Things to do nearMoab Brands (Bar M) National Recreation Trail

The Bar M National Recreation Trail sits on Bureau of Land Management land just north of Moab, Utah, tracing a broad loop across the Colorado Plateau's characteristic red-dirt benchland. The route has long served as a gentle gateway into canyon-country riding, drawing families, beginners, and seasoned cyclists who want a mellow spin framed by dramatic geology.

On the trail, wide doubletrack passes through open stands of Utah juniper and big sagebrush, with the La Sal Mountains visible to the southeast and the broken sandstone country of the Colorado Plateau stretching in every direction. The terrain is mostly flat to gently rolling, making it manageable on a variety of bikes and suitable for riders of all ages. A few sandy patches reward riders who keep momentum, and the quiet of the desert benchland is a welcome contrast to Moab's busier trails.

For those looking to extend the adventure, nearby Arches National Park is just a short drive away and rewards an afternoon visit after the ride. Moab itself offers a full range of post-ride dining and gear shops along its compact main corridor. Guided bike tours operating out of Moab frequently include the Bar M area in their itineraries for guests new to the region.

The Bar M National Recreation Trail earns its place on any Moab itinerary as an honest, unhurried look at the Colorado Plateau at its most open and inviting.