Slickrock Bike Trail

Mountain biker rides the Slickrock Bike Trail across orange sandstone in Arches National Park.

Mission Brief: Slickrock Trail is a world-famous biking destination; foot traffic is allowed but the terrain favors bikes and hazards lurk for those on foot. The 10.5-mile loop climbs about 1,962 feet, across 95% slickrock. For bikers, expect a Technical Scramble; for hikers, the route is challenging but doable with care. High reward for the effort.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 10.5
Route Type: Loop with out-and-back lead-in
Difficulty Level: Technical Scramble for bikes; Moderate for hikers
Elevation Gain Feet: 1962

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 10.5
Route Type: Loop with out-and-back lead-in
Difficulty Level: Technical Scramble for bikes; Moderate for hikers
Elevation Gain Feet: 1962
Estimated Time: 3-4 hours (bike); similar or longer for hikers
Trail Surface: 95% slickrock, with some sandy sections
Trail Features: Navajo Sandstone slickrock
Some sandy sections
Yellow-dashed hazard areas
Desert terrain with long vistas
Trail Highlights: Iconic Navajo Sandstone formations, distant La Sal Mountains, and glimpses of the Colorado River

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: Sand Flats Recreation Area, Sand Flats Road, northeast of Moab, Utah
Parking Lot Size: Large, dedicated
Parking Fill Time: Full during peak seasons; arrive early
Shuttle Required: 0
Shuttle Details: Private Moab-area shuttles operate for riders; not mandatory

Permits & conditions

Permits Required: Yes
Permit Details: Pay at the Sand Flats Recreation Area entrance booth. Vehicle: $5 1-day; $10 7-day. Bicycle/Motorcycle/Shuttle Van: $2/day; $5 7 days. Annual Pass: $20.
Fees: Private Vehicle: $5 (1-day), $10 (7-day); Bicycle/Motorcycle/Shuttle Van: $2/day, $5 (7 days); Annual Pass: $20
Trail Status: Open
Seasonal Closures: Ice may be present from late December through February; mud not a major issue, but wet conditions make rock slick

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 1
Water Sources: None on trail; carry all water

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Falls and injuries
Dehydration and heat exhaustion
Slippery conditions when wet
Motorcycles and 4x4s on adjacent trails
Exposure with steep drop-offs
Spotty cell service
Hazard Details: High-speed vehicle traffic crosses the area; sections marked with yellow dashes indicate particular hazards; rock becomes very slick when wet; no water sources along the route
Cell Service: Spotty to non-existent
Crowd Level: High
Peak Crowd Times: Spring and Fall; weekends and holidays
Best Season: Spring and Fall
Best Time To Visit: Spring and Fall; start early to beat heat and crowds.
Tips Advice: Carry 3-4 liters of water per person; no water sources on the trail.
Wear sun protection and plan for heat; shade is scarce.
For bikers, ensure brakes and tires are solid; for hikers, sturdy footwear and trekking poles help.
High reward for the effort.

More details

Park Area: Moab, Utah (Sand Flats Recreation Area)
Trail Markers: Trail markers present; yellow-dash hazard indicators highlight risky sections; bikes have dedicated routing
Biking Allowed: Yes — primary use is mountain biking
Shade Level: Full sun exposure; little shade
Emergency Contacts: Call 911; Arches/NPS rangers; local Moab emergency services
Map Recommended: 1
Snow Dates: Ice may be present December–February
Mud Season: Wet conditions will make rock slick
Bug Season: Generally not significant
Insider Tips: For bikers, ride the practice loop first to gauge skill.
For hikers, be aware you are entering a high-traffic, rock-dominated environment.
Family Friendly Notes: Not ideal for young children due to exposure, high speeds, and rock-scramble terrain
Nearby Facilities: Vault toilets at trailhead; large parking lot; Sand Flats Recreation Area entrance fees apply
Review Summary: Slickrock Trail delivers a demanding desert circuit that tests balance, pace, and hydration strategy. Expect crowds and aggressive terrain; come prepared with water and sun protection. The payoff is in the rock-scale landscape and far-reaching desert views.

Location

Photos

Rider on a mountain bike navigates slickrock terrain along the Slickrock Bike Trail in Arches National Park.

Slickrock Bike Trail sign at Arches National Park with red rock formations in the background.

Frequently asked questions

Are there water sources on Slickrock?

No. Carry 3-4 liters per person; plan for the desert conditions and heat.

Is this trail safe for solo hikers?

Yes, with caution: exposure, potential vehicle interactions, and spotty cell service mean you should inform someone of your plan and carry a plan for emergencies.

Do I need a permit?

Yes. You must pay the Sand Flats Recreation Area entry fee at the entrance booth.

Is the trail open to motorcycles?

Yes, the area accommodates motorcycles and mountain bikes; stay alert for cross-traffic and maintain spacing.