Skyline Traverse Bike Trip

RIDING TYPE | ■︎ ◆︎ Intermediate/ Advanced
TRIP DURATION | 4-Days
SEASON | June & August – September
PRICE | $1,495 pp

Experience the extraordinary Skyline Traverse mountain bike tour, where you’ll pedal along the 10,000-foot ridgelines of the Manti-La Sal National Forest with panoramic views of the San Rafael Swell. This fully supported Utah high-alpine cycling adventure handles every detail from gourmet backcountry meals to gear logistics, allowing you to focus on the incredible flow and massive vistas of this remote "Roof of Utah" ride.

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: Hard packed clay, loose gravel. Mostly dirt road route, no singletrack. Some loose, rocky sections. Some pavement.
Overall Rating: Intermediate/Advanced
Technical Difficulty: Moderate
Physical Difficulty: Difficult. Steep climbs, long days and high elevations make this ride a challenging one
Altitude: 4,000 - 10,500 feet
Daily Milage: 24 - 28 miles per day
Packing for your trip

DAY 1: Climbing up into the Sky(line) 

  • We begin our journey from an unassuming road near Soldier Summit in Central Utah.
  • From this location we will climb into a totally different world of alpine views and quiet forests.
  • This day features the biggest climb of the trip (4,450 ft) over 24 miles, rewarding us with cooler temperatures and views for miles and miles in the high country.
  • TOTAL MILEAGE: 24 miles | ELEVATION GAIN: 4,450 feet

DAY 2: CCC and Me 

  • We trace the route of the Skyline Drive, a modern, continuous drive largely developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s.
  • These workers constructed roads, trails, and campgrounds, connecting disparate logging roads into the scenic drive we enjoy today.
  • We will savor all of these workers' hard work as we enjoy more views and wildlife along the ridgeline.
  • TOTAL MILEAGE: 28.2 miles | ELEVATION GAIN: 3,777 feet

DAY 3: Pedal Strokes and Panoramas 

  • The road itself, which is one of the highest in Utah, provides high elevation vistas of the deep canyons and valleys on either side of the plateau.
  • Looking off to the East you can see into the deep canyons of the San Rafael Swell.
  • To the West, the small towns of Central Utah including Ephraim and Manti are visible.
  • Today’s terrain allows you to enjoy little reprieve from climbing with undulating terrain.
  • TOTAL MILEAGE: 27.8 miles | ELEVATION GAIN: 2,550 feet

DAY 4: Dropping Back into the Desert

  • Today you get rewarded for all of the climbing you've done over the last three days.
  • Just a touch of climbing in the morning is followed by an almost uninterrupted descent all the way down to I-70.
  • You’ll see the alpine views give way to forests, then pinion and juniper, then to desert as we descend off the plateau.
  • We’ll shuttle back to Moab after a delicious lunch for our final farewells.
  • TOTAL MILEAGE: 28.4 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 call us Monday - Friday, 9 - 5 to schedule your pickup.

Ending Time
We will return to Moab between 3:00-5:00 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 (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/ Advanced

TRIP DURATION | 4-Days

SEASON | June & August - September

Conquer Central Utah's Skyline Drive Traverse

This four-day, three-night cycling trip takes you along Skyline Drive in the Manti-La Sal National Forest, a route known for its stunning high-elevation views and challenging climbs. The journey begins near Soldier Summit and follows a scenic ridgeline, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding canyons and mountains. The route consists of well-maintained unpaved roads, requiring a mountain or gravel bike. E-bikes are welcome as well! Be prepared for significant elevation changes and remote conditions. You'll spend your nights camping under the stars, enjoying the peaceful solitude of the mountains. The trip concludes after a rewarding descent, leaving you with lasting memories of the rugged beauty of central Utah.

Tailored for Intermediate/Advanced riders seeking a significant high-country cycling challenge, featuring:

  • Extreme Elevation: Cycle at altitudes up to 10,500 feet, demanding high physical fitness due to steep climbs and long days.
  • Iconic High-Country Route: Ride the full length of the historic Skyline Drive, with continuous views of the San Rafael Swell and the valleys of Central Utah.
  • Major Physical Feat: Conquer the trip's largest challenge on Day 1: a 4,450-foot elevation gain over 24 miles.
  • Terrain: Primarily well-maintained unpaved roads (dirt/gravel), making it ideal for mountain or gravel bikes, with no technical singletrack.
  • Historical Immersion: Follow infrastructure largely developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s.

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: Hard packed clay, loose gravel. Mostly dirt road route, no singletrack. Some loose, rocky sections. Some pavement.
Overall Rating: Intermediate/Advanced
Technical Difficulty: Moderate
Physical Difficulty: Difficult. Steep climbs, long days and high elevations make this ride a challenging one
Altitude: 4,000 - 10,500 feet
Daily Milage: 24 - 28 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 3:00-5:00 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 -(15% off for WS guests)
435-259-2599 - please call for ^discount

Red Stone Inn -Bikes allowed in room.
800-772-1972, 435-259-3500
moabredstone.com

Gravity Haus Moab -Bikes allowed in room.
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: What is the maximum altitude reached on Skyline Drive, and what guidance is provided for managing the significant elevation changes and potential altitude sickness?

We reach an elevation of 10,500 ft on this trip. If you are coming from sea level we suggest adding a few days on the beginning of your trip to acclimate.

Q: What amenities (such as potable water, showers, or restrooms) can we expect at the remote high-country camping locations?

Western Spirits will bring all of the potable water everyone needs for the trip, we will have portable solar showers to wash off at camp every night and have a mix of FS toilets and backcountry portable toilet system we will use on this trip.

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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 

Skyline Traverse Bike Trip

PRICE | $1,495 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

“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 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

“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

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

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

~ Jason

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

~ Paul

“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

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

~ David

“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 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

“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

“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