Chad grinds up the slickrock, past dinosaur footprints

Klondike Bluffs Trail
The Klondike Bluffs Trail is a modest climb, but isn't too technically difficult. It's a good trail for someone who's in good shape, but is inexperienced in mountain biking. It makes an excellent first "slickrock adventure." Round trip, it's 9.6 miles on the bike and 1 mile on foot (bikes aren't allowed off-road in Arches National Park, so you hike the last half mile). Highlights of this ride include dinosaur footprints, fun and not-too-tough rock to practice on, and a fabulous view of Klondike Bluffs at the end of the ride. The trail climbs 800 feet in four miles.

Rockpiles (cairns) and painted spots on the rock mark the slickrock route. Trail signposts indicate the proper route where minor doubletracks fork off. (When in doubt, continue on what appears to be the main route.)
The trail begins with just over a mile on modestly rough double-track with a few short sand digs. Then it covers 2-1/2 miles on slickrock (mostly fairly smooth Kayenta sandstone), and a mile more rocky road. At the end of the road is a short section of single-track that climbs to the border of Arches National Park. At the end of the bike trail, a 1/2-mile foot trail takes you to a breath-taking view of the Klondike Bluffs of Arches National Park.
If you want a longer ride, you can start at the highway. (Our trail description assumes you'll drive the first 2.8 miles of graded road, then unload your bikes at the gate to the double-track trail.)

Awesome

Klondike Cliffs Trail Map

Getting there: Starting at the Colorado River, drive 15 miles north from Moab. Look for a turnout on the right. There will usually be cars parked there. Go through the gate and drive 2.7 miles. Keep left at the fork. At 2.8 miles, park your car at the gate and begin your ride.

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Trail conditions change, and the layout of a trail may change without notice. Use this trail guide at your own risk.