Biking

Biking along the scenic drive.

NPS Photo by Neal Herbert

 

Bicycles are permitted on all paved and unpaved roadways within the park but not on any of the trails. There are no bike lanes, so bicyclists must ride single file at all times with the flow of traffic. Signs warn drivers that bikes might be present and to keep a minimum of three feet from all riders, but bicyclists should remain very alert to passing cars.

There are many options for riding bikes outside the park. Moab is surrounded by mountain biking trails of every difficulty level, from dirt roads to technical singletrack. Popular road rides abound, as well. A paved bike path connects the gateway community of Moab with the entrance to Arches, and continues along Highway 191 to Highway 313 (which leads to Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse State Point).

If you do plan to ride your bike in Arches:

1. Consider coming early in the morning when there isn't as much traffic.
2. Some of the narrowest road sections are along the switchbacks above the visitor center. Riders can skip this section by shuttling their bikes to the La Sal Mountain Overlook, where there is usually adequate parking.
3. The Salt Valley and Willow Springs dirt roads are less traveled but are more suited to mountain bikes due to washboards, deep sand, and other obstacles.