The White Rim Trail, located in the Island in the Sky district of Canyonlands National Park, is truly a special place. This classic tour is a must for anyone visiting Utah’s canyon country, offering a perfect combination of great riding and spectacular scenery. We ride along the “White Rim” layer of sandstone, with dramatic canyons below and majestic red rock cliffs above. The trail leads to arches, towers and other fantastic rock formations. Your guides will lead you on bike and on foot to explore the hidden treasures the White Rim offers. Visit an Indian dwelling of ancient times or perhaps trek into a slot canyon disappearing into the desert sandstone. The White Rim is the trip of a lifetime. On the four-day tour, we ride approximately 20 - 25 miles each day. On the three-day tour, we ride approximately 30 - 35 miles each day. .
Itinerary
Day 1: Shuttle & First Ride – 14-18 miles | +2,190 / -2,340 ft – The White Rim is truly a mountain bike classic. We meet at Rim Tours HQ at 8:30 AM—please be on time, but not early. Our staff will explain where to park and collect your vehicle keys. You’ll meet your guides and receive expedition-style dry bags for your personal gear. If you’re bringing alcohol, please give it to your guides to load onto the truck—no glass or computers in your dry bags. If you’re renting a bike from Rim Tours, this is when you’ll get fitted. Arrive ready to ride with helmet, shoes, and pack prepared. A continental breakfast will be available at Rim Tours. Following brief introductions, we load into the shuttle van for the hour-long drive to Canyonlands and the start of your adventure. The trip begins at either the Shafer Trail or Mineral Bottom Trail, depending on campsite availability. Once at the put-in, we unload the bikes, provide an orientation, and shove off. Our 4x4 support truck follows at a distance with water, snacks, and a hearty lunch as we make our way to camp. Once at camp, we set up and your work is done! Your guides prepare hors d’oeuvres while you relax with a well-deserved cold drink. Hot washcloths are available to freshen up while a delicious meal is prepared. Lounge with our camp library or set out for an exploratory hike. As darkness descends, watch the light transform your surroundings and prepare for truly spectacular night skies.
Day 2: White Rim Road to Murphy Hogback – 23-30 miles | +3,065 / -3,350 ft – Sip morning coffee (or tea) as the sun begins to rise over the Canyonlands. While you enjoy the splendor of early morning, your guides prepare a hearty breakfast—a great way to begin a day of exploring and pedaling. After breaking camp, we head back out on the White Rim Road. Regardless of direction, you’ll be greeted by stunning vistas and endless views. The riding is generally moderate both physically and technically, with a few challenging sections along the way. Your ride today ends with the infamous Murphy Hogback climb. Once you reach the top, you’ll be treated to the satisfaction of a great day of riding and an amazing campsite. While your guides prepare a fresh, filling dinner, explore the area or simply relax and take in the view. After dinner, get ready to view planets, satellites, the Milky Way, and more in this Gold-Tier International Dark Skies National Park!
Day 3: Monument Basin & Canyonlands Exploration – 20-25 miles | Varies – Wake to another stunning desert sunrise and fuel up with a hot breakfast. Today’s ride takes us deeper into the heart of Canyonlands, with opportunities to explore side canyons and take in the incredible geological formations that make this landscape so unique. The White Rim Road continues to deliver breathtaking views at every turn. Your guides will point out key landmarks and share the geology and history of this remarkable place. We’ll stop for a trailside lunch with views that rival any restaurant in the world. As we approach our final campsite, take time to appreciate the remoteness and solitude of this wilderness experience. Tonight we celebrate our journey with a special dinner under the stars.
Day 4: Final Climb & Return to Moab – 14-18 miles | +2,190 / -2,340 ft – Be sure to load up at breakfast—today we complete our adventure. Once packed and loaded, the phenomenal views continue as we climb back up to the top of Island in the Sky mesa. Once we’ve met the challenge of the day, we enjoy a relaxing lunch and meet our shuttle van. Reflect on your travels with your adventure companions as your guides prepare for the return to Moab. Expect to arrive back at Rim Tours HQ between 4-5 PM. All itineraries are subject to modification. Our guides and tour managers may adjust routes, timing, and activities based on weather, trail conditions, land agency requirements, group abilities, and other factors. These adjustments are made to ensure your safety and the best possible adventure experience. Last sync: 2026-01-20 17:31 ---
Distance: 14-18 miles | Elevation: +2,190 / -2,340 ft Distance: 23-30 miles | Elevation: +3,065 / -3,350 ft Distance: 20-25 miles | Elevation: Varies Distance: 14-18 miles | Elevation: +2,190 / -2,340 ft
Meeting Info
| Time | 8:30 AM |
| Location | Rim Tours Headquarters, 1233 South Highway 191, Moab, UT |
| End Time | 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM |
Difficulty & Terrain
| Tour Rating | Moderate/Intermediate. |
| Terrain | Doubletrack 4x4 trail. Areas of exposed and/or broken rock. Areas of loose dirt or sand. |
| Technical Difficulty | Moderately technical with short segments of intermediate technical riding. Several steep climbs and descents. |
| Altitude | 4,500ft to 6,000ft (1370m to 2830m). |