Gold Bar Rim: Moab's Technical Test of Skill

Quick Facts

Taking riders through the heart of Moab, Utah, Gold Bar Rim offers a challenging biking experience that stretches over 3.3 miles of rugged terrain.

• Distance: 3.3 mi
• Level: Difficult
• Route Type: Point to Point
• City: Moab
• State: Utah

Riding the Gold Bar Rim

Gold Bar Rim is a jeep trail, laden with sand and a plethora of step-ups. While the trail promises a dynamic ride, it's essential to follow the cairns, signs, and particularly the blue dots or the Gold Spike jeep trail once the rim is reached. Riders seeking extended adventures can opt to link this trail with either the Poison Spider or Portal Trail, creating a comprehensive one-way shuttle ride.For advanced riders, this trail delivers an adrenaline-filled experience, complete with intricate technical challenges. With myriad rock lines to navigate, the route often reveals itself only when riders are inches away. While certain sections flaunt some exposure, it's nowhere near as daunting as the Portal. Notably, the trail, which was once off-limits, has undergone rerouting in parts to safeguard raptor nesting habitats and fine-tune the route for cyclists. Look out for the orange dashes on rocks - these serve as the trail's primary markers.For those less acquainted with such intricate technical demands, expect to walk through several short sections. By the trail's end, riders can either choose the intensity of Portal or the more relaxed, albeit sandy, Poison Spider route. It's crucial to differentiate between the Golden Spike Jeep Road and Gold Bar Rim Singletrack, with the former being far more taxing and not advisable for mountain bikers.

Getting to the Trail

Starting from Moab, riders should head north on HWY 191 for an approximate 5 miles. The trail is conveniently situated on the right (west).

Cyclist's Take

• Terrain Insights: Predominantly a mix of fire roads and slick rock, Gold Bar Rim is sprinkled with technical challenges. However, even intermediate riders, armed with a hike-a-bike approach, can conquer this trail. The surrounding vistas make every effort worthwhile.
• Rider Experiences: Many have ventured onto this trail as a part of the 'Magnificent 7' shuttle ride. While uphill segments lead to captivating lookouts, the descent promises its own thrills. First-timers, especially on newer bikes, might find a few sections demanding enough to dismount.
• Bike Choices: The trail conditions can be demanding. While some daredevils have managed with hardtails without front shocks, it's arguably not the ideal choice for the Gold Bar Rim, or Moab in general.

In Conclusion

Gold Bar Rim, with its distinct challenges and sweeping views, offers riders a genuine Moab biking experience. Whether pushing technical limits or soaking in the desert's beauty, this trail promises memories that last a lifetime. Always remember: while the trail beckons, safety remains paramount.