Utah is famously known for its breathtaking landscapes and national parks that dot the southern part of the state. Visiting these exquisite locals, like the millions of tourists do is fine and dandy, but one of the best ways to enjoy the land is via bike. Thousands of trails designated for hikers and bikers wind through canyons and across red desert stretches, but one trail stands out among the others for backpacking trips or long bike tours; the White Rim Trail.
Coming in at just around 100 miles long, the White Rim Trail is a loop that provides a wide array of challenges and rewards, and is best done over the course of several days. The trail will pass into Canyonlands National park, so you will be required to obtain a backcountry permit. Plan ahead by reserving yours online well in advance, as they are quite popular and tend to go pretty fast. The Canyonlands is a pretty rugged place, and sometimes it looks and feels more like you are on Mars than your home planet. Spring and fall months are the best time to go, and be prepared for temperature dips at night, as the lowest point in the trail is just under 4000 feet, and the upper sections are much higher, where you could even experience snow.
You will have to be entirely self-sufficient on the trip, as there are no resources available throughout the entire trek, save for a the Green River, which is along your path at about the 66th mile. You can refill your water stores at the river, but it is advised to have filtration or purification systems with you to do this. Other than nature’s aqueous reprieve, you will have to carry your own supply of water and food for your entire trip. While it is possible to have a support vehicle meet you, the trail is fairly rugged, and requires serious 4×4 action to access most areas. Make sure to account for enough water for consumption as well as cooking, and in dry seasons, make sure to look into the status of the river before going. Along the way there are numerous campsite options that offer stunning views of nearby canyons or geographic wonders like spires or arches. A safe and enjoyable way to experience this is with a tour with Escape Adventures.
The trail begins on the namesake “White Rim” at a visitor center, which is a little above 6000 feet in elevation. Quickly the path descends and winds downwards. The path will continue to sport alternating uphill and downhill sections as you make a clockwise loop (as is recommended). You will rise up onto small saddles before descending again, which will continue on for 60 or so odd miles. No matter how many mini climbs you do, the views will never cease to amaze you. With about 20 or so miles to go, you will begin the punishing ascent to the finish. The ending views and sense of accomplishment will be the cherry on top of a sweet, sweet ice cream sundae that is the White Trim Trail.
With its corporate headquarters in Las Vegas, Nevada, Escape Adventures has more than 25 years of experience and more than 50 destinations around the globe. The company is a worldwide leader in environmentally friendly biking and multi-sport adventure tours.
Since 1992, we at Escape Adventures have been blessed to shape and lead adventure travel vacations through some of the most awe-inspiring natural destinations in the world. Each successive season, our passion for adventure grows through memorable moments with our guests. Fresh air, faith, fitness and friends are the building blocks for our ventures, the treasured experiences that keep us moving forward. For those of you who have trekked and traveled with us over the past quarter century, Heather and I express our sincerest gratitude. The memories are priceless.
