Slickrock National Recreation Trail
This 10.5-mile loop crosses a scenic and rugged expanse of rolling Navajo Sandstone, the remnant of an ancient desert environment of wind blown sand dunes. Originally established in 1969 by Richard R. Wilson for use by Honda Trail 90s, the trail has become a popular destination for mountain bikes. This ain’t your local park loop — it’s the trail that put Moab on the world map.
The slickrock surface throws you curveballs every turn. The sandstone has a surface much like sandpaper, making it really grippable by the rubber tires of a mountain bike or off-road motorcycle. You’ll climb grades that look impossible until your tires hit that tacky surface. Then you’ll drop into descents that’ll make your brake pads smoke. The Hell’s Revenge 4×4 Trail also crosses the Slickrock Bike Trail six times — watch for jeeps when you’re hammering through the intersections.
The main loop delivers relentless ups and downs — the Natural Selection viewpoint at 7 miles is really cool, and a great place for a rest before you head back to the west and south to complete the loop. Mountain bikers rate the Slickrock Trail as one of the more difficult rides in the Moab area, both technically and cardiovascularly. There’s also a 2.3-mile practice loop, but don’t let the name fool you — it’s nearly as demanding as the main event.
The rock is Navajo Sandstone: 200 million year old petrified sand dunes from the Jurassic Period. You’re riding across ancient history, with views stretching to the La Sal Mountains and Colorado River canyon. This is why people travel across continents to get their tires dirty.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Hard |
|---|---|
| Length (miles) | 10.5 mi |
| Best season | March through November, avoid summer midday heat |
| Minimum vehicle | Mountain bikes and motorcycles only — no four-wheeled vehicles on main trail |
| Nearest town | Moab, Utah |
| Land manager | BLM / Grand County partnership |
| 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
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Frequently asked questions
Can I drive my 4x4 on Slickrock Trail?
No, the main Slickrock Trail is for mountain bikes and motorcycles only. Four-wheeled vehicles are prohibited on the 10.5-mile loop.
Is the trail rideable in summer?
Technically yes, but avoid midday heat from June through August when sandstone temperatures can exceed 120°F. Best riding is March through November with early morning or late afternoon starts in summer.
Do I need permits or pay fees for Slickrock?
No permits required, but there's a $5 day-use fee per vehicle at the trailhead. Annual passes available for $30.
What's the hardest part of the trail?
The steep sandstone climbs and descents with serious exposure — especially the section near Hell's Revenge viewpoint. One mistake means a potentially fatal fall off slickrock ledges.
Is there water available on the trail?
No water sources exist on the trail itself. Bring all water you need — minimum 3 liters per person in cooler months, more in summer heat.