Sunday, March 18, 2012

Spring Adventure Idea - Sovereign Trail Singletrack, Moab

Spring is almost here. In Utah, Spring means it's time to start dreaming up trips to Moab - warm weather, red rock, and outdoor adventures. When you think of Moab, the first thing that comes to mind is mountain biking. One of my favorite rides near Moab is the single-track Sovereign Trail.

The Sovereign Trail system offers mountain bikers a little bit of everything. Climbing gently up Salt Wash, the trail surface alternates between slickrock and packed brown dirt, mostly avoiding the frustrating sand traps that plague some of the area's other trails. The varied character of the ride keeps things interesting and challenging, but is not too difficult for those new to riding single track. Making it a popular route for both beginners and experienced riders.

Several variations along the route spread bikers out and keep the popular trail from becoming too crowded. They also offer different length rides so you can custom tailor your tour. As the single track gains elevation, views spread out of the surrounding red rock country. Arches National Park is to the south, and Canyonlands National Park to the west. The trail is easy to follow, even across the slickrock, but you'll want at least a rudimentary map to navigate the multiple trail junctions. Small drops over sandstone ledges and a section of sharp switchbacks offer notable technical challenges along the trail. But these are balanced by sections of smooth, fast single track.

If your trip includes camping, pick up a copy of my guidebook, Moon Utah Camping for information on all the Moab area campgrounds.

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