North 40 Loop

The Moab Brand Trails are a series of trails about 7 miles north of the Colorado River, north of Moab.  They get their name from four of the major trails that spell out "MOAB."  They include the Bar M, Circle O, Rockin A and Bar B. I was curious how they came to the names and my local bike shop mechanic informed me they are named after Cow branding irons used by local ranches.  There is much mo...

The Bar M Loop Trail is a popular, family-friendly trail system located just north of Moab, Utah, offering scenic views of red rock mesas and the La Sal Mountains. This well-maintained loop is a great introduction to Moab’s mountain biking terrain and is also open to hikers and trail runners. The trail is mostly moderate with some gradual climbs and rolling terrain, making it ideal for beginn...

Willow Springs Trail is state-owned land located 13 miles north of downtown Moab Utah. The state provides some vault toilets and port-o-lets throughout the area, but there are no designated campsites or fire rings. Along the main road, there are plenty of large flat spots that people with RV's or big trailers grab, but there are spurs with plenty of other places to choose a campsite. Since this...

I'm always find dinosaur tracks fascinating. Willow Springs has a few cool tracks not as defined as others but definitely noticeable. There is also an interpretive sign describing the tracks installed by the Bureau of Land Management. To find the tracks, drive north on 191. Over the Colorado River and drive until you pass route 313 on the left. Willow Springs rd is the second right after route ...

This canyon requires an Arches Canyoneering Permit, two 60m ropes, 100 ft of webbing, and your normal canyoneering kit. To reach the parking for the canyon, drive five miles or so into Arches until you reach a bridge.  Shortly after the bridge, there will be a pull-off to the left where you can leave your vehicle.  From the parking lot, follow the wash directly west towards the cliffband.  Ski...

From the Park Avenue Trail parking area, you can walk up towards the lookout and admire the beauty, or you can hike down the steep path towards the canyon. The trail takes you down the wash to Courthouse Towers. You can either hike round trip to Courthouse Towers and back, or have someone drop you off at Park Avenue Trail and be picked up by the other end. The trailhead is located on the Arche...