Moab Canyon Pathway

The pathway offers several access points. A popular starting point is near the Colorado River bridge. You can also access it directly from the Arches National Park Visitor Center, which has parking facilities. The pathway itself is designated for non-motorized vehicles, providing a safe alternative to busy roads.

Yes, the main section of the pathway, especially the route to Arches National Park, is generally considered easy and suitable for all skill levels and fitness levels. It features mostly paved surfaces and is a great option for families and beginner touring cyclists. The initial 2 miles from the Colorado River bridge to Arches National Park's entrance are relatively flat.

The pathway is primarily a smooth, paved blacktop, making it ideal for road bikes and touring cyclists. It was originally an old highway converted into a protected, separated bike path. While the main route is paved, some extended routes or access points to mountain biking trails might involve unpaved sections.

Cyclists are treated to absolutely amazing scenery, including red rock canyons, towering sandstone cliffs, and views of the Colorado River. Notable features include the Courthouse Wash pictograph panel and direct access to the Arches National Park Visitor Center. The pathway itself is a highlight, offering an immersive experience away from highway noise.

Yes, the pathway is a key connector. It provides direct access to Arches National Park and serves as a gateway to Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park via extensions on other highways. It also offers direct access to popular mountain biking trail systems like the Moab Brands Trail System and the Mag 7 (Gemini Bridges) and Bar M trails. The route also passes through sections of the ADT - Utah - R - Seg 1, ADT - Utah - R - Seg 2, Prospector, Upper Prospector, Courthouse Wash Trail, and Mill Creek Parkway.

The pathway is a multi-use trail popular with hikers, runners, and joggers, and dogs are generally permitted on leash. However, please be aware that specific rules may apply within Arches National Park itself, where pets are typically not allowed on trails or in visitor centers, but are permitted on roads and in parking areas.

Spring and fall are generally considered the best times to cycle in Moab, offering pleasant temperatures and stunning scenery. Summers can be very hot, and winters can be cold, though the pathway is accessible year-round. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.

No, there is no specific permit or fee required to use the Moab Canyon Pathway itself. However, if you plan to enter Arches National Park, standard park entrance fees apply. You can find more information on park fees and passes at visitutah.com.

While the main pathway to Arches National Park is easy, continuing past the park entrance towards Highway 313 involves a section of 6.5 miles with 525 vertical feet of climbing. Additionally, a 1.3-mile section heading northwest has a 7% grade. For a more challenging ride, extending to Dead Horse Point State Park or Canyonlands National Park's Island in the Sky involves significant climbs.

The Moab Canyon Pathway is primarily an out-and-back route. However, its connectivity to other roads and trail systems allows for various extensions and potential loop options if you combine it with other routes, though the core pathway itself is linear.

Given its smooth, paved blacktop surface, the pathway is ideal for touring bicycles, road bikes, and hybrid bikes. E-bikes and pedal-assist bicycles are also permitted. While it connects to mountain biking trails, the pathway itself is not designed for off-road mountain biking.