kokopelli trail bikepacking kokopelli trail bikepacking

sounds like a great trip! Be sure to stop at Milts as you enter town for a milkshake. Directions Advertisement. Ride, Eat, Sleep, Repeat Arizona Trail Race. The Kokopelli Trail ends in the Slickrock area on the east end of Moab, UT. @media screen and ( max-width: 100% ) { While riding, obey all public and private land use restrictions and rules, carry proper safety and navigational equipment, and of course, follow the #leavenotrace guidelines. With hubs at the airport, United and Southwest will have the most flight options. RECOMMENDED ROUTE Difficult. The second time was so good that I bikepacked the Kokopelli again. It is a pullover but has a zip on the side and at the front which makes it very easy to pull on and off keeping hats or helmets in place during the transition. 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. Also only split up in 2-4 segments. The Kokopelli Trail starts out on some single track affording beautiful views of the Colorado River. Part of the magnificent 142-mile Kokopelli Trail. Returning on 3-inch tires, I had a much more difficult time on those sandy sections. More. Experience a multitude of terrains and landscapes on a trail that links two of the most coveted mountain biking areas in the country. This ride is definitely not for the novice rider, the climbs and technical sections alone make it more for those with experience. Our first time bikepacking the Kokopelli trail was a humbling failure, but also an appreciative win.This short bikepacking documentary shows the metaphorical. Fingerless bike gloves. The trail was named in honor of its mythic muse, Kokopelli. If you are thinking about bikepacking the Kokopelli Trail this guide will give you the information and insight you need for a successful trip to one of the most spectacular bike trails out there. 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? BIKEPACKING.com is dedicated to exploration by bicycle. If youre flying from out of town, I recommend you rent a car and spend a day caching water (or pay a guiding company to cache water for you, though I dont know of any that specifically offer that service). No suspension, just a set of 50c tires squeezed on there, and man it was awesome but truth be told I think it would have been even more enjoyable on a hardtail with a front shock at the very least. As you get near the top of the final climb, the number of tourists youll see will make you feel like youre already in Moab. Over the Edge bike shop suggests people park behind Suds Brothers Brewery at 127 E Aspen Ave, Fruita, CO 81521. 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). The ride is not for the novice rider, the climbs and technical sections alone make it more for those with a bit more experience. The 142-mile multi-use trail stretches from Loma, Colorado all the way to Moab, UT. I have experienced extremely high winds and snowstorms in the high desert regions of Colorado and Utah, and this tent always holds up well. Bikepacking has taken the mountain bike world by storm, with the upper echelon of bikepackers continuing to shatter time barriers and pioneer incredible . Look no further than the new 2023 Trek Farley 5, a sure-footed bike designed with strength and comfort in. There is a reliable stream in Castle Valley, just before the road climbs into the La Sals. I love the Bar M Trails just outside town for their flowy singletrack trail goodness. We have over 300 original and curated bikepacking routes in our global network spanning nearly 50 countries. Thanks, me too!! 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. There are some steep climbs on this trail with the payoff being some exhilarating descents. Possibly one of the most well-known bikepacking routes in the USA (if not North America), the Kokopelli Trail is one of the best ways to explore the beautiful Colorado and Utah desert on your own two After a day of waiting for the roads to dry, we bailed to the interstate, which was luckily still nearby. Bikepacking with dogsIs this a good idea? Water options while bikepacking the Kokopelli Trail: There are not too many reliable water sources on this trail so its important to plan accordingly. The Kokopelli's Trail (also known as the Kokopelli Trail) is a 142-mile (229 km) multi-use trail (but primarily used by mountain bikes) in Grand County, Utah and Mesa County, Colorado in the western United States. The Kokopelli Trail is a 143-mile desert bikepacking route that connects Fruita, Colorado, in western Colorado and Moab, Utah. Click on any trail below to find trail descriptions, trail maps, photos, and reviews. From there, the trail traverses through the Cottonwood Canyon, Beaver Mesa, and all La Sal Loop sections leading up to your final stretch. There is one option for airlines and two car rental: GJT is the closest airport that has a reasonable cost and minimal logistics . 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. I was being silly: the Kokopelli is a tremendously satisfying and fun bikepack, from the mildly technical and impossibly beautiful singletrack out of Fruita, to soaring grinding climbs, red desert canyons, rugged sandstone ridges, to the must-not-skip roaring bucking descent on Porcupine Rim down to Moab. This Kokopelli Trail Guide was put together for people like you, in hopes it would make taking that first step of planning easier and get you on the trail faster. The Kokopelli Trail is part of the larger Grand Loop. Kaitlyns finish time was 13 hours and 7 minutes, the new womens FKT. Each issue features a collection of inspiring writing and beautiful photography. Planned for 3 nights but the first half went quicker than I expected! 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. On the DiscoverMoab.com website there is a list of companies offering shuttle service to Grand Junction. From the Loma exit (exit 15) you travel west on the gravel road to the trailhead on the left. } Most of your riding will be on dirt and paved roads, with some singletrack thrown in for good measure. Knowing what to expect as far as water sources, weather forecast, trail condition, and detours, are going to be key to having the best possible outcome. You can camp almost everywhere along the route, too. I create technical resources, reviews, inspirational videos, how-to guides and more. You will be looking for East Mill Creek Drive which turns into Sand Flats Rd The Trail: The Kokopelli Trail is part of the Grand loop, a bikepacking route that combines the Kokopelli Trail, Paradox Trail and Tabegauche Trail. I have attempted the Kokpelli 3 times and completed it twice. Over the next 50 miles, youll do a lot of climbing, but the next ten miles will be the steepest. } to support us + get The Bikepacking Journal. On my most recent Kokopelli bikepacking trip, my group drove from Denver in two vehicles. The race includes the following categories: Kokopelli 100 Ultra Marathon Individual 104 miles with 11k of climbing, Kokopelli 100 Ultra Marathon Relay same course as the individual but with 2 to 4 people. With more than 10,000 feet of total climbing, the highest point on the trail tops out at over 8,000 ft above sea level. Its reliable, keeps me warm, and Thermarests lifetime warranty is no joke. In spite of the fact that this route, associated GPS track (GPX and maps), and all route guidelines were prepared under diligent research by the specified contributor and/or contributors, the accuracy of such and judgement of the author is not guaranteed. It would also add another 1000 jolts to your wrists and spine, as this trail is very bumpy. Would it be foolish to try to ride the Kokopelli Trail on a gravel bike? Grand Junction also has a regional airport and car rental options for caching water. Start at our worldwide routes map to dig into our detailed guides with GPS maps and inspiring photography. As soon as you hit the pavement in Moab, youll see Milts Stop N Eat, where you can get a milkshake, fries, and a burger. South L, CA. Packing: I learned a lot from my first trip last year and made it work without a seat bag which was so nice to have full use of my dropper post on the descents. Shopping with our affiliates helps fund the development of content like this. Tired of seeing ads on every web page you visit? We cover other lighting options in our Best Headlamps guide. Go out with a spirit of excitement and return with a sense of accomplishment. Terms of Use: As with each bikepacking route guide published on BIKEPACKING.com, should you choose to cycle this route, do so at your own risk. We create reader-supported, objective, independently-selected gear reviews. I'm going to be riding into Moab towards the end of June or early July. The Loma Trailhead is west of Fruita, Colorado, along Interstate I-70. Knowing what to expect as far as water sources, weather forecast, trail condition, and detours, are going to be key to having the best possible outcome. The Koko box is checked and we've got our sights on searching for what is next. After at least 6 failed attempts in the mid-1990s, Gary became the first to ride the 140-mile-long Kokopelli Trail self-supported in one day. Whether you're looking for an easy walking trail or a bike trail like the University/Parks Trail and Clinton River Park Trail. BIKEPACKING.com is dedicated to exploration by bicycle. The allure of the bigger Grand Loop caught Dye's intrigue. Get your FREE backpacking checklist PDF here! Three mountain bik. Expect the route to take the average person 3-5 days, with many strenuous sections. As the snow melted, those clay-heavy dirt roads became unrideable. I rode the latter half on a Monday and Tuesday and I think this really helped with traffic, not sure what this would have looked like on a weekend but I think it's worth it if you can go during the week! For more recommendations, see our Best Mountain Bike Helmet guide. A big storm can leave you stranded on unrideable dirt roads of sticky, peanut butter mud that will stop your wheels from turning. The trail presses on through Fish Ford and the ride becomes more arduous as you climb away from the Colorado River. Do your own research, know the route, options, and use proper judgement when out there. Moab Express provides shuttle service from Moab to the start of the Kokopelli Trail at Loma Trailhead. The Local Overnighters Project is a unified effort to document and map one-night bikepacking routes all over the worldby locals, in their own backyards. RECOMMENDED ROUTE Difficult. } 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;} This variation would add approximately 14 miles to your trip. We inspire and inform through original bikepacking routes, stories, and coverage of the gear, news, and events that make our community thrive. Repair Shops & Related Services NEC. After a climb to the infamous Castle Valley Road to the summit, youll be graced with an amazing descent with stunning views of Castle Valley as you make your way into Moab. #fca_eoi_form_1856 .fca_eoi_layout_15.fca_eoi_layout_widget div.fca_eoi_layout_name_field_wrapper { Ive done this using collapsible water jugs, but it takes time and extra equipment. Unless youre camping in the La Sals, you likely wont encounter bears on the Kokopelli Trail. 7 Things to Do in Californias Alabama Hills: Movie Road, Hiking, Stargazing & More! Patagonia Womens Nylon Capri Pants cut into shorts (discontinued). Every time I reach this point of the trail, I wonder if Ive taken a wrong turn, but then I check a map, realize Im on the route and laugh at myself for choosing to do this. 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). The Kokopelli Trail starts near Loma, Colorado which is about 15 miles west of Grand Junction. We recognize Indigenous Peoples as the traditional stewards of this land. The Kokopelli is world-class bikepacking. You can rent a full bikepacking setup from Bike Fiend in Moab. Youll know youve completed the Kokopelli Trail when you hit the pavement; then, its time to celebrate. The Kokopelli Trail is an 136.4 mile multi use recreational trail that goes from Fruita, CO to Moab, UT. It will take about half a day to cache water and drive back to either end of the Kokopelli. width:100%; Transportation Services. These are primitive campsites so dont expect much as far as amenities go. Fruita and Moab are full-service towns with grocery stores, restaurants, and cafes. There are long stretches of challenging desert riding, and those new to the sport will find it very challenging. (mens and womens & nobo and sobo available). This bucket-list bikepacking trip is an adventure of the soul and a test of your commitment. Its a condensed version of my bigger bikepacking guides, which include the Arizona Trail, Tour Divide and Colorado Trail. 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 from 2-6 days depending on how many miles you want to cover each day. One consideration is to bring a portable water filter and tank up from the Colorado River whenever possible. The Kokopelli Trail crosses the Colorado River and ends at Moabs Slickrock area. Looking to start bikepacking? The Rando is a favorite in our Touring Bike Gear List. Parts of the trail are used by jeeps, ATVs, and motorcycles. 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. This is certainly not a trip for. I feel comfortable riding easier "blues" on my gravel bike and try to incorporate singletrack into my rides - but I'm just not sure how technical the riding gets on the trail. I would probably avoid doing it on anything skinnier than 2" tires, But some of you gravel grinders are pretty hard core so IDK. Help could behours or days away! That was my fools attitude in spite of pedaling and adventuring in that corner of Utah for decades. Specialized Tactic bike helmet. Although the route can be ridden in either direction, but most prefer a southwest flow from Fruita to Moab which enables a legendary finale down Porcupine Rim. I brought an Ultimate Direction Ultra Rain Jacket for this trip. If it werent for that snowstorm after the first day, we would have found ourselves far out there, fruitlessly attempting to filter water from the silty Colorado River, slowed down immensely by the gravel bike that wasnt enough bike for the terrain. At times the Kokopelli Trail can serve up demanding single track and steep climbs, makingit a trail not to be underestimated. Once youre in the La Sals, youll probably find a stream or two to collect water from. There was some water new Onion Creek Hideout CG during my attempt the end of April 2016. Its a high-quality down quilt that has reliably kept me warm for 1000s of trail miles. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission without costing you an extra cent. The trail runs through Mesa County, Colorado, and Grand County in Utah. We inspire and inform through original bikepacking routes, stories, and coverage of the gear, news, and events that make our community thrive. The riding is primarily non-technical dirt roads and Jeep double track, but it is about 15% singletrack. Water at BLM ranger station at mile 48 is not fit to drink, filter from river. Use the Brave browser for an entirely ad free web experience. You can access the Colorado River from here, though. Kokopelli Trail Planning Aids Tour Divide Planning Aids Bikepacking Survey Results Data Collages Hiking Hiking Guides Pemi Loop Guide Hiking Gear My Proven Triple Crown Hiking Gear List If I Hiked Again Gear Review - If I Hiked The Appalachian Trail Again Gear Review - If I Hiked The Long Trail Again @media screen and ( max-width: 100% ) { CNY is closest airport but also the most expensive and with the most limited options. There are a few bailout options along the way. We are proud to be independent and reader-supported. *This video is for the AZTR but the information is universal. Find an extra-long weekend and do this ride. Joe Cruz (Pedaling in Place), Kokopelli taught me the length of a desert mile. You can also get your bike repaired at Over The Edge in Fruita. The trail runs through Mesa County, Colorado, and Grand County in Utah. Starting with the Ruby Canyon Section, youll continue on through Rabbit Valley, Westwater, Fish Ford, and Yellow Jacket Canyon sections. The Kokopelli has very few water sources along the route. Continuing through the Marys Loop area, youll leave the river and parallel Mack Ridge before the river returns along with views of the Black Ridge Canyons. You need to be logged in to use these features. The desert views youll experience along the route are to notch. In terms of ride-a-bility the Kokopelli offers plenty of it and very little HAB. A mix of dirt roads, desert Jeep tracks, and singletrack trails, Good fitness levels and intermediate mountain biking technical abilities required, The route is almost entirely on BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land with lots of great camping on public land, Caching water is almost a requirement to bikepack the Kokopelli Trail self-supported, The Kokopelli trail connects singletrack, Jeep roads, and dirt roads following the Colorado River. The next closest would be Grand Junction or Salt Lake City (SLC). From there, the trail traverses through the Cottonwood Canyon, Beaver Mesa, and all La Sal Loop sections leading up to your final stretch. 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. I'm just curious what the best is for bikepacking. Lael Wilcox, Kaitlyn Boyle, and Kurt Refsnider set off together early Friday morning on the Kokopelli Trail for a self-supported time trial between Loma, Colorado and Moab, Utah.