The best gravel rides around Arches

There are several gravel biking opportunities in the wider Arches area. While the park itself has paved scenic drives, the surrounding region offers a variety of unpaved roads and 4x4 routes suitable for gravel biking. Komoot features 6 moderate gravel routes in the vicinity, providing diverse options for exploration.

The best time for gravel biking near Arches National Park is typically spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). During these seasons, temperatures are more moderate, making for a more enjoyable experience. Summers can be extremely hot, and winters can bring cold temperatures, though some routes may still be accessible.

Due to the unique and often rugged terrain around Moab and Arches, which can include sandstone shelves, deep sand, and embedded rock, a traditional gravel bike might be challenged. For many iconic routes, a short-travel hardtail mountain bike with wider tires (45-50mm) and front suspension is often recommended for better comfort and efficiency. Be prepared for varied surfaces.

While many routes in the Arches area can be rugged, some sections of roads like Willow Springs Road (BLM378) offer more accessible unpaved surfaces that might be suitable for families with appropriate bikes and experience. It's always best to research specific route conditions, as 'gravel' here can be quite challenging.

Gravel biking in the Arches region offers breathtaking views of the iconic red sandstone landscape, dramatic desert vistas, and formations like Balanced Rock. Routes that utilize Willow Springs Road can offer unique perspectives of the park's back entrance and the La Sal Mountain Range. The area is also an International Dark Sky Park, providing incredible stargazing opportunities after sunset.

While the specific routes listed in this guide are not directly within Arches National Park, the broader region offers stunning natural and man-made attractions. You can explore highlights such as The black rock viaduct, Puy de Manzagol, and the Neuvic Dam. The Arches National Park itself is home to iconic formations like Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, and The Windows Section.

Yes, many gravel biking experiences in the Arches area, including the Arches Backcountry Loop, are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. These loops often combine paved sections with dirt connectors and backcountry options for a comprehensive desert experience.

The gravel biking trails around Arches National Park are generally considered moderate to challenging. The terrain is often rugged, featuring sandstone shelves, deep sand, embedded rock, and 4x4 routes. Riders should be prepared for sections that may require 'hike-a-bike' depending on the specific route and equipment. Komoot lists 6 moderate routes in the area.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique geological formations, the dramatic desert views, and the sense of adventure that comes with navigating the varied and sometimes challenging terrain. The opportunity to experience the park's beauty away from crowded main roads is also a common highlight.

While gravel biking on unpaved roads outside the immediate national park boundaries typically doesn't require special permits, entering Arches National Park itself does require an entrance fee. For specific routes like the White Rim Trail in nearby Canyonlands National Park, permits are required and must be booked in advance. Always check the official National Park Service website for the latest regulations and fees for any routes within park boundaries.

Public transportation options directly to gravel biking trailheads in the Moab/Arches area are limited. Most visitors rely on personal vehicles or shuttle services to reach starting points. It's advisable to plan your route and transportation in advance, especially for trails further from Moab town center.