There are some pretty steep climbs on this trail with the payoff being some exhilarating descents. RECOMMENDED ROUTE Difficult. Many of the BLM campgrounds lining the trail do not have water, or if they do its not potable. I have experienced extremely high winds and snowstorms in the high desert regions of Colorado and Utah, and this tent always holds up well. The route is popular as a 2- to 3-night bikepacking trip, a 3- to 4-day vehicle-supported trip, and as a . The Kokopelli Trail is part of the larger Grand Loop. The weather can be unpredictable, regularly swinging from blazingly hot to frost-and-ice-all-over-your-tent cold. That first ride took him 23 hours, and soon after, he rode the trail in the opposite direction in just 17 hours. Topeak multitool with tubeless repair kit, Kokopelli Trail info from the Bureau of Land Management. YOUR ULTIMATE BIKEPACKING GUIDE TO THE KOKOPELLI. A section of the trail, the Kokopelli Singletrack, begins just outside the . Aid stations rough every 8 miles. If you can ride intermediate-level mountain bike terrain, the Kokopelli Trail will be a rewarding experience. It's my one and only and it's so fun everywhere I take it. The summer months can be extremely hot so plan to tackle it during the shoulder months for a more enjoyable trip. Ive made it on the dirt road to Fisher Valley in a Subaru, but a sedan wouldn't make it there. Over the Edge bike shop suggests people park behind Suds Brothers Brewery at 127 E Aspen Ave, Fruita, CO 81521. The trail ends in the Sand Flats section which takes you from Porcupine Rim to Slickrock. Start at our worldwide routes map to dig into our detailed guides with GPS maps and inspiring photography. Bikepacking has taken the mountain bike world by storm, with the upper echelon of bikepackers continuing to shatter time barriers and pioneer incredible . This bucket-list bikepacking trip is an adventure of the soul and a test of your commitment. One consideration is to bring a, If you want to execute a successful trip, it will certainly behoove you to do some checking and planning during the weeks leading up to your trip. Planned for 3 nights but the first half went quicker than I expected! The Kokopelli Trail starts near Loma, Colorado which is about 15 miles from Grand Junction. } It really is ATV road the entire way between fruita and moab, some sections were very desolate with no trees where I would not have wanted to camp but found great spots both nights that were off the road a bit and felt remote enough for a nice backcountry site. One group dropped water at Rabbit Valley and Dewey Bridge, the other group drove the dirt road in an SUV to Fisher Valley and left a cache there. Classics have a way of seeming passalmost a clichand you might therefore be tempted to skip it. Revelate Saltyroll on Oveja Negra handlebar harness, food: tortillas, dried fruit, pb packets, tuna packets, summer sausage. This is certainly not a trip for bringing your dog or someone just starting out with biking. Kokopelli Trail, the long way into Moab (trip report & packing list in comments) 1 / 3 73 11 comments Add a Comment halfearup 2 yr. ago Finished this classic route in 3 full days, 2 nights out on the trail, 10-12 hours riding per day. To facilitate these efforts, we rely on our Bikepacking Collective and the greater bikepacking community to call attention to critical issues and opportunities that are discovered while riding these routes. More technical singletrack sections are on the descent into Moab and scattered throughout the route. 28685 Smith Rd Romulus MI 48174 (734) 326-9801. If you were to start in Moab and ride north, you would begin with a nearly 20-mile, 4,000-foot climb. The other person in our group did not bring a storm-worthy shelter. How to Take Care of Your Feet on a backpacking trip, How to take care of your backpacking tent, Backpacking Little lakes Valley to Gem Lakes, Best Freeze Dried Backpacking Meals for 2023, Top 10 Things to Do in Redwood National & State Parks, Climbing Mt Whitney in A Day (Or Two): Hiking the Mt Whitney Trail, Californias Rae Lakes Loop: The Complete Backpacking Guide, How to Make the Most of One Day in Death Valley: A Quick Itinerary, 10 Creative Things to Do in Crescent City, CA. Its a good idea to do some research (I read current trip reports) or make a few calls to check the flow of streams and rivers to be sure you know how much water to carry at each point you fill up. If you enter this way, and depending on the time of day you may have to pay a $2 entrance fee, or 5$ vehicle fee. } The following year I returned to the Kokopelli Trail more prepared. It's a marin pine mountain 2 but I don't think they make the purple anymore sadly. You need to be logged in to use these features. CNY is closest airport but also the most expensive and with the most limited options. On the 142-mile Kokopelli's Trail, a group of bikepackers race against dusk on Porcupine Rim, a. From the Loma exit (exit 15) you travel west on the gravel road to the trailhead on the left. This was Kaitlyns first ultra since a devastating car accident that had her questioning her ability to ride or walk again, but after a long and inspiring recovery, she managed to best Rebecca Ruschs 2013 record by 25 minutes. Website. In Moab, a great place to drop a vehicle is the Information Center; make sure to leave your name and contact info at the desk. Dirt roads, paved roads, and singletrack with some technical areas. More. It will take about half a day to cache water and drive back to either end of the Kokopelli. After riding through the Kokopelli Loops trail network, youll get a taste of your first hike-a-bike down to Salt Creek (which isnt safe to drink). It follows the Colorado River, and youll regularly get views of the river as it winds through the landscape below. We then met in Moab, loaded into one vehicle, and drove back to the Loma Trailhead. Be sure to stop at Milts as you enter town for a milkshake. This epic bikepacking adventure promises an incredible final descent as you wearily make your way into Moab. I am a bikepacking addict who also happens to be an above knee amputee. Racing the sunset into Moab on the Porcupine Rim Trail and I didn't see a single person on the descent (probably because I started around 6pm on a Tuesday). There are some steep climbs on this trail with the payoff being some exhilarating descents. There are plenty of camping options along the way including the BLM campgrounds listed below; some may require a small fee. If you want to execute a successful trip, it will certainly behoove you to do some checking and planning during the weeks leading up to your trip. For some time now the Kokopelli was without an official race on the calendar. Kokopelli Trail (Bikepacking Route + Porcupine Rim) location Utah, USA We recognize Indigenous Peoples as the traditional stewards of this land. Grand Junction also has a regional airport and car rental options for caching water. The Kokopelli Trail is a classic bikepacking route that spans 140 miles of rugged jeep roads and singletrack through some of the most captivating terrain in the area. Bikers most commonly ride the Kokopelli Trail southbound, starting at the Loma Trailhead and finishing in Moab. Ive used this inflatable pad for several years now. The Kokopelli Trail is a good first test. Ride, Eat, Sleep, Repeat Arizona Trail Race. Explore the best rated trails in Romulus, MI. Bikepackers camping along the Kokopelli trail, The singletrack section youll start on is some of the best mountain biking in the country, Descending out of the La Sal Mountain range into Moab is a particularly fun downhill, Many of the dirt roads are impassable after heavy rains. Patagonia Womens Nylon Capri Pants cut into shorts (discontinued). There are also ways to filter silty water using alum. Repair Shops & Related Services NEC. Although this trail has been completed in less than 11 hours and 14 minutes by pro cyclist Lachlan Morton, for the rest of us, we can expect to be out for 2-6 days depending on how many miles you want to cover each day. Traveling through remote canyon country, White Rim Road makes a 100-mile loop through the Island in the Sky district of Canyonlands National Park. It would also add another 1000 jolts to your wrists and spine, as this trail is very bumpy. Bedrock Cairns, which is the overall winner in our Best Hiking Sandals gear review. The closest large airport to the Kokopelli Trail is the Salt Lake City International Airport. We believe travel by bicycle has the power to encourage conservation, inclusivity, and respect for all people and cultures. No stove helped with space and water. Sand, dirt, gravel, slick rock, creek crossings, you name it. Unless youre camping in the La Sals, you likely wont encounter bears on the Kokopelli Trail. UPDATE (November, 2017): Apparently work is still going on and way behind as of 11/18/2017. Kokopelli 100 MTB Relay Same as the 140 but doesnt include the first 40 miles. Kokopelli Trail Guidebook from Bikerpelli, Trip Ideas, Where to Go, Backpacking Trip Guide, Backpacking Trip Ideas, Backpacking Trips, backpacking, backpacking trips, oregon trips, oregon, oregon coast, corvallis to sea, c2c trail, c2c, Backpacking Trip Ideas, Backpacking Trip Guide, Trip Ideas, Where to Go, where to go, Backpacking Trips, backpacking, backpacking trips, colorado, colorado backpacking, brandon lampley, Bikepacking the Lower Deschutes River Trail, Guide to Cycling the Great Allegheny Passage. Get your FREE backpacking checklist PDF here! Most rideable parts require at most intermediate-level mountain biking abilities. Our Best Mountain Bike Lights guide also covers other mountain bike-specific lights. This epic bikepacking adventure promises an incredible final descent as you wearily make your way into Moab. I'm just curious what the best is for bikepacking. If youre not from the area and want to see the Rocky Mountains you can fly into Denver International Airport (DIA), and rent a car. There will be small sections of optional singletrack along the way, but the jeep roads youll be riding through here are loose and sandy enough that you probably wont want more of a challenge. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission without costing you an extra cent. width:100%; width:100%; Bikepacking is exciting and rewarding form of off-pavement, adventure bike touring. Each issue features a collection of inspiring writing and beautiful photography. This variation would add approximately 14 miles to your trip. Kristina Ritchie (@get_terrestrial) Instagram photos and videos, .fca_eoi_form{ margin: auto; } .fca_eoi_form p { width: auto; } #fca_eoi_form_1856 input{ max-width: 9999px; }#fca_eoi_form_1856 .fca_eoi_layout_name_field_wrapper {display: none !important;}#fca_eoi_form_1856 .fca_eoi_layout_description_copy_wrapper {display: none !important;}.tooltipster-sidetip.tooltipster-borderless.tooltipster-optin-cat .tooltipster-box .tooltipster-content { color: #fff }.tooltipster-optin-cat.tooltipster-sidetip.tooltipster-top .tooltipster-arrow-border { border-top-color: #d63031 !important }.tooltipster-optin-cat.tooltipster-sidetip.tooltipster-bottom .tooltipster-arrow-border { border-bottom-color: #d63031 !important }.tooltipster-sidetip.tooltipster-borderless.tooltipster-optin-cat .tooltipster-box { background-color: #d63031 !important }.fca_eoi_layout_inputs_wrapper { background-color: unset !important }#fca_eoi_form_1856 .fca_eoi_form_input_element::-webkit-input-placeholder {opacity:0.6;color:#595252;}#fca_eoi_form_1856 .fca_eoi_form_input_element::-moz-placeholder {opacity:0.6;color:#595252;}#fca_eoi_form_1856 .fca_eoi_form_input_element:-ms-input-placeholder {opacity:0.6;color:#595252;}#fca_eoi_form_1856 .fca_eoi_form_input_element:-moz-placeholder {opacity:0.6;color:#595252;}#fca_eoi_form_1856 .fca_eoi_layout_15.fca_eoi_layout_widget div.fca_eoi_layout_submit_button_wrapper:hover, #fca_eoi_form_1856 .fca_eoi_layout_15.fca_eoi_layout_widget div.fca_eoi_layout_submit_button_wrapper input:hover {background-color:#b96701 !important;} Stepping away from the 9-5 lifestyle, discover the benefits of scaring yourself, and connect with nature to find meaning in everyday life. seeing another biker's footprint along the route where I had to hike-a-bike, going solo this felt like a small bit of camaraderie on the trail and always made me smile! Help could behours or days away! But, theres a still 17-mile 4,000-foot descent on dirt roads and singletrack trails between you and the end of the Kokopelli Trail. The Kokopelli Trail is not for beginner cyclists. As the leading creator and publisher of bikepacking routes, BIKEPACKING.com endeavors to maintain, improve, and advocate for our growing network of bikepacking routes all over the world. Thank you for supporting us! I personally cached water at Rabbit Valley, Colorado River/Dewey Bridge and at the bathrooms at the Fisher Valley Overlook. Heres what several members of our four-top riding group had to say: The Kokopelli Trail is a beautiful route winding from Fruita to Moab that combines primitive roads of all varieties with surprisingly technical single track to keep you guessing about what lies around each bend. Create an account to follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations. 7 Things to Do in Californias Alabama Hills: Movie Road, Hiking, Stargazing & More! Do your own research, know the route, options, and use proper judgement when out there. Find a detailed guide on the route below including parking, resupply and how to plan the perfect trip. Westwater Ranger Station is a short detour away at the T-junction after the short pavement section through Coal Draw. An epic view point along the Kokopelli Trail. We believe travel by bicycle has the power to encourage conservation, inclusivity, and respect for all people and cultures. Directions Advertisement. Over the next 50 miles, youll do a lot of climbing, but the next ten miles will be the steepest. Bikepacking Alliance is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com, Are you looking for a reliable and efficient fat bike to conquer muddy and snowy terrain? Another option is to check Craigslists ride share page for various cities where you think someone might be travel to or from Moab. There is a reliable stream in Castle Valley, just before the road climbs into the La Sals. I would have gladly traded out for either of those bikes when it the trail started getting a little chunkier. The Kokopelli Trail is divided into nine sections, each with its own unique terrain and scenery. The Kokopelli Trail (AKA Kokopelli's Trail) is a classic bikepacking route connecting the two mountain biking nerve centers of Fruita and Moab (1/3 of the total Grand Loop). Fingerless bike gloves. This ride is definitely not for the novice rider, the climbs and technical sections alone make it more for those with experience. At the top, youll get great views of Moab and the surrounding landscape. Image via Bureau of Land Management 1.Kokopelli Trail Trail Length: About 150 miles one-way Days to complete: 3-5 Riding : Mostly doubletrack and singletrack Kokopelli 100 MTB Individual Same as the 140 but doesnt include the first 40 miles. If youve learned a few things or have been entertained, consider becoming a Patreon member. ONE SHOULD ASSUME ALL WATER SOURCES TO BE DRY AND PLAN ACCORDINGLY. You carry all your gear on the bike, from food/water . Fisher Creek was flowing at mile 107.4 as well. Bikepacking: Off-Pavement Bicycling and camping where you would if you were to go backpacking. *By clicking submit, you're also subscribing to our email list. That was my fools attitude in spite of pedaling and adventuring in that corner of Utah for decades. The Kokopelli Trail is a popular ride between the Western Slope of Colorado and Moab in Utah. The Kokopelli Trail is an 136.4 milemulti use recreational trail that goes from Fruita, CO to Moab, UT. You'll receive an opt-in email before being added. Rock formations including arches and windows are a highlight of bikepacking the Kokopelli Trail. Water is a big challenge on the Kokopelli Trail. On the DiscoverMoab.com website there is a list of companies offering shuttle service to Grand Junction. You need to be logged in to use these features. #fca_eoi_form_1856 .fca_eoi_layout_15.fca_eoi_layout_widget div.fca_eoi_layout_submit_button_wrapper { Kokopelli 140 MTB Two-day Stage Event (Individual), https://oneofsevenproject.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/rsz_ce61a8f9-0b12-4e41-b403-e902df8f4593.jpg, http://oneofsevenproject.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/1of7-logo-lockup-grey-1132x212-300x56.png, https://oneofsevenproject.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/rsz_untitled_design_87.jpg, https://oneofsevenproject.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/AXOK3707.jpg, Gear Review - If I Rode the Kokopelli Trail Again, https://oneofsevenproject.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/rsz_untitled_design_81.jpg, https://oneofsevenproject.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Untitled-design-19.jpg, Gear Review - If I Rode the Arizona Trail Race Again, https://oneofsevenproject.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Untitled-design-9.jpg, Gear Review - If I Rode The Tour Divide Again. From the Loma exit (exit 15) off of I70 you travel west on the gravel road to the trailhead on the left. These are primitive campsites so dont expect much as far as amenities go. I found a trickle of cool, clear water at hideout spring (find the cottonwoods!!) We completed the Kokopelli trail in three challenging, rewarding days of bike riding. Find our Kokopelli Trail route guide here. } You may try and see if one would drop you back off in Fruita. We create reader-supported, objective, independently-selected gear reviews. #fca_eoi_form_1856 .fca_eoi_layout_15.fca_eoi_layout_widget div.fca_eoi_layout_email_field_wrapper { This is certainly not a trip for. Moab Motorsports does ask that you let them know youre leaving your car with them ahead of time. You might be able to get water from a spigot here, but dont count on it. Water at BLM ranger station at mile 48 is not fit to drink, filter from river. Look no further than the new 2023 Trek Farley 5, a sure-footed bike designed with strength and comfort in.