Grand Staircase Escalante

Grand Staircase-Escalante & Capitol Reef Bike Tour

Beginner-Friendly Adventure

ADVENTURE TYPE | ●︎ Introductory
TRIP DURATION | 5-Days
SEASON | April - May / September - October
PRICE | $1,795 pp

Experience the heart of Utah’s diverse geology on this "view a minute" adventure in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument that pairs a comfortable lodge stay with three nights of supported camping under the stars. From the famous Burr Trail, to Capitol Reef National Park to sweeping viewpoints of the towering Henry Mountains, our guides handle all the logistics and gourmet cooking so you can focus entirely on the spectacular riding and scenery.

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, broken slickrock, clay, pavement.
Overall Rating: Introductory
Technical Difficulty: Easy to moderate.
Physical Difficulty: Easy to moderate.
Altitude: 4,000 - 8,000 feet

Packing for your trip


DAY 1: Calf Creek Falls & Boulder Mountain Lodge 

  • Our adventure begins in Moab, where we’ll shuttle through some of Utah’s most spectacular—and least-traveled—landscapes.
  • After arriving in Boulder, Utah, we’ll head toward the town of Escalante along the area known as the hogback, with incredible views.
  • We will drop off the hogback to the Calf Creek Trail Head where we’ll start our moderate, 6-mile hike to Lower Calf Creek Falls.
  • This hike includes a great introduction to desert plants, incredible views of ancient Ancestral Puebloan granaries, some haunting petroglyphs, and, of course, a visit to the falls.
  • After our hike, we will shuttle back to the Boulder Mountain Lodge for dinner at Hell’s Backbone Grill.
  • TOTAL MILEAGE: 6 mile hike

DAY 2: Burr Trail Descent & Henry Mountain Views

  • From the lodge, we’ll begin a magnificent downhill ride on the Burr Trail through the stunning Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.
  • The first 30 miles of this road have recently been paved, making for smooth riding as we begin atop Durffy Mesa.
  • As we drop into the narrows of Long Canyon, sheer sandstone walls rise for several hundred feet above us.
  • We will turn off the Burr Trail toward the Lamp Stand formation, where we will spend the next two nights.
  • Our 270-degree view includes the Henry Mountains, Boulder Mountain, and Navajo Mountain.
  • TOTAL MILEAGE: 26 miles

DAY 3: Wolverine Loop & Petrified Wood 

  • Today we will do a loop from camp on the Wolverine Loop Road.
  • The road provides some great swooping downhill sections interspersed with a few rolling climbs.
  • We drop down below the Wingate Sandstone, offering spectacular views of the Henry Mountains, which rise 7,000 feet.
  • Lunch will be at the entrance to the Wolverine Petrified Wood Area, where we can learn more about the vast natural history.
  • After lunch, we’ll pedal through Horse and Wolverine Canyons and back to the Burr Trail.
  • An optional extension is available for riders up for the challenge.
  • TOTAL MILEAGE: 28 - 35 miles (optional 7-mile addition)

DAY 4: Capitol Reef & The Waterpocket Fold

  • Today our ride begins at the boundary to Capitol Reef National Park, in the foreground lies the twisted rock formations of the Waterpocket Fold.
  • After a fun descent, we’ll turn off the Burr Trail and ride out to the trailhead at Upper Muley Twist Canyon.
  • At the beginning of our hike, we’ll have a wonderful view looking right up the Fold.
  • After our hike, we’ll head back to the Burr Trail for lunch at the top of the spectacular Burr Trail switchbacks.
  • Descending the switchbacks places us at the base of the fold, where we head south to our camp, surrounded by desert solitude.
  • TOTAL MILEAGE: 20-23 miles riding, 1 mile hiking

DAY 5: Primitive Track to Lake Powell 

  • After leaving camp this morning, we will ride the most primitive section of the entire tour.
  • Along this doubletrack road, we will experience a few short, technical sections as we cross a series of drainages.
  • Once we hit the pavement, our ride is all downhill toward the shores of Lake Powell.
  • Despite the fact that so much fascinating country now lies underwater, the lake itself is quite beautiful and provides a dramatic end to our journey.
  • TOTAL MILEAGE: 16 miles

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 5:00-6:00 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 (10% 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 pagewhat 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 | ●︎ Introductory

TRIP DURATION | 5-Days

SEASON | April - May / September - October

Grand Staircase Escalante

Grand Staircase-Escalante & Capitol Reef Bike Tour | Beginner-Friendly Adventure

Introduction: Into the Heart of Utah's Geology

The Grand Staircase has been called a "world class view a minute"—and it’s true. Our bike tour takes you deep into the incredible Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, one of Utah’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. We begin at the wonderful Boulder Mountain Lodge in the tiny town of Boulder, Utah. After a moderate hike along Calf Creek, we begin our descent on the famous Burr Trail toward Capitol Reef National Park.

The Henry Mountains, the last mountain range to be explored in the lower 48, tower over the elaborate canyons which make up the Waterpocket Fold of Capitol Reef. This trip is a great way to see the heart of Utah's fascinating and diverse geology. With a comfortable lodge stay and three nights of supported camping, it is a perfect introduction to mountain bike touring, and riders of all abilities will marvel at the scenery.

Ready for your introductory adventure? Secure your spot on the Grand Staircase-Escalante trip today!

Trip Comforts & Logistics

This tour offers a perfect blend of rugged adventure and premium comfort, ideal for those new to multi-day touring.

  • Premium Lodging: Enjoy a double-occupancy stay (single available at checkout) at the renowned Boulder Mountain Lodge on Day 1.
  • Five-Star Dining: Day 1 dinner is hosted at the intimate Hell's Backbone Grill, serving five-star cuisine.
  • Fully Supported Camping: The remaining three nights feature our comfortable, fully supported base camp setup.
  • Difficulty: This is an Introductory level trip—perfect for riders who prioritize spectacular scenery and manageable trails.

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, broken slickrock, clay, pavement.
  • Overall Rating: Introductory
  • Technical Difficulty: Easy to moderate.
  • Physical Difficulty: Easy to moderate.
  • Altitude: 4,000 - 8,000 feet
  • Biking Mileage: 16-28/35 miles per day. (optional extension on longest day)
  • Hiking Mileage: One 1 mile hike, one 6 mile hike.

MEETING PLACE AND TIME

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 5:00-6:00 PM on the last day.

GETTING TO MOAB, UT

Driving
Moab is located 30 miles south of Interstate 70 on Highway 191.

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:

UNITED EXPRESS - Operated by SkyWest www.united.com

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 (10% 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

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: How casual or formal is the dining experience at Hell's Backbone Grill on Day 1?

A: Casual dining attire is acceptable at Hell's Backbone Grill.

Q: Since this is an Introductory tour, what is the average pace of the group, and how often do guides stop for breaks and photo opportunities?

A: Guides do daily map talks, setting expectations, giving mileage, regroups etc. We typically are helmets on pedaling from camp around 9ish, stopping for and a 1hr lunch and arriving in camp between 3-4pm daily.

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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 pagewhat 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 

Grand Staircase-Escalante & Capitol Reef Bike Tour

PRICE | $1,795 pp

Private Departures Available
Call  435-259-8732

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See what guests are saying - click here:

Gus and Garrett are both top notch and worked so hard! We had perfect weather for the whole trip, the food was delicious and healthy for every meal. The riding routes were all scenic and fun. Both camp spots were great, huge starry nights. You do a top notch job of organizing biking trips in wilderness areas. That is no easy task. - Michael

This was an amazing trip with wonderful guides and favorite travel biking friends. The trip was such fun from the luxury of the Boulder Mountain Lodge to the remoteness of the back country. - Jay

This trip exceeded my expectations. Avery and Chris were outstanding and they went the extra mile every day. Every detail was perfect. I loved the daily map talks where they set expectations and outlined the day for us. As a bit of a food snob, I was in awe of their preparation, presentation and the truly gourmet quality of each meal. I appreciate their focus on safety and supporting each of us individually, given our different skill levels. They also helped me to understand more about the places we visited, which enriched the experience. Also a shout out to the front office team. I called with questions a few times before the trip and they always knew the answers, were super supportive and even gave me a few pre-trip tips. It was a long drive to Moab, but I don't want it to be just a once in a lifetime ride - and will find time to join another trip. Many thanks - Mary

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

“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

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

“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 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

“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

“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

“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

“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
“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

“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

“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