The Whole Enchilada

This trail is rated as expert or advanced and is not suitable for beginners. Even intermediate riders will find it demanding due to its length (26-27 miles), significant elevation loss (7,000-8,000 feet), and technical sections. Riders need strong bike handling skills and good fitness. The initial climb to Burro Pass is at high elevation, and the Porcupine Rim section is particularly technical.

The best time to ride is typically late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October). The upper sections in the La Sal Mountains can be snow-covered until late spring, and the lower desert sections can be extremely hot in summer. Always check current trail conditions before heading out, as mountain weather can be unpredictable.

The trail begins high in the La Sal Mountains, and due to its point-to-point nature and significant elevation loss, shuttle services are highly recommended. Most riders use a shuttle to reach the upper trailheads, allowing for a largely downhill experience back towards Moab. Parking is typically available at the shuttle pick-up points in Moab.

The Whole Enchilada is located within the Manti-La Sal National Forest. Generally, there are no specific permits required for day-use mountain biking on this trail, nor are there entrance fees for the National Forest itself. However, it's always a good idea to check with the local Forest Service office for any current regulations or advisories before your ride.

The trail offers an extraordinary variety of terrain, transitioning through multiple ecological zones. You'll encounter tight alpine switchbacks, steep sandstone rollers, and technical redrock sections. The upper parts feature narrow singletrack with sharp rocks and slippery roots. As you descend, it includes fast and flowy singletrack, smooth slickrock, and portions of old jeep roads. The Porcupine Rim section is known for ledges, swooping turns, and tricky drops.

The route is packed with stunning scenery. You'll experience alpine views in the La Sal Mountains, expansive canyonland vistas, and dramatic cliffs. Key viewpoints include Castleton Valley View and the View of the Green Valley from Upper Porcupine Singletrack. The journey concludes near the Colorado River, offering unique perspectives of the iconic Moab landscape.

While dogs are generally allowed in the Manti-La Sal National Forest, specific regulations may apply to certain trails or sections. Given the technical and challenging nature of The Whole Enchilada, it is generally not recommended for dogs, especially in the more remote and difficult sections like Porcupine Rim. If you do bring a dog, they must be on a leash, and you are responsible for packing out all waste.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Moab Canyon Pathway, ADT - Utah - R - Seg 1, Kokopelli's Trail, Porcupine Rim 4x4 Trail, and Porcupine Rim Single Track.

As part of the Manti-La Sal National Forest, riders should adhere to Leave No Trace principles. This includes staying on designated trails, packing out all trash, respecting wildlife, and being prepared for backcountry conditions. Always check for fire restrictions or temporary closures before your ride. Be aware that the trail transitions through different land management areas, so rules may vary slightly.

The estimated duration for this route is around 4 hours and 10 minutes for an experienced mountain biker. However, actual ride times can vary significantly based on skill level, fitness, trail conditions, and how often you stop to enjoy the views. Many riders plan for a half to full day adventure, especially considering shuttle logistics and breaks.

Given the trail's length, remoteness, and varying conditions, you should bring plenty of water (more than you think you'll need), high-energy snacks, a bike repair kit (including spare tubes, pump, and multi-tool), first-aid supplies, sun protection (sunscreen, hat), layers of clothing for temperature changes, and a reliable navigation device. A helmet is essential.