San Rafael Swell Mountain Bike Tour

Utah's Geologic Wonder & Ancient Rock Art

RIDING TYPE | ■︎ ◆︎ Intermediate/ Advanced
TRIP DURATION | 5-Days
SEASON | April - May / September - October
PRICE | $1,845 pp

Experience an extraordinary San Rafael Swell mountain bike tour, where you’ll navigate a jaw-dropping geologic uplift of ancient fossils, hidden slot canyons, and historic rock art. This fully supported Utah advanced cycling adventure handles every detail from gourmet backcountry meals to gear logistics, allowing you to focus on the technical "behind the reef" trails and the profound solitude of this rugged desert wilderness.

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

Overall Rating: Advanced (Demanding physical and technical challenge).
Road Surface: Four-wheel drive jeep roads (packed sediment, sand, and slickrock).
Technical Difficulty: Moderate (some steep climbs and rocky sections).
Physical Difficulty: Advanced (high mileage and remote travel).
Altitude Range: 4,000 – 6,000 feet
Daily Mileage: 16–33 miles per day.
Packing for your trip

DAY 1: Temple Mountain & The Reef Road Introduction

  • Our adventure starts below Temple Mountain, the San Rafael Swell's highest peak.
  • This sandstone mountain was mined for uranium and is home to Fremont culture pictograph panels over 700 years old.
  • Behind the Reef Road takes us past Ding Dang Dome and into camp.
  • Today’s ride serves as a great introduction to intermediate/advanced riding in the Swell.
  • TOTAL MILEAGE: 27 miles

DAY 2: Tomsich Butte & Muddy Creek Climb

  • Heading west from camp, we’ll pedal toward Tomsich Butte and Hondu Arch, following the serene Muddy Creek.
  • After lunch, we’ll start our substantial climb up the valley towards Swasey Cabin.
  • Built in 1921 by early settlers, the Swasey brothers ran cattle in the area and named many of the landmarks we’ll encounter during this remote San Rafael Swell cycling expedition.
  • TOTAL MILEAGE: 33 miles

DAY 3: Barrier Canyon Style Art & San Rafael River

  • Today’s ride is mostly downhill, giving us plenty of time for exploration.
  • Right outside camp, we’ll stop at Dutchman Arch and explore several incredible pictograph panels.
  • The Swell boasts one of Utah’s highest concentrations of Barrier Canyon Style rock art—interpretation is yours!
  • After viewing the panels at Locomotive Point, a scenic pedal toward the San Rafael River will bring us to our camp next to the Swinging Bridge for the next two nights.
  • TOTAL MILEAGE: 30 miles

DAY 4: Mexican Mountain & Swell's Delicate Arch

  • Today we’ll ride past the many canyons of the San Rafael River as we head toward Mexican Mountain.
  • Brightly colored cliffs, buttes, ridges, alcoves, and pinnacles dominate the viewscape.
  • After a lunch stop at the end of the road, we’ll continue on foot to catch a glimpse of the Swell’s very own "Delicate Arch"—a hidden gem in this geological wonderland.
  • TOTAL MILEAGE: 31 miles

DAY 5: Buckhorn Wash & The Little Grand Canyon Finale

  • The finale for our San Rafael Swell adventure is a visit to the deepest canyon in the region, the San Rafael Swell’s 'Little Grand Canyon'.
  • After a pedal through Buckhorn Wash, home to some of the best examples of Barrier Canyon rock art, we arrive at the Wedge Overlook with magnificent views 1,000 feet down to the San Rafael River.
  • This is truly a gem that will solidify this experience as an unforgettable intermediate/advanced Utah bike tour!
  • 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. You will need to spend the night before in Moab.

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

Ending Time
We will return to Moab between 4:00-5:00 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 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/ Advanced

TRIP DURATION | 5-Days

SEASON | April - May & September - October

San Rafael Swell Mountain Bike Tour: Utah's Geologic Wonder & Ancient Rock Art

Advanced Cycling in Utah's Geologic Wonder

The San Rafael Swell, a jaw-dropping geologic wonder formed 50 million years ago, was created when volcanic activity pushed a huge swath of land upwards into a giant anticline. Nestled among southern Utah’s famous National Parks, this hidden gem is a playground for intermediate/advanced mountain biking.

As we ride from landmark to landmark, you’ll encounter traces of Fremont, Ute, and Paiute cultures—rock art, ancient structures, and stories carved into the landscape. Rich in natural history and unique geology, riding the "behind the reef" reveals a side of Utah that few get to see. From fossils to rock art, slot canyons to grand canyons, the natural landscapes are vast and ready for a challenging adventure.

Ready for the ultimate advanced Utah cycling challenge? View Dates and Book Your San Rafael Swell Tour!

Geology, Challenge, and Ancient Rock Art

This Intermediate/Advanced rating tour focuses on challenging routes and deep cultural immersion:

  • Technical Riding: Traverse rugged, four-wheel drive jeep roads featuring sand, slickrock, and rocky climbs.
  • Cultural History: Discover preserved Fremont Culture pictographs and Barrier Canyon Style rock art.
  • Geological Highlights: Explore Temple Mountain, the Waterpocket Fold, and the stunning Little Grand Canyon.
  • Remote Adventure: Experience true solitude in this San Rafael Swell backcountry ecosystem.

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

  • Overall Rating: Advanced (Demanding physical and technical challenge).
  • Road Surface: Four-wheel drive jeep roads (packed sediment, sand, and slickrock).
  • Technical Difficulty: Moderate (some steep climbs and rocky sections).
  • Physical Difficulty: Advanced (high mileage and remote travel).
  • Altitude Range: 4,000 – 6,000 feet
  • Daily Mileage: 16–33 miles per day.

MEETING PLACE AND TIME

Moab, UT

This trip will meet at 7:00 AM MST at 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 4:00-5:00 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.

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

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
✓ dry bags to pack your gear
✓ 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: Is there cell phone service on the trails or at the campsites? 

A: Cell service is present but spotty on days 1-3.

Q: Is there water available on the trail, or do I need to carry all my water for the day?

A: Not on the trail. The support vehicle will carry water from camp to camp, you will need to carry water daily in your camelback.

Q: What happens if I get too tired or if the climbing proves to be too strenuous on a given day?

A: Guides will do daily map talks, letting the group know if the support vehicle will be with us daily (utilizing it for a boost if needed) or if we will be unsupported.

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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 

San Rafael Swell Mountain Bike Tour

PRICE | $1,845 pp

Private Departures Available
Call  435-259-8732

Gallery

San Rafael Swell

See what guests are saying - click here:

The trip was absolutely amazing. The scenery was beyond incredible and Frank and Cullen were superb guides and hosts. Cannot speak highly enough of them. They looked after our every need - making sure we were safe and cooked delicious food for every meal - top culinary skills all done in the desert. They really made a huge effort to keep us happy. - Candida 

Great trail itinerary, scenery, gravel and challenging rocky downhills. Very nice group of people, compatible and similar riding ability. No one complained even in pouring rain. Guides had some rough weather to deal with and did a great job making the group feel comfortable! - Michael 

The San Rafael trip was great. The first day was a major grunt but the rest of the days were worth it. I rode my Salsa Cutthroat (no suspension) and did just fine. Some of the sections on the first day were rocky and rough, but easy to hike-a-bike for that short section (I'm very conservative on the rough stuff). The scenery everywhere was fantastic, well worth the effort. - Milt 

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

“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

“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

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

“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

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

“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

“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

“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
“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

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

~ Paul

“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

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

~ Jason

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

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