North Rim of the Grand Canyon

Rainbow Rim & Arizona Trail

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

Experience the ultimate North Rim Grand Canyon mountain bike tour, where you’ll navigate the high-alpine singletrack of the Rainbow Rim Trail and sections of the legendary Arizona Trail. This fully supported Grand Canyon cycling adventure handles every detail from gourmet meals to gear logistics, allowing you to focus on the flowing descents and spectacular limestone rim views of the Kaibab Plateau.

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: Variable; dirt roads, singletrack trails.
Overall Rating: Intermediate
Technical Difficulty: Moderate; singletrack is not very technical, climbing is minimal.
Physical Difficulty: Moderate; singletrack is unsupported.
Altitude: 7,500 - 8,900 feet
Biking Mileage: 9-24 miles per day
Hiking Mileage: One 1.5 mile hike
Packing for your trip

DAY 1: Aspen Groves & Two Billion Years of Geology 

  • After our meeting in St. George, we will shuttle about 3 hours to the Kaibab National Forest. Our ride begins south of Jacob Lake where we will start out riding a series of aspen-lined dirt roads and singletrack to our camp at Locust or Fence Point.
  • This evening we will enjoy stunning Grand Canyon views that give us a great look at its vast complexity. Below us lies almost two billion years of geology, from the younger Permian layers to the metamorphic and igneous basement rocks that comprise the Inner Gorge of the Grand Canyon. These are some of the oldest rocks exposed in the world.
  • Total: 10-15 miles

DAY 2: The Acclaimed Rainbow Rim Trail

  • Today we’ll ride singletrack on the Rainbow Rim Trail, one of the highlights of our trip. It was designed and flagged by Ranger John of the North Kaibab Ranger District, who made sure the trail never rose or fell by more than nine degrees.
  • This means that the climbs are all very rideable and the descents are some of the most fun on any trip we offer. We will enjoy our pack lunch trailside at Timp Point, while studying the amazing strata of the canyon. If you are feeling tired, you have the option for a shorter day and can turn around at any time.
  • Total: 20 miles, options available

DAY 3: National Park Exploration & Historic Lodges

  • After packing up camp, we will shuttle into Grand Canyon National Park. We will spend the morning hiking on one of the park trails to explore the incredible sedimentary rock layers and find fossils—evidence of the 250-million-year-old seabed.
  • Next, we visit the historic Grand Canyon Lodge, constructed from giant timbers with a porch that suspends visitors over the canyon walls. We will shuttle back to the Kaibab Forest and ride singletrack to camp on the Arizona Trail (AZT).
  • Total: 8-14 miles riding, 1.5 miles hiking

DAY 4: The Arizona Trail & Marble Canyon Vistas

  • Today we will ride an out-and-back ride from camp on the Arizona Trail. After a short warm-up, we’ll ride fun singletrack through both aspens and ponderosas, crossing beautiful meadows with both shorter and longer mileage options.
  • Back at camp, we’ll relax with views of Marble Canyon far below. John Wesley Powell named this part of the canyon for the polished Redwall Limestone which reminded him of marble. This limestone is about 360 million years old and was deposited when most of the continent was under marine waters.
  • Total: 12-24 miles

DAY 5: Little Mountain & North Fork Rock Canyon

  • Today we will ride more of the Arizona Trail heading north towards Jacobs Lake. Today’s singletrack winds through an aspen grove which is still recovering from the 2011 wildfire.
  • Our ride will end with views of Little Mountain and North Fork Rock Canyon. After a tasty lunch near the overlook, we will load up for the shuttle back to St. George.
  • Total: 9 miles

St. George, UT
This tour will begin at 7:30 AM MST at The Holiday Inn St. George Convention Center. 1808 Crosby way, St. George, Ut 84790. You will need to spend the night in St. George because none of the shuttle services from Las Vegas or Salt Lake run early enough. See more details below in “Lodging Before Your Trip”. Book your room at the Holiday Inn using this special booking link to enjoy a discounted rate.

ENDING TIME

We will return to St. George between 4:00-5:00 PM on the last day. You will have time to catch a shuttle back to Las Vegas, but not to Salt Lake.

Driving
St. George is located 120 miles north of Las Vegas on Interstate 15. If you need to leave a car behind while you are on your trip, there is parking available
at the hotel where we will be meeting.

Flying into St. George
Airport Code: SGU
The airport is far from town. Be sure to book your taxi ahead of time.

Flying into Las Vegas, NV
Airport Code: LAS
There are two options for getting from Las Vegas to St. George:

1) Take a shuttle with Salt Lake Express. When you reserve, it is very important that you tell them the following things:

1. Select the Door to Door option with the 84790 zip code and provide them with the hotel address where you will be staying.
2. If you are flying with your bike, you will need to reserve a spot on the shuttle for your bike, which will need to be boxed up. There is a surcharge each way.

Shuttles depart from the Las Vegas Airport and St. George eight times daily. Keep in mind that St. George is one hour ahead of Las Vegas. Call 208-656-8824 or visit http://www.saltlakeexpress.com for times and to make a reservation.

2) Rent a car in Las Vegas and park it at the hotel.

Flying into Salt Lake City, UT

Airport Code: SLC
There are two options for getting from Salt Lake City to St. George:

1) Take a shuttle with Salt Lake Express. When you reserve, it is very important that you tell them the following things:

1. Select the Door to Door option with the 84790 zip code and provide them with the hotel address where you will be staying 2. If you are flying with your bike, you will need to reserve a spot on the shuttle for your bike, which will need to be boxed up. There is a surcharge each way.

Call 208-656-8824 or visit saltlakeexpress.com for times and to make a reservation.

2) Rent a car in Salt Lake; it is a 5 hour drive.

TAXI SERVICE
Quality Cab: 435-656-5222
Taxi USA: 435-656-1500

LODGING BEFORE YOUR TRIP

Holiday Inn St. George Convention Center
435-628-8007
Book your room at the Holiday Inn using this special booking link to enjoy a discounted rate.
Tru by Hilton St. George
435-634-7768
Fairfield Inn St. George
435-673-6066
Hilton Garden Inn St. George
435-634-4100

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 | June - September

Grand Canyon North Rim Bike Trip: Rainbow Rim & Arizona Trail

An Unparalleled North Rim MTB Experience

In addition to riding sections of the Arizona Trail, our mountain bike trip on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon includes a visit to Grand Canyon National Park and the highly acclaimed Rainbow Rim Trail. This mountain biking trail in 1the upper region of Grand Canyon National Park is one of our all-time favorites.

The construction techniques the trail builders used to form these trails are some of the best we have found in the West. The grade rarely exceeds 9% and everybody feels like a hero. The climbs are gentle and consistent, and the descents are smooth and flowing. With sweeping views of the Grand Canyon, the camping is truly hard to beat. This trip is an exciting way for intermediate mountain bikers to see one of America’s most spectacular National Parks! Because the North Rim sits at a higher elevation than the South Rim (7,500 – 8,900 ft), our route on this side of the canyon is a bit more challenging, offering a fantastic guided experience with options for longer or shorter rides.

Why Choose the North Rim Mountain Bike Tour?

This guided mountain biking trip is designed for intermediate riders seeking world-class "flow" and immersive National Park access:

  • The Rainbow Rim Hero Ride: Experience 20+ miles of purpose-built singletrack designed to never exceed a 9% grade—ensuring smooth, rideable climbs and thrilling, flowing descents.
  • Arizona Trail (AZT) Immersion: Pedal through high-alpine meadows and lush ponderosa forests on sections of this legendary 800-mile cross-state trail.
  • Geological Grandeur: Camp directly on the rim and explore two billion years of history, from Permian layers to the ancient metamorphic rocks of the Inner Gorge.
  • Fully Supported Expertise: Our expert guides handle every detail, from preparing gourmet trailside meals to providing mechanical support, so you can focus on the expansive views and iconic singletrack.

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: Variable; dirt roads, singletrack trails.
  • Overall Rating: Intermediate
  • Technical Difficulty: Moderate; singletrack is not very technical, climbing is minimal.
  • Physical Difficulty: Moderate; singletrack is unsupported.
  • Altitude: 7,500 - 8,900 feet
  • Biking Mileage: 9-24 miles per day
  • Hiking Mileage: One 1.5 mile hike

MEETING PLACE AND TIME

St. George, UT
This tour will begin at 7:30 AM MST at The Holiday Inn St. George Convention Center. 1808 Crosby way, St. George, Ut 84790. You will need to spend the night in St. George because none of the shuttle services from Las Vegas or Salt Lake run early enough. See more details below in “Lodging Before Your Trip”. Book your room at the Holiday Inn using this special booking link to enjoy a discounted rate.

ENDING TIME

We will return to St. George between 4:00-5:00 PM on the last day. You will have time to catch a shuttle back to Las Vegas, but not to Salt Lake.

GETTING TO ST. GEORGE, UT

Driving
St. George is located 120 miles north of Las Vegas on Interstate 15. If you need to leave a car behind while you are on your trip, there is parking available
at the hotel where we will be meeting.

Flying into St. George
Airport Code: SGU
The airport is far from town. Be sure to book your taxi ahead of time.

Flying into Las Vegas, NV
Airport Code: LAS
There are two options for getting from Las Vegas to St. George:

1) Take a shuttle with Salt Lake Express. When you reserve, it is very important that you tell them the following things:

1. Select the Door to Door option with the 84790 zip code and provide them with the hotel address where you will be staying.
2. If you are flying with your bike, you will need to reserve a spot on the shuttle for your bike, which will need to be boxed up. There is a surcharge each way.

Shuttles depart from the Las Vegas Airport and St. George eight times daily. Keep in mind that St. George is one hour ahead of Las Vegas. Call 208-656-8824 or visit http://www.saltlakeexpress.com for times and to make a reservation.

2) Rent a car in Las Vegas and park it at the hotel.

Flying into Salt Lake City, UT

Airport Code: SLC
There are two options for getting from Salt Lake City to St. George:

1) Take a shuttle with Salt Lake Express. When you reserve, it is very important that you tell them the following things:

1. Select the Door to Door option with the 84790 zip code and provide them with the hotel address where you will be staying 2. If you are flying with your bike, you will need to reserve a spot on the shuttle for your bike, which will need to be boxed up. There is a surcharge each way.

Call 208-656-8824 or visit saltlakeexpress.com for times and to make a reservation.

2) Rent a car in Salt Lake; it is a 5 hour drive.

TAXI SERVICE
Quality Cab: 435-656-5222
Taxi USA: 435-656-1500

LODGING BEFORE YOUR TRIP

Holiday Inn St. George Convention Center
435-628-8007
Book your room at the Holiday Inn using this special booking link to enjoy a discounted rate.
Tru by Hilton St. George
435-634-7768
Fairfield Inn St. George
435-673-6066
Hilton Garden Inn St. George
435-634-4100

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 duffel 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 daypack 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.

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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 

North Rim of the Grand Canyon

PRICE | $1,845 pp

Private Departures Available
Call  435-259-8732

Gallery

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.

>>> Read More

BIKE TRIP TESTIMONIALS

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

~ Paul

“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

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

“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

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
“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

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

~ Jason

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

~ Christl

“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

“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

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

~ David

“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

“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

“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

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