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Slickrock Mountain Bike Trail
Moab, Utah
MTB TRAIL STATS
Avg Rating:   |
52 trail reviews |
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Status: updated 2/1/12 by kevinwarner |
Difficulty:  Advanced |
| Length: 12 miles | Global Rank: #5 |
| Tread: Other | Configuration: Loop |
| Ridden: 498 | Wishlist: 142 |
| Avg. Speed: 3.86 mph | Avg. Time: 2hr 28min |
| Elevation Gain/Loss: +2,738/-2,260 ft |
Directions:
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Description: This trail is probably the most well known mountain bike trail in the country. That being said, it is not necessarily the BEST trail in the country. It is definitely unique due to the tread (rock) and the desolate landscape that surrounds the area. The trail is full of short steep climbs and descents and will really work your legs out. Plan on taking a few hours (3-4) to ride the loop all the way around. If you plan on hitting this trail in the summer (like we foolishly did), be sure to get there real early before it starts getting unbearably hot. Don't even think of trying to do this trail in the evening because it will still be just as hot (due to the enormous heat capacity of the rocks). Again, the trail is unique and is perfect for mountain bikers looking for a trail that is totally different from anywhere else they have ridden.
Description: This trail is probably the most well known mountain bike trail in the country. That being said, it is not necessarily the BEST trail in the country. It is definitely unique due to the tread (rock) and the desolate landscape that surrounds the area. The trail is full of short steep climbs and descents and will really work your legs out. Plan on taking a few hours (3-4) to ride the loop all the way around. If you plan on hitting this trail in the summer (like we foolishly did), be sure to get there real early before it starts getting unbearably hot. Don't even think of trying to do this trail in the evening because it will still be just as hot (due to the enormous heat capacity of the rocks). Again, the trail is unique and is perfect for mountain bikers looking for a trail that is totally different from anywhere else they have ridden.
added in 2003 by 
SIMILAR TRAILS
Riders who liked this mountain bike trail also liked:Porcupine Rim in Moab
Wasatch Crest in Salt Lake City
Snow Park Loop in Park City
TRAIL REVIEWS review this trail
reviewed by vbeckman74 on December 25, 2011
This trail is fun, but it can be very challenging. Don't take newbies! They will not appreciate what you have done to them. Slickrock has to be ridden one foot at a time. It requires a lot of focus to keep from becoming part of the rock. You will crash. You will bleed. You will have a blast.
Similar Trail: Good luck finding one like this.
reviewed by stumpyfsr on November 16, 2011
Like its being said before, this trail is unique. Slickrock gives you so much grip you'll never get anywhere else. Those steeeeep climbs will give a lot of work out and a lot of fun from the same steeep downhills. Can't say it's the most technical trail in the area but there are no other trails like this. Must ride. And watch out for a cactus thorns.
reviewed by ukraine on November 15, 2011
To understand and have fun on Slick Rock you have to ride it a few times. I personaly hated it when rode it first time (I was a beginner). I came back to Moab 2 years later and had blast! Great fun, super grip. pretty steep grades.
reviewed by vyrpalmeris on October 27, 2011
I saw the review below from Roxy&Yeti and I couldn't resist the urge to get on here and defend one of my favorite trails. Just because he/she can't handle a trail that requires short bursts (no terrain like this in the UK? really? sarcasm here) doesn't mean that "only elite bikers" will enjoy this. I personally prefer this style of riding! The short bursts of strength, the way the trail requires an active riding style, and the quick ups and downs are extremely fun to me. For Heaven's sake, why do people try to ride this in the summer? Its 115 degrees and feels 30 degrees hotter because the rocks retain the heat! Go in spring or fall and Moab weather is as good as it gets. The Slickrock Trail is not for beginners or downhill lovers. It is a technical challenge trail and it will challenge the best. If you come with the right expectations at the right time of year with a decent chain (the cheapest SRAM you can find won't do), this is one of the best two-wheeled experiences you will ever have.
Similar Trail: Amasa Back, Poison Spider Mesa, Sovereign
reviewed by jfigel76 on October 25, 2011
Yup, it is the most popular trail, but not the best trail. Old school trails straight up and straight down. I went on a real windy, cold day and the exposure was spooking me a bit being from the east coast. Nevertherless, I completed in about 2.5 hours. Lots of dabs and dismounts. $5 entrance fee for the day.
reviewed by DurangoMtBikeTours on October 13, 2011
I don't see what all the haters are talking about. The Slick Rock Trail is awesome. Of course if you come and try to ride it in the middle of the summer you will suffer. Only 3 hrs drive from Durango, I get over and ride this trail at least once a year if not more. I only go in late September, October, November, March or April. Other than those months, to hot and to crowded. Nothing better than camping at Sand Flats campground, waking up at dawn, riding a few hundred feet to the trail head and bombing the rock. I usually finish the loop in under 2 hours easy. There are certainly more epic rides like Porcupine Rim, and White Rim, but Slick Rock is a rail I never get tired of riding. The climbs are great, and the scenary is spectacular.
Similar Trail: Raider Ridge
reviewed by speeedracer27 on October 3, 2011
Fun ride. Nothing like anything I've experienced before. Much better trails in the area, but you have to ride this to appreciate the terrain. Very hot, no cover, so bring plenty of water.
reviewed by knoxjw on September 29, 2011
A must do for any MT Bike fan. Not the best trail in the area...but lots of fun
reviewed by Roxy&Yeti on September 8, 2011
WAY. WAY. overrated. And I've been around a bit. Scenery is stupendous. TONS of mecca-goers from France, Austria, various places in South America, Germany, Denmark- all in the space of the two days we were there. Every person I talked to that finished the ride said the same thing: NOT WHAT I EXPECTED. I was expecting this really fun, really amazing swoopy-whoopy up down roll-around on some slickrock. The usual dose of tough climbs and fast descents. There are an elite few of elite mountain bikers that will actually ride this and truly enjoy it, and not just front and rave because it's the thing to do about Moab. The ascents are short and of an extreme grade. The kind you have to completely change your center of gravity for- get up out of your seat, put your butt in front of the saddle, scrunch tiny into your cockpit, and give it your all on. If you don't give it your all, you WILL fall backwards, because if you put your foot out, well, there's just no stopping yourself on 40% grade slick rock. I gave it my all and broke a practically new SRAM chain and that made for a long walk back. The descents have the same extreme angles, and a few of them have trick bottoms with worn out depressions or sand-piles that WILL grab your wheel and slam you if you don't avoid them. The heat is oppressive and you MUST carry two bladders, at least 200 oz of water to be really safe. And get some of those camelbak electrolyte pellets to be on the safe side. If you're only in town one day, don't pick this ride as the one to do. This is the ride you say you rode and loved, but secretly you're just grateful you survived and you wonder afterwards why you put yourself through all of that for an otherwise pretty mediocre ride in terms of flow and fun. If you're going to be in the area, go to Fruita instead. READ: GO TO FRUITA INSTEAD. AWESOME and HUGE set of trails, way, way fun, but equally challenging if you really want an extreme-advanced rider challenge. Great camping too. :)
* Review edited 9/8/2011
Similar Trail: Any trail at Moab beside this one.
reviewed by david_darling on July 27, 2011
Yes, this is a very awesome trail. The amount of technical moves required to clean is countless. Awesome challenge from the very start. Of all the places I have ridden, Slickrock could be the most demanding of them all. My first time in the early 90's seemed much easier than today.
Similar Trail: Gooseberry Mesa
reviewed by delphinide on June 11, 2011
I definitely recommend riding this in May or October if you plan to make a day of it. If you go in the summer, leave the TH @ dawn and bring at least 100oz of water! Keep in mind that the weather can and does change drastically in every season. I love this trail, and like me, if you have had the pleasure of riding this several times over the years you take delight in realizing that you get just a little bit better on it everytime you go out...not unlike the 2x4 and cinderblock ramps we put our Huffys over as kids. There is always areas to improve your skills on out here. Most people do Porcupine, which I love, but make sure to check out Amasa Back and Sovereign trail too.
Similar Trail: there's nothing else quite like it that is 'official'
reviewed by PaulSmith on May 24, 2011
Had heard about it for years and then found out first hand last May. Crazy how tires just "stick"...had a blast even though it was hot and windy...
reviewed by abegold on May 11, 2011
This trail is a hard workout with slow progress thru the loop. Armor is suggested cause the rock is hard. Traction is outstanding. Unique riding experience, expect to sweat when warm.
Similar Trail: Bartlett Wash, Goosebery Mesa
reviewed by dngrcnnn on May 3, 2011
If you have a mountain bike, you've heard of the Slickrock trail. Arguably one of the most popular trails in the country, this is a ride darn near impossible to replicate. The ride is 95% on smooth rock, with a few awesome sandy spots you burn into and then belatedly realize deep sand is kind of hard to bike through if you aren't paying attention. I didn't think this was too awfully difficult for the BD rating. There are some very short but steep climbs and decents that you might end up hiking, but I didn't find it to be a "pucker up" type of technical ride, because everything is wide open. It isn't a trail you should start out mountain biking on, but you also aren't hitting narrow chutes or tight twisty "singletrack," so it is a bit more on the Intermediate side. If you're in the area, this is the type of trail that you have to do just to have done it. Is it the best trail in Moab? Probably not, but it's fun, has some great vistas, and isn't overly difficult. Just make sure you tighten your bike up before you ride, because the solid rock trail is pretty jarring, and you really don't want anything falling off out there.
reviewed by maddslacker on March 15, 2011
This trail really needs no introduction... it is almost all rough sandstone with a course, grippy surface. There a couple of short sandy sections. Either direction is fun, and you will go up and down inclines you didn't think possible. Try the Practice Loop to see what you're in for. It's 2.5 miles whereas the whole trail is 10
reviewed by Haebe04(WSC) on January 24, 2011
Great technical riding that will challenge most mountain bikers.
Similar Trail: Anything in Moab or Fruita
reviewed by pernicious on December 6, 2010
Not the greatest, not the worst. I'd rather do Porcipine Rim, Flat Pass or half a dozen others.
reviewed by nspb001 on October 4, 2010
Really fun trail, kicks your butt because its so hot out. I dont understand the hype, it has beautiful scenery, but its totally barren... Take away the fact that your riding purely on slickrock, the trail is basically the exact same as most midwest and eastern XC trails, steep short burst to the top, quick descent down, rinse repeat. Its a lot of fun, but ive ridden better trails in the Smokey Mountains, like Tsali. Bring lots of water! Bring extra tubes!
Similar Trail: Utah riding us pretty unique so i dont know.
reviewed by drlg on September 25, 2010
Awesome! One-of-a-kind scenery, great riding, world-famous. Have to do ride.
reviewed by stillfat on August 2, 2010
Over-hyped, overrated, crowded, blah, blah blah... This trail is great and there's nothing like it. Yes, better trails certainly exist (even in a 10 mile radius) but that shouldn't deter from rating it. Sweet.
reviewed by rharper33 on June 9, 2010
Personally, I don't understand the hype over this trail. I must agree that it was unique terrain but that's it. I rode the practice loop and then, hoping it would get better, did the main loop. Desolate landscape and nothing but down one rock, through a sandy bottom, then up another rock. I thought Porcupine Rim was 10 times better!
reviewed by tomemogus on May 2, 2010
I thought this ride was very unique and fun. It definitely took a lot of energy to complete the whole thing. This trail has a lot of steep technical and strenuous climbs as well as some fun and technical downhills. It's not hard to imagine this slickrock trail used to be sand dunes. This trail is definitely worth riding once in your life.
Similar Trail: Gooseberry Mesa, Porcupine Rim
reviewed by tontonuy5 on November 16, 2009
A really unique, beautiful trail. Went to the vista points along the way and it was well worth it. Be aware of the weather conditions. Definitely not for beginners. Bring all your necessities. Be prepared.
reviewed by tysande on October 16, 2009
Fun, Tiring, and spectacular! Some great scenic views of Moab and the river.
* Review edited 10/16/2009
reviewed by cpadebo on October 13, 2009
While I'm not the most experienced mountain biker I can tell you that this trail is trully unique. It's like riding on giant boulders of solid rock melded together with lots of ups and down. Be prepared for a workout as the climbs are challenging. I love how many of the downhills have an uphill waiting at the end so you can really let the bike fly down the hill.
reviewed by kuala_tahan on June 1, 2009
Real cool trail, never ridden anything like it anywhere before. Not too technical, lots of quick up and downs, short steep climbs and short steep descents. Highly recommended, try not to ride it mid-day, the rock turns the trail into an oven. Go morning or later afternoon
reviewed by COGator00 on May 20, 2009
SLICKROCK!! Intense med-short burst climbs with roller coaster fun downhills. Trail is not highly technical (no big step-up/down) but does require a high level of fitness if you want to actually ride up the climbs. If you go to Moab and don't go here you're cheating yourself out of one great rewarding challenge! The views of Arches and of the looming Porcupine make this trail a must for all skill levels (bring your H2O!!).
Similar Trail: Chutes and Ladders for the burst/up 'n down climbing required, otherwise nothing else like it!
reviewed by TMWJR777 on April 8, 2009
Don't know what all the fuss is about this ride. Been there and rode it once, that was enough. I guess it's cool if you are into the whole "work out" part of riding. I myself didn't care for it all that much. Climb for 3 or 4 minutes, downhill for 30 seconds and repeat for 11 miles. Not my idea of**ood time, I'd rather get my climbing over with, then bomb back down to the car. To each his own I suppose. Gotta do it at least once just to say you have I guess.
Similar Trail: Anything else in Moab(Amasa Back, Moab Rim, Porcupine Rim, Bartlett Wash, Sovereign Sngletrk)
reviewed by BFD on August 3, 2008
My brother and I hit this trail several years ago and we still talk about how much fun we had to this day...Totally worth it the drive from just about anywhere. Take plenty of water.
reviewed by steve32300 on July 11, 2008
You deffinatly get traction here and I can attest to it.I am a clydesdale rider at 280 and until I invested into a rachet style rear hub, I broke 2 pawl body's and a chain all in one trip to slick rock.Never made it more than 2 or 3 mile's out on the trail before haveing to walk back to the truck to go back to town to get the bike fixed.Now that I have a new rear wheel and hub that can take that kind of abuse,I cant wait to get back there.
Similar Trail: I dont think there is another like this one.
reviewed by JackPompanoBeach on July 11, 2008
I don't know why so many people seem to be down on Moab. This trail kills! If you are into thrills, there are some wicked downhills, turns, and the views are breathtaking. I think guys are down on it because the steep climbs are pretty taxing, and there is a greater chance of maybe getting hurt since its all solid rock. This is by far one of my favorite rides, and is tons of fun!
Similar Trail: Gooseberry Mesa
reviewed by NoTrace on April 19, 2008
Get your slicks on so you stick and ride some wild angles on this trail. The rock is like sticky tape (to both tires and skin) so you can go nearly straight up and down. Everyone one should do this ride at least once.
reviewed by Brannam on February 2, 2008
Bring all the water you can carry, the trails in Moab will work every part of your body and mind during the summer. Slick rock has some great drops and even better climbs. The veiws are great and the rocks will bleed you when you go down. No MNT Biker should pass up a chance to ride this route.
Similar Trail: Mmmm, nothing!
reviewed by Terry_Tiessen on November 26, 2007
Slickrock rocks! This is some of the craziest riding in the world. You don't even realize how good the traction can be on this trail. I definitely climbed the steepest I ever have on Slickrock. The views are great too. Natural Selection viewpoint is awesome! Even when the trail is wet, the trsaction is incredible. We went in the heat of day in mid September and it was about 90 degrees...but it's a dry heat..yeah right. I finished off my 100 ounce Camelbak, and also drank most of a bottle. This is a trail that all mountain bikers need to try. I wish I could make a slickrock slurry and have my own slickrock at home in Oregon. Awesome ride!
Similar Trail: Sovereign & Amasa Back
reviewed by Siberian on October 9, 2007
This trail is always a curiosity. You will see people on cruisers tooling around with no problem, and at the same time you will see veterans fearing to go over the first steep hill. This is as much a psychological trail as it is a physical one...but amazing once you get the hang of it. Rated a 4 only because there isn't much variety. You are either going up or down, both of which require concentration and effort.
reviewed by skibum on October 8, 2007
Some choose to decry this trail as overrated, saying it's a one-trick pony. That may be so, but it's a heckuva good trick! You can do things here you'd never dream of on any other surface. In addition to the fanatastic slickrock, the views are magnificent. This place is truly unique and worth every bit of the hype. Not for beginners or the unprepared, however. Bring water and avoid midday. The 10 miles will be among the most taxing 10 you've done.
* Review edited 1/7/2010
Similar Trail: Porcupine Rim
reviewed by dougsmith on September 22, 2007
Tough trail especially if you go counter-clockwise. Very hot and very little shade. Trails give great traction, like riding on sandpaper. A trail to do put on your to ride list.
Similar Trail: Only other rides in Utah are anything like it.
reviewed by Russp17 on June 29, 2007
Sweet ride, good views, I loved it so much to see, nothing is quite like riding slick rock
Similar Trail: nothing compares
reviewed by abharper on June 15, 2007
Slickrock is fun. This is a great trail!! The hardest thing for me was how steep the ups and downs were. My husband did the whole loop while I goofed around and practiced on some short sections and enjoyed the view. It was fun, I'd recommend it for any level rider, just take it easy if you have nerves like mine! :) We went in March, good time of year to be there.
Similar Trail: Klondike Bluffs has some slick rock too and is good for beginners.
reviewed by arnolda14 on June 6, 2007
This is our Mecca. You haven't earned the badge of a true Mtn. Biker until you ride this. Doesn't matter how good you are or how long you've been riding or how many hours you've put in the saddle or how much you love it. You have to respect the Slickrock, make the pilgrimage and pay it hommage. Very few people would say this is their favorite trail, but it is a helluva ride and it is THE ride, so put away your clown suit and go ride this thing.
reviewed by Lancefan on December 2, 2006
You have not mountain biked, or for that matter lived, unless you have at some time riden some of slickrock. It is step and technical and almost impossible for even the best riders to ride all of it, but this trail is all about the experience.
reviewed by odogtriever on May 11, 2006
As good as advertised. Very crowded, but like no other trail.
Similar Trail: Goosebury mesa near Zion
reviewed by xtrsmith on April 10, 2006
sometimes overcrowded. may I recommend any of moab's other trails? most of them rock.
reviewed by gab26 on April 2, 2006
World famous slickrock what more can you say. Do it early or late to avoid the crowds and heat during the summer. To me either the hard loop or easy loop does not make any difference go either way and you will enjoy it.
reviewed by c3667 on November 21, 2005
This was a great trail!!! I had soo much fun . climbing was easy to do on what is basically a 11 mile paved trail. (with extreme angles and obsticals). I plan on doing this trail at least once a year!!!
reviewed by rocketbracket on November 14, 2005
definietly unique trail with awesome scenery. very tough for me a Florida rider used to getting a little rest on flat straights. no flat straights here. Slickrock loop requires constant concentration. short climbs up and downhills will work your legs to the max. make sure to hydrate well before and during the ride and have your bike brakes and your fitness level in very good shape. town of Moab and people there are also great.
reviewed by epoderom on July 16, 2005
Pretty tired the day I intended to go, but decided to go anyway, very glad I did. . . . .other trails in Moab have slickrock also but none as much as this trail. You can get into some wicked angles
reviewed by woodiebikes777 on May 4, 2005
Great trail, it's amazing to think you are riding on petrified sand dunes. Watch out, A Jeep trail crosses the bike trail a few times. There are some sandy areas which make it kinda hard.
reviewed by Pedro_Carvalho on December 23, 2004
An unique trail. Everybody should ride Slick Rock, especially in the Fall.
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