Our advice: Make this your first Moab ride. Slickrock’s fame comes well-deserved. The trail rolls up, over, down, and around a big playground of sandstone domes. The trail markers are painted right on the rock--just follow the dotted line.

If you’re unsure about this trail, ride the practice loop a third of a mile in on the right. Otherwise, continue along the undulating sandstone as the scenery beyond the mesa pops in and out of view. Roll by Abyss Canyon at mile 1.5; turn left at mile 2.3 to go clockwise on the lollipop loop. Locals say this direction is easier, with more climbing in the beginning (while your legs are fresh) and more downhill at the end.

Climb along a ridge overlooking Moab Valley and the Portal. A short side trip at the end of the ridge (mile 4) goes to Portal Viewpoint; the spur to Panorama Viewpoint is just beyond. Next, tear down to the cliffs over the Colorado River as you catch glimpses of Arches National Park. Look for the snowy La Sal Mountains between the steep climbs and brake-burning descents as you head southeast toward the trailhead.

Rating: Intermediate to Hard. The key to Slickrock fun is friction. You'll be amazed what your tires will stick to, both up and down the steeply rolling rock. This trail rewards bravado, demands quick anaerobic spurts, and guarantees nervous laughter on the steepest climbs. Allow about 3 to 4 hours to finish this loop. Slickrock Trail is located in the Sand Flats Recreation Area, which requires a fee for entry.

-Mapped by Gene Poncelet

TO TRAILHEAD: From Main St. in Moab, head east on 3rd St for .4 mile and turn right on S. 4th St. In .1 mile turn left on Mill Creek Dr. Go .5 mile and continue straight on Sand Flats Rd. for another 2.4 miles to trailhead.