The best traffic-free bike rides in Grandstaff Canyon Wilderness Study Area

This guide features two easy no-traffic road cycling routes, offering a peaceful way to experience the stunning landscapes around the Grandstaff Canyon Wilderness Study Area. These routes are designed for a relaxed ride, allowing you to enjoy the scenery without significant traffic concerns.

While cycling the scenic roads accessing the Grandstaff Canyon area, you'll be treated to dramatic views of towering Navajo sandstone cliffs and the winding Colorado River. The region is characterized by its vibrant red rock formations, contrasting with the lush riparian zones found along the perennial streams within the canyons.

Yes, while the cycling routes themselves are on roads, they provide access to trailheads and viewpoints for notable natural features. You can find views of the impressive Morning Glory Natural Bridge, a 243-foot natural sandstone arch, and experience the unique riparian ecosystem of Grandstaff Canyon Creek. The Upper Grandstaff Canyon Trail also offers scenic views.

The Grandstaff Canyon area is best enjoyed during spring and fall when temperatures are milder. Summer can be very hot, though cycling near the Colorado River on Highway 128 can offer some relief with shade from the cliffs and cooler air near the water. Winter can be pleasant on clear days, but be prepared for colder temperatures.

Yes, the routes featured in this guide are rated as easy. For example, the Moab loop from Moab is an easy 25 km ride, and the Moab – Moab loop from Shell is an easy 18.6 km route. These are great options for those new to road cycling or looking for a relaxed experience.

Absolutely. The easy, no-traffic routes highlighted in this guide are well-suited for families. The scenic Highway 128, which provides access to the canyon, is known for its relatively low traffic and stunning views, making it a pleasant environment for family rides.

Parking is generally available at trailheads and designated pull-offs along Highway 128 (River Road), which is the main access route to the Grandstaff Canyon area. Many cyclists also start their rides from Moab, which offers various parking options and serves as a central cycling hub.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning red rock scenery, the peacefulness of the no-traffic routes, and the unique experience of cycling alongside the Colorado River with dramatic canyon walls rising around them.

No specific permits are generally required for road cycling on public roads like Highway 128 that access the Grandstaff Canyon Wilderness Study Area. However, if you plan to hike into the canyon or engage in other activities, always check with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for any specific regulations or permits for those activities. More information can be found on the BLM website.

The town of Moab, located nearby, is a renowned cycling hub and offers a wide range of accommodation options, from hotels and motels to campgrounds. You'll also find numerous cafes, restaurants, and pubs in Moab to refuel after your ride. Moab is an excellent base for exploring the region's cycling opportunities.

The Grandstaff Canyon Wilderness Study Area is primarily a hiking destination, known for its trails leading to features like the Morning Glory Natural Bridge. Road cycling is not permitted within the WSA's hiking trails. However, the scenic Utah State Highway 128 (River Road) provides excellent road cycling opportunities with stunning views and access to the canyon's trailhead.

While this guide focuses on specific no-traffic road routes, the broader Moab area is a renowned cycling destination with various options. Many routes in the region, including sections of the scenic byways, offer low-traffic or dedicated paved paths suitable for a car-free or low-traffic cycling experience. Moab is recognized as a great cycling hub, as detailed on Visit Utah.