The best traffic-free bike rides in Utah

Utah offers over 30 dedicated routes for traffic-free gravel biking, ranging from easy to difficult. These trails allow you to explore the state's diverse landscapes, from red rock deserts to alpine forests, without encountering vehicle traffic.

You'll find a remarkable variety of terrain on Utah's traffic-free gravel routes. Expect everything from hard-packed gravel and dirt forest service roads to fire roads and less technical single tracks. The landscape shifts dramatically, offering views of towering mountains, expansive red rock deserts, and lush alpine forests.

The best time largely depends on the elevation of your chosen route. Spring and fall generally offer pleasant temperatures across the state. For higher elevation trails in the Wasatch or Uinta Mountains, summer is ideal. Lower desert routes, especially those in southern Utah, are best enjoyed in cooler shoulder seasons to avoid intense summer heat.

Yes, Utah has options suitable for beginners looking for traffic-free gravel experiences. The Union Pacific Rail Trail and Round Valley Loop, for example, offers a moderate ride with mostly gentle gradients, making it a great choice to get started.

Absolutely. Experienced riders will find plenty of challenging, traffic-free gravel routes. Trails like the Mesa Road to Hurricane Mesa – Smith Mesa Road loop from Virgin offer significant elevation gains and longer distances, providing a demanding yet rewarding experience through stunning landscapes.

Yes, several traffic-free gravel routes in Utah are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. The Daves Hollow Loop is a great example, offering a scenic circular ride. Another option is the Navajo Lake Loop Trail, which provides beautiful views around the lake.

Utah's traffic-free gravel trails often lead to breathtaking natural wonders. Depending on your chosen route, you might encounter the surreal hoodoos of Bryce Canyon, the dramatic sandstone cliffs of Zion, or the vast expanses of Canyonlands. Specific highlights include viewpoints like Sunset Point and Sunrise Point, or the iconic Thor’s Hammer (hoodoo).

For those seeking longer adventures, Utah offers extended traffic-free gravel routes. The Hastings Pass loop from Delle is a significant ride, covering nearly 50 kilometers. Many routes can also be linked or extended using forest service roads to create multi-day excursions.

The komoot community highly rates gravel biking in Utah, with an average score of 4.1 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the unparalleled scenic beauty, the feeling of solitude on remote trails, and the diverse terrain that keeps rides exciting. The ability to explore iconic landscapes like red rock canyons and high alpine forests without vehicle interference is a major draw.

Yes, several regions stand out. The Park City area, for instance, offers trails like the Union Pacific Rail Trail. Beaver County is also recognized for its fantastic gravel routes that transition from high alpine to desert landscapes. Additionally, areas around the Mighty Five National Parks often have surrounding gravel roads that provide stunning, low-traffic access to the region's unique geology.

Absolutely. Many traffic-free gravel routes traverse areas rich in Utah's unique geology. You can find trails that offer glimpses of the famous red rock formations, hoodoos, and canyons. While specific routes vary, the general region provides access to sights reminiscent of Bryce Canyon's amphitheaters or the dramatic landscapes of Capitol Reef National Park.