Bears Ears North 5-Day Intermediate Cultural Bike Tour

RIDING TYPE | ■︎ Intermediate
TRIP DURATION | 5-Days
SEASON | May – June / August – September
PRICE | $1,845 pp

Experience an extraordinary Utah guided bike tour through the remote Abajo Mountains, where stunning alpine trails meet the ancient history and Ancestral Puebloan ruins of Bears Ears National Monument. This fully supported, E-bike ready expedition handles every detail from gourmet meals to tent setup, allowing intermediate riders to focus entirely on the breathtaking vistas and deep cultural immersion.

Itineraries are subject to change due to weather, road conditions, rider safety and other factors which may affect the logistics of the adventure.

Road Surface: Dirt roads. Hard packed sediment and clay. Some sandy sections.
Overall Rating: Intermediate
Technical Difficulty: Easy to moderate.
Physical Difficulty: Moderate, some strenuous climbing.
Altitude: 4,000 - 10,000 feet
Biking Mileage: 8–24 miles per day.
Hiking Mileage: One 3 mile hike, one 6 mile hike.
Packing for your trip

Day 1: Ancient Civilizations & House on Fire 

  • We meet in Moab before heading south to begin our journey into history at the Edge of the Cedars Museum.
  • We’ll enjoy scenic rides and hikes to remarkable Ancestral Puebloan ruins like Butler Wash and Mule Canyon, including the famous House on Fire cliff dwelling.
  • We'll set up a comfortable camp, surrounded by the quiet majesty of Bears Ears.
  • Approx. 8 miles riding, 3 miles hiking

Day 2: Canyon Descents & Hidden Ruins

  • An exhilarating descent leads to more spectacular ruins nestled within a primitive canyon, offering a unique opportunity for exploration on foot.
  • This day promises breathtaking vistas and a rewarding climb, all within the stunning Abajo Mountains landscape.
  • Approx. 16 miles riding, 6 miles hiking

Day 3: Elk Ridge Traverse 

  • Today, we ride along the expansive Elk Ridge, traversing diverse terrain on our dirt roads.
  • We'll pass significant landmarks like "The Notch," Duck Lake, and the Gooseberry Ranger Station, with captivating views around every bend.
  • Approx. 24 miles riding

Day 4: Heart of the Abajos & Summit Views 

  • This is a big day featuring the most significant climbing of the trip into the heart of the Abajo Mountains.
  • You'll conquer rewarding ascents to Maverick Point Overlook, Skull and Crossbones Summit, and The Causeway, experiencing some of the most dramatic scenery.
  • Approx. 17 miles riding

Day 5: Downhill to Discovery & Farewell 

  • Enjoy a fun downhill ride paralleling Johnson Creek towards Blanding.
  • We'll visit the Blanding Visitor Center before a celebratory lunch and our return to Moab, rich with memories of your Bears Ears mountain biking achievement.
  • Approx. 14 miles riding

Moab, UT
This trip will meet at 7:00 AM MST at the Aarchway Inn, 1551 North Riverview Drive, Moab, Utah. After loading the van, we will drive to the Boulder Mountain Lodge for our first night. The drive is approximately 4-1/2 hours. Lunch will be provided.

Ending Time
We will return to Moab between 3:00-4:00 PM on the last day.

Driving
Moab is located 30 miles south of Interstate 70 on Highway 191. We have a roomy parking area.

Flying into Salt Lake City, UT
Airport Code: SLC

From Salt Lake City there are 2 options:
1) Rent a car and drive to Moab, it will take approximately 4 hours.
2) Contact Moab Express at 435-260-9289 for shuttles.

Flying into Grand Junction, CO
Airport Code: GJT

From Grand Junction there are 2 options:
1) Rent a car and drive to Moab, it will take approximately 2 hours.
2) Contact Moab Express at 435-260-9289 for shuttles.

Flying into Moab
Airport Code: CNY
The airline that offers service into Canyonlands Field Airport: Contour Airlines provides daily jet service, in a partner relationship with American Airlines, between Moab and Phoenix, AZ and between Moab and Denver, CO
Book here: contourairlines.com
1 (888) 332-6686
email: customercare@contourairlines.com
Dates and times vary with the seasons, please check the website for flight times.

Contact Moab Express at 435-260-9289 for shuttles to and from Canyonlands Field Airport.

Lodging before your trip
It is a good idea to book your rooms in advance; here are a few recommendations:

Aarchway Inn -Where the trip meets (15% off for WS guests)
435-259-2599 - Use Hyperlink above or mention your a Western Spirit guest over the phone for discount.

Red Stone Inn
800-772-1972, 435-259-3500
moabredstone.com

Gravity Haus Moab
435-355-1088
gravityhaus.com

Taxi Service
Moab Taxi: 435-210-4297
435-259-Taxi: 435-259-8294

Need more information about our bike trips? Check out what a bike trip is all about by visiting our camping page, FAQ page,  what to bring page or be the first to know about new trips, last minute trip openings and future discounts by .

Need even more details? Send us a message or call and talk to one of our trip specialists at (435) 259-8732 

RIDING TYPE |■︎ Intermediate

TRIP DURATION | 5-Days

SEASON | May - June / August - September

-Experience Bears Ears: Alpine Trails and Ancient History

Bears Ears North 5-Day Intermediate Cultural Bike Tour

Unearth an extraordinary cycling adventure on the Bears Ears North bike trip with Western Spirit Cycling. Designed for intermediate mountain bikers, this fully supported expedition invites you to delve into the heart of Utah's remote Abajo Mountains, where stunning alpine trails meet profound ancient history. If you're an intermediate rider seeking a blend of scenic challenge and deep cultural immersion, this Utah guided bike tour is your next unforgettable journey. This isn't just a ride; it's an immersive journey through Bears Ears National Monument, a landscape rich with Ancestral Puebloan ruins and breathtaking vistas. This trip is also E-Bike Ready, ensuring accessibility for those who prefer an extra boost on the climbs.

Intermediate Challenge, 10,000 ft Vistas & Archaeological Immersion

This Guided Bears Ears Mountain Biking Experience is tailored for the intermediate rider and history enthusiast, featuring:

  • Profound Cultural Immersion: Combine cycling with hikes to famous Ancestral Puebloan ruins like the spectacular House on Fire and Butler Wash.
  • Alpine & Desert Views: Conquer rewarding ascents into the Abajo Mountains, reaching up to 10,000 feet, for dramatic views across the Utah desert.
  • Trail & Terrain: Primarily dirt road riding (hard packed sediment and clay), offering a smooth surface that allows focus on the challenging moderate to strenuous climbing required.
  • Accessibility: This adventure is E-Bike Ready, making the high-altitude climbs accessible to more riders.
  • Fully Supported: All logistics, including transportation from Moab, camp setup, and meals, are expertly managed.

-DAY-BY-DAY

Itineraries are subject to change due to weather, road conditions, rider safety and other factors which may affect the logistics of the adventure.

  • Road Surface: Dirt roads. Hard packed sediment and clay. Some sandy sections.
  • Overall Rating: Intermediate
  • Technical Difficulty: Easy to moderate.
  • Physical Difficulty: Moderate, some strenuous climbing.
  • Altitude: 4,000 - 10,000 feet
  • Biking Mileage: 8–24 miles per day.
  • Hiking Mileage: One 3 mile hike, one 6 mile hike.

MEETING PLACE AND TIME

Moab, UT
This trip will meet at 7:30 AM MST at the Aarchway Inn, 1551 North Riverview Drive, Moab, Utah. You will need to spend the night before in Moab.

We will be happy to pick you up at your hotel; please call us Monday - Friday, 9 - 5 to schedule your pickup.

ENDING TIME

We will return to Moab between 3:00-4:00 PM on the last day.

GETTING TO MOAB, UT

Driving

Moab is located 30 miles south of Interstate 70 on Highway 191. We have a roomy parking area.

Flying into Salt Lake City, UT

Airport Code: SLC

From Salt Lake City there are 2 options:

1) Rent a car and drive to Moab, it will take approximately 4 hours.

2) Contact Moab Express at 435-260-9289 for shuttles.

Flying into Grand Junction, CO

Airport Code: GJT

From Grand Junction there are 2 options:

1) Rent a car and drive to Moab, it will take approximately 2 hours.

2) Contact Moab Express at 435-260-9289 for shuttles.

Flying into Moab

Airport Code: CNY

The airline that offers service into Canyonlands Field Airport:

Contour Airlines provides daily jet service, in a partner relationship with American Airlines, between Moab and Phoenix, AZ and between Moab and Denver, CO

Book here: contourairlines.com

1 (888) 332-6686

email: customercare@contourairlines.com

Dates and times vary with the seasons, please check the website for flight times.

Contact Moab Express at 435-260-9289 for shuttles to and from Canyonlands Field Airport.

GETTING TO MOAB, UT

Driving

Moab is located 30 miles south of Interstate 70 on Highway 191. We have a roomy parking area.

Flying into Salt Lake City, UT

Airport Code: SLC

From Salt Lake City there are 2 options:

1) Rent a car and drive to Moab, it will take approximately 4 hours.

2) Contact Moab Express at 435-260-9289 for shuttles.

Flying into Grand Junction, CO

Airport Code: GJT

From Grand Junction there are 2 options:

1) Rent a car and drive to Moab, it will take approximately 2 hours.

2) Contact Moab Express at 435-260-9289 for shuttles.

Flying into Moab

Airport Code: CNY

The airline that offers service into Canyonlands Field Airport:

Contour Airlines provides daily jet service, in a partner relationship with American Airlines, between Moab and Phoenix, AZ and between Moab and Denver, CO

Book here: contourairlines.com

1 (888) 332-6686

email: customercare@contourairlines.com

Dates and times vary with the seasons, please check the website for flight times.

Contact Moab Express at 435-260-9289 for shuttles to and from Canyonlands Field Airport.

LODGING BEFORE YOUR TRIP

It is a good idea to book your rooms in advance; here are a few recommendations:

Aarchway Inn -Where the trip meets (15% off for WS guests)
435-259-2599 - Use Hyperlink above or mention your a Western Spirit guest over the phone for discount.

Red Stone Inn
800-772-1972, 435-259-3500
moabredstone.com

Gravity Haus Moab
435-355-1088
gravityhaus.com

TAXI SERVICE

Contact Moab Express at 435-260-9289 for shuttles

Be sure to bring everything on this list. We have carefully developed this list to ensure your comfort on the tour regardless of the weather. If you are prepared for extreme weather, it is an adventure. If you are not prepared it can be a serious problem.We recommend the layering system, including a wicking or long underwear layer, an insulating layer and a weather barrier for wind and rain. This list reflects that philosophy. Weather in the mountains can be unpredictable so be sure to bring all the warm clothing and rain gear listed!

HOW TO PACK: The bulk of your gear and clothing will ride in the Western Spirit support vehicle (preferably in a large duffle bag) and will not be accessible during the day.

For this trip, you will need a riding pack and optional day bag:

  •  Your riding pack may be a hydration pack, but needs to carry 2-3 liters of water, rain gear, other warm clothing, and food for the day. You may be away from camp and the support vehicle all day and need to be self-sufficient.
  • A small day bag is optional and may be used to store things you’d rather not ride with, but would like to have access to during the day. This day-pack will remain with the support vehicle and may not be accessible, depending on the day.

WHAT WE PROVIDE:
✓ meals, snacks, water, electrolyte drinks, non-alcoholic drinks
✓ camp mugs, all kitchen and dining ware
✓ 1 cycling water bottle
✓ camp chairs
✓ solar showers
✓ sunscreen & bug spray
✓ bike stand and lube
✓ guides bring their own tools
✓ first aid kit with basic medications

BRINGING OR RENTING

o bike (Our rentals come with flat pedals. You are welcome to bring your own if you prefer.)
o helmet (gratis w/rental bike)
o tent
o sleeping bag
o sleeping pad

CYCLING CLOTHING

o cycling shoes
o 3 - 5 pair cycling shorts
o 3 - 5 cycling shirts
o long sleeve cycling shirt
o long sleeve cotton shirt or solar sleeves
o cycling socks
o windbreaker
o tights or leg warmers
o 2 pair cycling gloves (1 pair full length for warmth)
o rain jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
o rain pants (Gore-Tex or similar)
o warm layer (lightweight synthetic puffy jacket or long sleeve fleece shirt)
o sunglasses or other eye protection

CAMP CLOTHING

o camp shorts
o shirts
o warm socks
o long underwear, top and bottom (wicking layer, not cotton)
o 2 pair warm long pants
o long sleeve fleece or sweater
o pile or down jacket (insulating layer)
o warm gloves and hat
o brimmed hat or visor
o bathing suit (for solar showers on the trip and at the hotel before/after your trip)
o hiking shoes
o sandals
o rain gear to wear in camp

PERSONAL

o toiletries
o medication (daily and emergency)
o towel
o biodegradable soap
o wet-wipes
o flashlight or headlamp (with extra batteries)
o sunglasses
o optional day bag
o stuff sacks or reusable grocery bags (or separate compartments for your dry bag)
o cash for tipping guides: your guides work as a team and share all of their gratuities. A tip of 10-20% of the price of your trip given to either one of your guides when you return to civilization is a great way to say thanks for a job well done.

OPTIONAL

o camera, extra batteries
o binoculars
o alcoholic or any of your favorite beverages (your guides will pack these)
o books or maps
o we encourage you to turn your devices off, but if you cannot, please bring a way to charge them. We recommend a portable USB charger with 1-2 charges. Also, putting your phone on airplane mode to save power is recommended.

Q: Since the route is challenging but non-technical doubletrack, what kind of bike is required (mountain bike or gravel bike), and what is the recommended minimum tire width for the primitive road surface?

A: Mountain Bike or Gravel Bike is appropriate for this route. Minimum mtb tire width 2.3. Minimum gravel tire width 40cc.

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Need more information about our bike trips? Check out what a bike trip is all about by visiting our camping page, FAQ page,  what to bring page or be the first to know about new trips, last minute trip openings and future discounts by .

Need even more details? Send us a message or call and talk to one of our trip specialists at (435) 259-8732 

Bears Ears North 5-Day Intermediate Cultural Bike Tour

PRICE | $1,845 pp

Private Departures Available
Call  435-259-8732

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See what some of our guest are saying:

Gorgeous scenery, challenging terrain, excellent food and really sharp, fun and friendly guides. - Michelle 

My second perfect trip with WS- and this time I brought my husband to show him. Superb biking, great mysteries of the Ancestral Puebloans, great camaraderie and food. And yes the guides- Frank, Avery and Katie. They had an eye for safety, and did everything for us including preparing all the great food. But at heart it was their enthusiasm, inquisitiveness, and devotion to the west/the outdoors. - it energized my entire 5 days. Thanks so much!! - Richard 

This was my first Western Spirit trip and it won’t be my last. Our guides Avery and Frank were great. The food was excellent and the support was fantastic. The area was really unique and there were not a lot of other people around, making the biking really special. - Thomas 

A Day With Western Spirit

Rise & Shine
How do you like to start your day? If you like waking up to hot coffee and unforgettable sunrises you’re in luck. Delicious cowboy coffee, fresh fruit salad, pancakes, bacon, granola, yogurt and more.

>>> Read More

Hit The Trail
Whether your trip includes: riding
the Rainbow Rim Trail; enjoying breathtaking views of the
Grand Canyon; leading your
friends on the White Rim Road in Canyonlands; or ripping down.

>>> Read More

Apres
We base our itineraries around the trails that we love to ride, but also around great camp locations. We love to find the perfect place next to rivers or lakes , or by vistas
and sunset spots.

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BIKE TRIP TESTIMONIALS

“This was our 3rd trip with Western Spirit, so we knew what to expect from the guides and the support they’d provide. The trip itself was spectacular – the scenery was unbeatable and the weather was perfect.”

~ Jennifer

“Great salads at lunch, a lot of variety, they guides had food specially prepared for those of us with food issues. Plus, they set up our chairs in the best spots!”

~ Teri

“Very accommodating of me being vegan, very cheerful and nice.”

~ Jason

“Warmth, humor, seriously good people skills,professionalism, competence. They execute their very serious responsibilities with confidence-inspiring grace.”

~ David

The food was fantastic! I didn’t expect such meals. The guides were so friendly, helpful, and entertaining. They really worked well together. Also, they made sure that everyone in their various skill levels enjoyed the rides and that there was enough for everyone.

~ Nichole

The guides made the trip totally beyond awesome. They were fun, the food was WAY better than I expected, the rides could be were tailored, guiding was superb, trails were a blast, our campsite was sweet. I have zero complaints.

~ Wendy

Great salads at lunch, a lot of variety, they guides had food specially prepared for those of us with food issues. Plus, they set up our chairs in the best spots!

~ Teri

“It’s been a long time since I’ve been on any organized event and this one was simply amazing. My skill and fitness level were not up to those as others in the group but never once did I feel intimidated…”

~ Nick

“I was tired at the end of each day and to have everything taken care of as far as dinner and cleanup, it was so nice to have that not be my issue. The guides were amazing, simply amazing….the food was always excellent, their personalities are different but blended with everyone perfectly!”

~ Pam

“I had been to Canyonlands two years prior so knew scenery was outstanding but it takes on even more magnificence when seen from seat of bike. The guides were awesome and supportive. Food was better than in most restaurants and more than you could eat.”

~ Michael

“The trip was one of the most incredible experiences of my life… the scenery, the views, the guides, and the food! I loved how great the meals were!!! The guides were unbelievable cooks! After biking all day, to be able to sit down and eat a great meal & drink a beer …man, it was great!”

~ Gary

Your guides are your ambassadors, they are fun, energetic and very knowledgeable. I would not do anything different.

~ Paul
“I was worried riding and camping with a group… could I keep up?… would I “fit in”? I was able to keep up and push myself and was challenged by the terrain, I loved it! The group was great I had nothing to worry about, everyone was friendly and supportive.”
~ Robin

“To begin with the landscape and scenery was majestic and awesome. The guides were all instrumental in enhancing the experience with their knowledge, skills, and out of the goodness of their character.”

~ Edward

“Food was WAY better than I expected. I like to eat healthy and was worried about “camping food.” The guides prepared amazing food. The trip was a blast in general with gorgeous scenery and good campsites. Guides were very friendly, patient and helpful”

~ Erika

“Normally I do self supported but having someone else make excellent food makes me want to do it again”

~ Christl

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