The best gravel rides around Arches

There are over 35 gravel biking routes available in and around Arches National Park, offering a diverse range of experiences for cyclists. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars.

The gravel biking routes in Arches National Park cater to various skill levels. You'll find 3 easy routes, 16 moderate routes, and 20 difficult routes. The unpaved sections, such as Salt Valley and Willow Springs roads, are known for challenging conditions like washboards, deep sand, and rocky terrain, which can be particularly demanding for gravel bikes.

Arches National Park is a high desert environment, experiencing hot summers and cool winters. The most comfortable times for gravel biking are typically spring (March to May) and fall (September to November), when temperatures are milder. Summers can be extremely hot, and while winters are cool, some routes might be affected by minimal precipitation or colder conditions.

While biking is restricted to paved and unpaved roads, some paved sections offer smoother riding suitable for families. However, be aware that cyclists must share roads with vehicles, and dedicated bike lanes are often absent. For a more adventurous family, some of the easier unpaved routes might be an option, but be prepared for potentially challenging surfaces like washboards or sand.

Within Arches National Park, pets are generally permitted on paved roads and in parking lots, but they are not allowed on unpaved roads, trails, or in the backcountry. If you plan to bike with your dog, you would need to stick to paved sections and ensure your dog is on a leash. Always check the latest park regulations on the official NPS website for specific rules regarding pets.

Gravel biking in Arches offers an unparalleled view of the park's unique geology. You'll witness over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, including iconic formations like Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, and Double Arch. Beyond the arches, you can marvel at features such as Balanced Rock, the towering monoliths of Park Avenue and Courthouse Towers, and the fins of Devils Garden, all sculpted by millions of years of erosion.

While the routes themselves offer stunning natural beauty, you can explore nearby points of interest. For example, you might encounter the Golbey canal bridge or the Sandstone boulders at Les Archettes. The town of Épinal itself is a highlight, featuring the impressive The Basilica of Saint-Maurice and the historic Fort du Parmont.

For those seeking longer rides, routes like the Golbey canal bridge – Canal bridge over the Moselle loop from Épinal cover approximately 78.7 km with over 800 meters of elevation gain. Another substantial option is the Bouzey Lake – Lake Bouzey loop from Épinal, spanning about 63.9 km.

Yes, many of the gravel biking routes in the region are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Single sympa – Épinal loop from Épinal and the Lake Bouzey – Single sympa loop from Épinal, providing convenient options for exploration.

Parking is available at various points within Arches National Park. However, during peak seasons, parking lots can fill up quickly. It's advisable to arrive early, especially if you plan to access popular trailheads. Some unpaved roads might offer alternative access points, but always check park regulations for designated parking areas.

While a general entrance fee is required to enter Arches National Park, specific permits for gravel biking are not typically needed beyond the park entrance fee. However, always verify the latest requirements on the official National Park Service website (nps.gov) before your visit, as regulations can change.

The unpaved roads, such as Salt Valley and Willow Springs, offer a true gravel biking adventure but come with significant challenges. Cyclists often encounter washboards, deep sand, and rocky sections. These conditions can be demanding for gravel bikes and may necessitate dismounting and walking your bike through particularly difficult stretches. Some sections might even be more suitable for mountain bikes.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 15 reviews. Reviewers often praise the breathtaking scenery, the unique red rock formations, and the immersive experience of exploring the high desert landscape. The variety of terrain, from paved sections to challenging unpaved roads, also contributes to a rewarding adventure.