The Kokopelli Trail is a difficult bikepacking trail. The Kokopelli Trail spreads from Loma, Colorado, to Moab, Utah, over 142 exciting miles! Or toss some spare change inthe PayPal tip jar. It will take about half a day to cache water and drive back to either end of the Kokopelli. You need to be logged in to use these features. For some time now the Kokopelli was without an official race on the calendar. Top Rated Routes. There are long stretches of challenging desert riding, and those new to the sport will find it very challenging. Our Best Mountain Bike Lights guide also covers other mountain bike-specific lights. Ive used this inflatable pad for several years now. The Kokopelli Trail is relatively well marked, but you still need strong navigation abilities. Nowhere else can you find scenery quite like this! 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 Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. This trailhead is where the Kokopelli Trail starts and is even a location on Google maps now. With 150 miles of gravel hike-and-bike trail, the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP Trail) is one of the Easts best pathways, perfect for leisurely bike rides. There are very few reliable water options available along the Kokopelli Trail. Many of the BLM campgrounds lining the trail do not have water, or if they do its not potable. On the 142-mile Kokopelli's Trail, a group of bikepackers race against dusk on Porcupine Rim, a. YOUR ULTIMATE BIKEPACKING GUIDE TO THE KOKOPELLI. What about wind breaker? It connects some of the best singletrack around in Fruita and Moab with 100 miles of ATV roads. You dont need any permits to bikepack the Kokopelli Trail. Did you happen to see any of the folks attempting to set the FKT for it out there? You risk getting caught in a winter storm if you go early in spring or late in fall. 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 142-mile multi-use trail stretches from Loma, Colorado all the way to Moab, UT. The last time I was there, I was told that the pipes were contaminated with E. Coli. We have over 300 original and curated bikepacking routes in our global network spanning nearly 50 countries. Kokopelli Trail (Bikepacking Route + Porcupine Rim) location Utah, USA We recognize Indigenous Peoples as the traditional stewards of this land. After the first 20 miles of singletrack, youll ride about 30 miles of dirt roads through Rabbit Valley, Castle Rocks, and Coal Draw. The Kokopelli Trail is divided into nine sections, each with its own unique terrain and scenery. You'll receive an opt-in email before being added. With more than 61 trails covering 486 miles you're bound to find a perfect trail for you. Bikepacking is exciting and rewarding form of off-pavement, adventure bike touring. Learn more. I did it last fall on a rigid MTB with 29x2.3 tires. I think with as much sand and slickrock that I encountered my answer to you in short would be, yes, foolish to try this on a gravel bike, coming from a mountainbiker who has no idea what a gravel bike is capable of. I recommend using an Ursack as well, just in case. 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. A section of the trail, the Kokopelli Singletrack, begins just outside the . We believe travel by bicycle has the power to encourage conservation, inclusivity, and respect for all people and cultures. 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 We are proud to be independent and reader-supported. The full list of serves includes: SLC is an international airport so there are a few options. The route is popular as a 2- to 3-night bikepacking trip, a 3- to 4-day vehicle-supported trip, and as a . We look forward to sharing the natural splendor of Crosswinds through our interpretive programming, activities and future exhibits. 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. This incredibly scenic trail takes you along the Colorado Plateau and through colorful stretches of Utah as well as in and out of valleys. 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. Enlightened Equipment Torrid puffy jacket. These are primitive campsites so dont expect much as far as amenities go. Fingerless bike gloves. The Kokopelli Trail begins with ~15 miles of singletrack above the Colorado River before a few dozen miles of 44 tracks, gravel roads, and two-tracks through badlands and over ledgey mesas before crossing the Colorado River at Dewey Bridge. This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. 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 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. #fca_eoi_form_1856 .fca_eoi_layout_15.fca_eoi_layout_widget div.fca_eoi_layout_email_field_wrapper { 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? This variation would add approximately 14 miles to your trip. 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. At times the Kokopelli Trail can serve up demanding single track and steep climbs, makingit a trail not to be underestimated. Explore the best rated trails in Romulus, MI. 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. The Kokopelli Trail is a 142-mile desert bikepacking route linking the mountain biking epicenters of Fruita, Colorado, and Moab, Utah. There are unmarked turns, and its not always easy to see the brown carsonite trail markers at junctions. Order Online. Its best to ride the Kokopelli Trail in the Spring and Fall. I have bikepacked the Kokopelli on a fat bike with 5-inch tires and a plus bike with 3-inch tires. Click here to login, or start an account if youre not yet a member of the Bikepacking Collective. This epic bikepacking adventure promises an incredible final descent as you wearily make your way into Moab. The information found herein is simply a planning resource to be usedas a point of inspirationin conjunction with your own due-diligence. By accepting all cookies, you agree to our use of cookies to deliver and maintain our services and site, improve the quality of Reddit, personalize Reddit content and advertising, and measure the effectiveness of advertising. 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. Bikepacking: Off-Pavement Bicycling and camping where you would if you were to go backpacking. 28685 Smith Rd Romulus MI 48174 (734) 326-9801. More flag On Ute Land Distance 158 Mi. The Kokopelli Trail starts outside Fruita, Colorado, on some of the best singletrack in the Mountain West. I'm going to be riding into Moab towards the end of June or early July. There are also ways to filter silty water using alum. There was some water new Onion Creek Hideout CG during my attempt the end of April 2016. Ive used the National Geographic Maps Moab North and Colorado National Monument for paper maps. #fca_eoi_form_1856 .fca_eoi_layout_15.fca_eoi_layout_widget div.fca_eoi_layout_submit_button_wrapper { If you finished on a weekend you could try and hitch but finding a ride with an open rack and empty seat could prove difficult. Find our Kokopelli Trail route guide here. Bikepacking has taken the mountain bike world by storm, with the upper echelon of bikepackers continuing to shatter time barriers and pioneer incredible . The Kokopelli Trail starts out on some single track affording beautiful views of the Colorado River. Cant say much for Kokopelli but I just did the White Rim trail (which is quite close by) on my gravel bike. What puffy jacket do you use? 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. 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. The Ogre is one of our favorite bikepacking bikes in our Best Bikepacking Bikes guide, MYOG clone of the Swift Industries Zeitgeist, Our tent set up for bike camping on the Kokopelli Trail, MSR Pocket Rocket 2 stove, which is the overall winner in our Best Backpacking Stoves guide, Toaks 750 mL pot, which is the overall winner in our Best Backpacking Cookpot guide. Planned for 3 nights but the first half went quicker than I expected! 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). From there, youll be closer to the start of the Kokopelli Trail. Auto Repair. More here. This epic bikepacking adventure promises an incredible final descent as you wearily make your way into Moab. Find a detailed guide on the route below including parking, resupply and how to plan the perfect trip. The Kokopelli Trail is a 143-mile desert bikepacking route that connects Fruita, Colorado, in western Colorado and Moab, Utah. Find details on their records alongside a few photos taken by Rugile Kaladyte here, Photos by Rugile Kaladyte (@rugilekaladyte). That first ride took him 23 hours, and soon after, he rode the trail in the opposite direction in just 17 hours. 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. The trail ends in the Sand Flats section which takes you from Porcupine Rim to Slickrock. There is some water along the route, but not enough to forego caching water unless you can carry enough water for 2 days. Reddit and its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a better experience. Ultimate Arizona Trail Bikepacking Planning Guide, Gear Review If I Rode the Arizona Trail Race Again, Gear Review If I Rode the Colorado Trail Race Again, Gear Review If I Rode the Kokopelli Trail Again, Gear Review If I Rode The Tour Divide Again, Gear Review If I Hiked The Appalachian Trail Again, Gear Review If I Hiked The Long Trail Again, Gear Review If I Hiked the Pacific Crest Trail Again, Gear Review If I hiked the Continental Divide Trail Again, Gear Review If I Hiked the Colorado Trail Again. The other two in the party were on a hardtail and a rigid fatbike. For more recommendations of puffy jackets, see our Best Down Jackets or Best Synthetic Jacket guides. Know your body and how much water you require and plan carefully. Another option is to have friends deliver water to you along the route or stash some yourself beforehand wherever possible. Nowhere else can you find scenery quite like this! The road is scheduled to open on weekends after May 27th. Kokopelli 140 MTB Relay A choice your own adventure. South L, CA. 7 Things to Do in Californias Alabama Hills: Movie Road, Hiking, Stargazing & More! I am a bikepacking addict who also happens to be an above knee amputee. The Kokopelli Trail is a special route, and whether youre looking to tackle it in a single day or spread it out over a long weekend, its definitely one worth adding to the bucket list. I would have gladly traded out for either of those bikes when it the trail started getting a little chunkier. It's our goal to supply the best resources, guides, gear lists, data sheets, town lists, and more to help others realize and follow their passion. There are not too many reliable water sources on this trail so its important to plan accordingly. This Site and our mobile application contain links to affiliate websites, and we receive an affiliate commission for any purchases made by you on the affiliate website using such links. There are no resupply options along the route. Once youre in the La Sals, youll probably find a stream or two to collect water from. Kokopelli 140 MTB Individual 144 miles, full course, alone! The old railroad follows beautiful waterways, weaving around Allegheny mountains and hills. Ive made it on the dirt road to Fisher Valley in a Subaru, but a sedan wouldn't make it there. See a problem? This page is divide up in simple sections to give you information in easily digestible bites. In terms of ride-a-bility the Kokopelli offers plenty of it and very little HAB. There are unmarked turns, and its not always easy to see the brown carsonite trail markers at junctions. I create technical resources, reviews, inspirational videos, how-to guides and more. 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. Kurts finish time was 10 hours and 56 minutes. The Bikepacking Journal is our biannual printed publication. Please keep the conversation civil, constructive, and inclusive, or your comment will be removed. Click here to login, or start an account if youre not yet a member of the Bikepacking Collective, to support us + get The Bikepacking Journal. Checkout the Colorado Trail Transportation Guide for train options if you want to fly into Denver and take the train to Grand Junction. To learn more Click Here. Riding the trail on a fat bike, I hardly noticed the extensive sections of sandy desert Jeep roads. Water options while bikepacking the Kokopelli Trail: There are not too many reliable water sources on this trail so its important to plan accordingly. Aid stations rough every 8 miles. Kokopelli 100 MTB Relay Same as the 140 but doesnt include the first 40 miles. Bikepacking is generally in the backcountry, but you can backpack on local trails. We inspire and inform through original bikepacking routes, stories, and coverage of the gear, news, and events that make our community thrive. From the Loma exit (exit 15) you travel west on the gravel road to the trailhead on the left. Get your FREE backpacking checklist PDF here! It's my one and only and it's so fun everywhere I take it. *This video is for the AZTR but the information is universal. It's a marin pine mountain 2 but I don't think they make the purple anymore sadly. 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. Thanks for your support! There is some concern with possible theft but it worked out fine for me. On the DiscoverMoab.com website there is a list of companies offering shuttle service to Grand Junction. Group size must be limited to 12 people or less. Nowhere else can you find scenery quite like this! See our gear review of the Best Lightweight Rain Jackets for other recommendations. width:100%; This section is beautiful though; theres nothing like moving in and out of desert and mountain terrain and skirting along the Estrada Bluffs. There are some pretty steep climbs on this trail with the payoff being some exhilarating descents. From here, the climb into the La Sal Mountains starts in earnest. Simply clicking on the links below with our affiliates supports the Project. BIKEPACKING.com is dedicated to exploration by bicycle. So, long story short yes I bet you could absolutely do it, but no I probably wouldn't recommend it. Hi, Im Phil. In total you will ride for 142 miles and there are a few bailout options along the way should you need to. The first time I attempted the trail in a group, we werent fully prepared and bailed. We completed the Kokopelli trail in three challenging, rewarding days of bike riding. Ive even seen some water flowing in the fall around here. NO PERSONAL WATERCRAFT ARE ALLOWED IN CROSSWINDS MARSH. The experience was humbling and quite challenging. Bikepacking with dogsIs this a good idea? We were caught in a late March snowstorm and spent the day in a cave, watching the snow pile up. Three mountain bik. Since it was first designed the Porcupine Rim Trail has been built which means you have the option of making it 150+ miles. There are not too many reliable water sources on this trail so its important to plan accordingly. I hope you have fun out there in a few weeks! Water: I stashed in Rabbit Valley and filtered from the Colorado (tasted only sliiightly of mud) which really was fine and clear after wrapping a bandanna around the intake. If you were to start in Moab and ride north, you would begin with a nearly 20-mile, 4,000-foot climb.