The best traffic-free bike rides in Steep Creek Wilderness Study Area

The Steep Creek Wilderness Study Area (WSA) is primarily designated for wilderness preservation and hiking due to its extreme topography, including deep canyons and rugged sandstone cliffs. Touring cycling is generally not suitable or permitted within the WSA boundaries. The routes featured in this guide are located in the surrounding recreational lands, offering views of the WSA's geological formations and canyons, often utilizing dirt and gravel roads that experience minimal vehicle traffic.

The touring cycling routes in the vicinity of the Steep Creek Wilderness Study Area are generally considered difficult. For example, routes like the Anasazi State Park Museum – Long Canyon Overlook loop from Slot Canyon involve significant elevation gains, with over 950 meters of ascent over 56 kilometers. Cyclists should be prepared for challenging terrain and demanding conditions.

You can expect to encounter diverse and rugged landscapes. The routes often provide views of the distinctive Circle Cliffs, known for their intensely colored Chinle mounds and dramatic Wingate Sandstone cliffs. You'll also see pinyon-juniper woodlands and potentially catch glimpses into the deep canyons that characterize the Steep Creek Wilderness Study Area.

Yes, some routes pass by notable points of interest. For instance, the Anasazi State Park Museum – Long Canyon Overlook loop from Slot Canyon includes the Long Canyon Overlook. While the WSA itself contains features like Lamanite Arch and Singing Canyon, these are typically accessed via hiking trails within the wilderness area, not directly by touring bicycle routes.

Given the rugged and often exposed nature of the terrain, the best times for touring cycling are typically spring and fall. Summers can be extremely hot, and winters may bring cold temperatures and potentially impassable conditions on unpaved roads. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Due to their classification as difficult and the significant distances and elevation gains involved, these routes are generally not recommended for families with young children or beginner touring cyclists. They require a good level of fitness, experience with challenging terrain, and self-sufficiency.

Since many of the routes utilize dirt and gravel roads, often with sandy stretches and wash crossings, a robust touring bicycle, gravel bike, or mountain bike with appropriate tires would be most suitable. Standard road bikes are not recommended for these conditions.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops. For example, the Wolverine Petrified Wood Area – Little Death Hollow Trailhead loop from Long Canyon Overlook offers a challenging 61.5 km loop, and the Long Canyon Overlook loop from Boulder is another option covering nearly 55 km.

Parking is typically available at designated trailheads or access points along the roads that lead to these routes. Since these are often remote areas, ensure your vehicle is securely parked and do not leave valuables visible. Specific parking details may vary by route starting point.

While the Steep Creek Wilderness Study Area itself has specific regulations for pets, the surrounding recreational lands and roads may have different rules. It is always best to check with the local land management agency (such as the BLM) for current regulations regarding dogs on specific routes or areas you plan to cycle through. Generally, dogs should be kept on a leash and all waste should be packed out.

These routes are in a remote and undeveloped area. There are generally no facilities such as cafes, restaurants, or reliable water sources directly along the routes. Cyclists should plan to be entirely self-sufficient, carrying all necessary food, water, and repair supplies for the duration of their ride.

For official information regarding the Steep Creek Wilderness Study Area and its regulations, you can visit the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) website. Useful resources include the general overview at blm.gov/visit/steep-creek-wsa or a more detailed program page at blm.gov/programs/national-conservation-lands/utah/steep-creek-wsa.