” rock art.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Please meet the group prepared to hike. After loading bikes and gear into the support vehicle we will be shuttled to the start of the hike (1.5-2 hour van ride) at the Horseshoe Canyon Trailhead. Our destination is the Great Gallery one of the most famous panels, after a 3.5 mile hike over compacted gravel and loose sand you will be standing at the base of a magnificent panel of Barrier Canyon-style rock art. Enjoy a lunch as you take in this 2,000 year old pictograph panel. We will finish the hike mid-afternoon and head to camp at North Point which is about 2.5 miles from Hans Flat Ranger Station. Once back in camp, the guides will assist you with tent set-up. At this point your work is done! The guides will set up lawn chairs and hors d’oeuvres while you enjoy a cold drink as a healthy delicious meal is prepared. Washbasins are available for personal use and a solar shower is usually available for 1 or 2 nights during the trip. This is your time to relax, whether you chose to lounge around camp with our library of books or set out for an exploratory hike.
Day 2 – After breakfast we will make our way towards the Maze Overlook. Expect a beautiful 28 mile day, with the support vehicle loaded with gear behind. The route travels along the top of the Orange Cliffs and down the Flint Trail to the Maze Overlook, one of the most stunning views in Canyonlands National Park. The guides will put out a lunch spread along the way, and be sure to load up on snacks too. Today’s ride takes us and our campsite for the next 2 nights.
Day 3 – 6 miles | 600 ft – The one mile long Maze Overlook Trail descends 600 feet. Carefully make your way down the moki steps and follow a sandy wash to the Harvest Scene. Lunch and snacks for the day will be prepared before leaving camp and carried with you. Having taken in the rock art, we will return to camp for a relaxing evening and a filling dinner. Please note there are exposed sections on the hike where 3 points of contact may be necessary. There may be a riding option for anyone who doesn’t wish to hike. Camp tonight will be the same as Day 1, Maze Overlook. The total hiking miles 6
Day 4 – After a hot and hearty breakfast we will breakdown camp and load the support vehicle. Expect a full day with wonderful views of Hatch Canyon on the way to the Teapot Rock Campsite. Look for petrified wood and maybe even find an arrowhead near Teapot Rock, but remember to please leave what you find! The guides will help to expedite camp set-up, leaving ample personal time before dinner. As the guides prepare a dinner, engage with your new friends in a game of “who can name the most constellations” to prepare yourself to the Park after dark. After dinner there is the chance to take a short hike in the moonlight or gaze to the sky. Easily view planets, satellites, the Milky Way, and more in this Gold-Tier International Dark Sky Park!
Day 5 – Fill up on a delicious breakfast and get ready to head deeper in to the red rock wilderness! Today is the most challenging ride. Be prepared for undulating technical terrain, though only over a short distance. This If conditions permit we may try to go to the Dolls House the trail can be pretty sandy. You may ride as far out-and-back as you would like, hike, or rest for the day.
Day 6 – 12-35 miles | 6,000 ft –
Distance: 6 miles | Elevation: 600 ft Distance: 12-35 miles | Elevation: 6,000 ft