Top 5 Places to Mountain Bike in Utah

If you haven’t heard, Utah is home to some of the best – if not the best – mountain biking in the US. In fact, I argue that Utah mountain biking has earned first place when it comes to which state has the best riding.

So what makes mountain biking in Utah so good and special?

The terrain for one. Trails in Utah are wildly diverse (not to mention beautiful) and there is almost endless opportunity for riding in every corner of the state.

From the aspen-line singletrack around Park City to the red slickrock in Moab, Utah is one of the best destinations in the United States for mountain bikers.

If you’re ready to start planning your Utah road trip, read through this post for the best places to visit, trails to check off, and tips for planning your Utah mtb getaway.

What Makes Utah an Awesome Place for Mountain Biking?

There are a number of things that set Utah apart when it comes to mountain biking. Personally, I think that this state offers the most diverse riding and two-wheeled experiences out of any other state.

Here are a few reasons why Utah mountain biking is so awesome:

What are your favorite reasons for mountain biking in Utah? Leave a comment at the end!

Best Places to Mountain Bike in Utah

So now that you’re convinced that Utah should be on your bike-it list, where are the best places to ride?

1. Moab

Moab is the most iconic mountain bike destination in Utah (and probably the US…), so it’s no surprise that it tops this list.

Set against the backdrop of stunning red sandstone formations, the La Sal mountains, and vast, open desert landscapes, Moab offers an incredible diversity of trails.

The mountain biking in Moab is spread out over half a dozen trail networks. Amasa Back is one of the most popular networks with the iconic Captain Ahab Trail.

Navajo Rocks should also be on your list as well as the less-popular but equally fun Klonzo and Klondike Bluffs.

And, of course, there is The Whole Enchilada in the La Sals that links together Porcupine Rim, LPS, and UPS – also stellar rides.

I’ve ridden in Moab many times and this place always leaves me in awe of its beauty, uniqueness, and challenging terrain.

Every mountain biker should plan at least one trip to experience Moab’s one-of-a-kind trails. You could easily spend a week here and not touch every network or make a dent in the 1,000+ miles of trail!

2. St. George/Hurricane

Even though Moab is full of mountain bike magic, I personally prefer the St. George/Hurricane region in the southwestern corner of the state. This area also has incredible riding and jaw-dropping views, but minus the crowds (though it is getting found out…)

Gooseberry Mesa is one of the most popular networks in Hurricane. It’s full of punchy slickrock climbs and fast-rolling descents with incredible views out over Zion National Park. A pedal out to Gooseberry Point is a definite must!

My favorite network around Hurricane, however, is Guacamole. It’s a bit of a trek to get out there, but 100% worth it for the views and engaging trail riding.

The 7-mile Wire Mesa loop is also one of my favorites.

The mountain bike trails around St. George, which is about 20 minutes west of Hurricane, aren’t quite as fun in my opinion but if you’re in the area and have an extra day or two, they are worth checking out. The Santa Clara Preserve is where all the best riding is.

3. Cedar City

One of my all-time favorite mountain bike trails is in Cedar City: Blowhard. It’s a 7-mile shuttled descent down Blowhard Mountain above the town and it is a blast (if you like the raw, rough, old-school kind of stuff...)

Cedar City is a bit under the radar for Utah mountain biking, but it has some of the best purpose-built singletrack in the state, and more is getting put in each season.

The Iron Hills Trail System right outside town is the most popular network with super fun riding and easy-to-lap loops. Lichen It is one of the best-routed climb trails I’ve ever ridden.

There’s also the newer Three Peaks network that I haven’t ridden yet, but it gets great reviews and I’m really looking forward to returning to check it out.

A bit further afield is Brian Head Resort with its lift-served bike park and dozens of miles of backcountry bike trails.

About an hour east of Cedar City is the incredible Thunder Mountain loop with majestic views of Bryce Canyon. It’s a must-ride!

4. Park City & Salt Lake City

The riding around Salt Lake City and Park City is almost limitless. There are half a dozen bike parks and literally thousands of miles of singletrack. Holy moly. If only it didn’t snow in the winter, I would call it home…

Park City

Park City is known for its bike parks and being a Gold-Level IMBA riding area (which means it’s kind of a big deal).

The most popular bike park in Park City is Deer Valley with professionally built flow trails, old-school cross-country tracks, freeride zones with manmade features, jump lines, and more. There’s something for every level of skill and rider at Deer Valley.

Adjacent to the Deer Valley is Park City Mountain Resort, which has its own network of lift-served trails and dozens of miles of world-class singletrack to explore.

Park City is also home to the famous Wasatch Crest Trail, which is typically ridden as a shuttle and drops riders through several ecosystems over its 9-mile descent.

Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City has fewer trails than Park City, but it’s still worth checking out.

The most popular Salt Lake City mountain bike network is Corner Canyon just south of town. It’s an amazing network with trails suited for all levels from beginner trails to big features that I will probably never ride.

On the north side of town, there’s the Salt Lake City Foothills Trail System, which is home to a smaller and tamer network of trail, but is still worth checking out for the views.

For more info about trails to ride in SLC head over to my guest post on the best mountain bike trails to ride in the Salt Lake City Foothills.

And if you want a unique riding experience, head over to Antelope Island in the Great Salt Lake. You can drive there on the Davis County Causeway and ride the 50 miles of trail around the island. It’s more of an ‘experience’ rather than a mountain bike destination, but it’s a cool place to see on two wheels! Just give the buffalo their space…

Tips for mountain biking in Utah

Mountain biking in Utah can be an awesome experience, but it also requires good preparation and respect for the natural environment.

Here are some essential tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable Utah adventure:

1. Know the Trail: Before you set out, research the trail you plan to ride. Understand the difficulty level, terrain type, and length. Check trail conditions and weather forecasts. There are plenty of resources online (and on Two Wheeled Wanderer!) for finding trail maps, photos, and reviews, which can help you prepare for your ride.
2. Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Utah’s climate, especially in the desert regions, can be harsh. Always carry enough water with you and consider using a hydration pack for longer rides. Pack energy-rich snacks to keep your stamina up during the ride.
3. Dress Appropriately: Wear moisture-wicking clothing to stay dry and comfortable and don’t forget your helmet! Depending on the trail and weather conditions, you might also need gloves, arm and leg protection, and a jacket. Don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses to protect against the strong Utah sun.
4. Check Your Gear: Make sure your bike is in good working condition before you hit the trails. Check your brakes, tire pressure, and gears. Carry a basic repair kit with you that includes a plug kit, a multi-tool, and a pump.
5. Respect Trail Rules and Etiquette: Yield to hikers and uphill riders. Stay on marked trails to protect the environment and respect areas that are off-limits. Remember that some trails may also be used by motorized vehicles or equestrians. Also respect no e-bike designations.
6. Be Prepared for Altitude: Some trails, particularly in the northern part of the state (although Moab is at elevation, too), can reach high elevations. Altitude can affect your breathing and energy levels, so pace yourself, hydrate, and eat regularly.
7. Know the Signs of Heat Exhaustion: In the hotter months, be aware of symptoms such as heavy sweating, rapid pulse, dizziness, or nausea. If you or someone in your group starts to feel unwell, find shade, rest, and hydrate.
8. Leave No Trace: Preserve Utah’s beautiful landscapes for future generations by taking any trash with you, not disturbing wildlife or plants, and not venturing off designated trails.
9. Share Your Plan: Tell someone where you’re going and when you plan to return, especially if you’re riding alone or in remote areas.

Final Thoughts

Utah is one of my favorite states for mountain biking because it has so much cool stuff to offer. From the red slickrock terrain of Moab to the manicured flow tracks at Deer Valley, there is more mountain biking diversity in this state than in any other.

Plus, you can ride here year-round! Park City and Salt Lake City are the perfect summer destinations while the southern Utah mountain biking networks of Hurricane and Moab are ideal in the cooler months.

Wherever your two wheels take you, you’re sure to have an awesome time. Get out there and have fun!

What are your favorite places to mountain bike in Utah? Are there any other destinations you’d add? What’s top of your bike-it list? Leave a comment below!