Kokopelli's Trail

The full Kokopelli's Trail, stretching from Loma, Colorado, to Moab, Utah, is widely considered a difficult to very difficult bikepacking route. It is best suited for advanced riders with excellent endurance and technical skills, and is not recommended for beginners. The trail features significant elevation changes, technical sections, deep sand, and rocky climbs. While the Komoot tour linked here covers an easier, shorter section, the entire trail presents a substantial challenge.

The trail offers highly varied and often demanding terrain, with approximately 85% unpaved surfaces. Cyclists will encounter a mix of singletrack, doubletrack, sand, dirt, gravel, and jeep roads, along with some paved sections. Expect technical climbs, rugged descents, rocky paths, washboards, and deep sandy sections. Some parts may even require hike-a-bike, where you'll need to walk your bike.

Most cyclists complete the full 142-158 mile Kokopelli's Trail over 3 to 5 days. The exact duration depends on your fitness level, riding pace, and how much time you spend enjoying the scenery and camping along the way. Careful planning for water and supplies is essential for multi-day trips.

The ideal times to cycle the trail are during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to October). These seasons offer more moderate temperatures, avoiding the extreme heat of summer and the potential for snow and freezing conditions in winter. Spring brings wildflowers, while fall offers crisp air and beautiful light. Be prepared for unpredictable weather changes in any season.

The trail offers spectacular and diverse scenery, showcasing the rugged beauty of the American Southwest. You'll experience awe-inspiring desert vistas, stunning canyons, and towering mesas. The route largely follows the Colorado River, providing regular views. Highlights include views near Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, the La Sal Mountains, and the iconic red rock landscapes of Moab. The landscape becomes more 'Mars-like' towards the Utah desert. The Komoot tour specifically passes by Kokopelli Road.

The Kokopelli's Trail officially starts in Loma, Colorado, and ends in Moab, Utah. Parking is available at both ends. In Loma, the trailhead is typically accessed near the Loma Boat Launch. In Moab, various parking options exist depending on your final destination, often near the Colorado River or within town. Given the point-to-point nature of the trail, shuttle services are commonly used to transport riders or vehicles between the start and end points.

Generally, dogs are permitted on the Kokopelli's Trail, but specific regulations can vary depending on the land management agency for each section (Bureau of Land Management, US Forest Service). It is crucial to keep dogs on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure their safety, especially given the remote and rugged nature of the trail. Always pack out all waste.

No specific permit is required to cycle the Kokopelli's Trail itself. However, portions of the trail pass through the McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area. While there isn't a general entrance fee for the conservation area, some specific recreational sites or campgrounds within it might require a fee. Always check with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for the most current regulations and any potential fees for specific activities or areas you plan to access.

Yes, the route is part of a larger network and intersects with several other trails. Notably, it forms one-third of the larger "Grand Loop" bikepacking route. Along its course, the trail also passes through sections of the ADT - Colorado C - Q - Seg 6, Rabbit Valley 1 Trail, and includes segments of roads like 725B Road and 719A Road.

Given the trail's remote and challenging nature, essential packing includes sufficient water (or a reliable filtration system), food, navigation tools (GPS device/app and physical map), a comprehensive repair kit for your bike, first-aid supplies, sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses), layers of clothing for varying temperatures, and camping gear if you plan to bikepack. Water sources are scarce, so planning for water caching is often necessary.

One significant challenge is the scarcity of water sources, making careful planning and water caching almost a requirement for self-supported trips. Deep sand sections, particularly in the Utah desert, can be very challenging to ride. Many experienced riders suggest starting early to avoid the midday heat and being prepared for rapid weather changes. The final descent into Moab, especially along Porcupine Rim, is often highlighted as an epic reward for the journey.