Broken Mesa - Ice House Loop

This trail is generally rated as difficult, often considered a black diamond (expert) trail. It demands solid technical skills due to its challenging terrain, including a demanding initial climb with basalt rocks and loose sections, followed by a long, technical downhill. The section known as "The Cut" is particularly advanced, steep, and rocky.

The terrain is varied and challenging. You'll encounter switchbacks, frequent basalt rocks, and loose "babyhead" rocks on the uphill sections. The long downhill on the Ice House trail is fast but includes intermittent pumice boulders. A particularly advanced section, "The Cut," is very steep, loose, and rocky, requiring excellent bike handling.

The trail can generally be ridden year-round, but the prime season extends from March through early December. While it can be hot in the summer, the cooler months offer more comfortable riding conditions.

Specific trailhead parking information is best found on local trail maps or by checking the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area website. Generally, access points are available near St. George, Utah, which is the closest major town.

Yes, while the Broken Mesa - Ice House Loop can be ridden as a 15-mile loop, a shorter, shuttled downhill experience is also an option. This allows riders to focus on the exciting 6-mile descent without the demanding initial climb.

The Broken Mesa - Ice House Loop is located within the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area. While specific permits for mountain biking this trail are not typically required, it's always a good idea to check the official Bureau of Land Management (BLM) website for the Red Cliffs NCA for any current regulations, fees, or advisories before your visit.

Regulations regarding dogs can vary within national conservation areas. It's recommended to check the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area's official guidelines regarding pets, including leash requirements, to ensure compliance and a safe experience for everyone.

You'll experience impressive 360-degree views from the broad, treeless mesa, including the Pine Valley Mountains and mesas near Hurricane. A specific highlight along the route is the Viewpoint of Rock Formations. The trail also features "The Cut," a challenging technical downhill section, and traverses juniper forests and recovering wildfire areas.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several other trails. You'll ride parts of the Broken Mesa Rim Trail, Ice House Trail, Middleton Powerline, Yellow Knolls Trail, Cottontail, High Point Trail, Lange's Dugway, Winchester Trail, and Mustang Pass Trail.

Given the trail's difficulty and length, you should bring plenty of water, snacks, a repair kit for your bike, a first-aid kit, and appropriate safety gear including a helmet. Sun protection is also crucial due to the exposed sections. A GPS device or a downloaded map is highly recommended for navigation.

No, this trail is not recommended for beginners. It is rated as difficult (black diamond/expert) due to its technical climbs, rocky terrain, and challenging downhill sections like "The Cut." Riders should have solid technical skills and experience with advanced singletrack.