Moab Slickrock Bike Trail 4WD Loop
Sandstone grip where bikes meet Jeeps
The Slickrock Trail earned its reputation as a mountain bike mecca, but the 4WD practice loop delivers the same grip-and-slide dance across Navajo sandstone that feels like driving on another planet. This 2.3-mile loop peels off from Sand Flats Road, climbing over exposed rock domes with white dotted lines marking the route across seemingly impossible angles. The trail’s painted navigation dots guide you through roller-coaster terrain where traction comes from sandstone’s natural grip rather than traditional tread patterns.
Moderate difficulty requires high-clearance 4WD with low range for steep sandstone climbs and descents that can hit 45-degree angles. Stock vehicles handle it fine with careful line choice and momentum management. Best tackled March through May and September through November when temperatures won’t cook you or your radiator. No permits needed, but the $15 Sand Flats Recreation Area fee applies. Dispersed camping available throughout the area. You’ll gain serious respect for sandstone’s traction properties and understand why Moab remains the Southwest’s 4WD proving ground.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Rock |
| Features | Camping, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 2.3 mi / 3.7 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 4700 ft |
| Best season | March-May, September-November |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Moab, Utah |
| Land manager | Grand County |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock 4Runner or Wrangler handle this without any mods?
Yes — a stock high-clearance 4WD is the stated minimum and it holds here. The slickrock surface is grippy enough that traction isn't the issue; the challenge is pick lines and your comfort level on exposed rock shelves.
Is the trail rideable in summer or should I avoid July and August?
Avoid summer. Moab hits 100°F+ and the black sandstone radiates brutal heat. Best windows are March–May and September–November — cooler temps and better grip when the rock isn't baking.
Do I need a permit or is there a fee to run this loop?
No permit required, no fee to drive the 4WD loop. Grand County manages it, so standard Leave No Trace rules apply — pack out your trash and don't camp in sensitive cryptobiotic soil areas.
What's the hardest section and what makes it sketchy?
The exposed slickrock dome crossings are where people get uncomfortable — steep off-camber tilts with no guardrails and a lot of air below. At only 2.3 miles it's short, but slow down and walk sections before you commit if anything looks sketchy from the seat.
Is there water available on trail, and how close is the nearest gas and resupply?
No water on trail — carry everything you need. Moab is roughly 3–4 miles away with full gas, groceries, and gear shops, so resupply is easy before or after the run.
Trail track
No GPX track for this trail yet. If you've driven it and have a track, contribute below.
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