White Rim LayOver 7-day MTB/Hike Tour
Canyonlands National Park
This very special CUSTOM White Rim Trail 7-day LayOver MTB/Hike Tour in Canyonlands National Park has unique bonuses in the itinerary; it has three LAYOVER camps! 6 nights in only 3 camps, affords us the time to explore the vastness of the area from each camp. We’ll lead big layover day excursions by foot [sometimes riding the MTBs to access trailheads from camp]. We’ll circumnavigate the WR sandstone shelf above the Colorado River from Gooseberry camp, hike to the pour-off “under the ledge” above the Green River from the White Crack camp, and visit the Fort Bottom Ruin and the Cowboy Cabin at river level from Potato Bottom camp.
Suitable for adventurers in good physical condition and able to ride or hike for 4-7 hours a day, this trip delves deeper into an enormously scenic national treasure. We’ll travel by bike & foot through canyons with towering sandstone cliffs and ancient layers of rock containing fossils and petrified wood to those distant “places” in the landscape through a labyrinth of undulating canyons where you’ll feel the remoteness of the Classic Wild West!
Dates: 4/24/2022 Sunday
Tour Overview:
This trip is yours for riding, hiking slot canyons, viewing ancient ruins, taking a dip in the river, sleeping out under the stars or just kicking back at camp and taking in the spectacular views. Our meals are delicious, and our Guides are seasoned experts who will help you make this the best week of riding you’ve ever had!
Available for Charter Trip Dates only
Duration: 5-day MTB Tour
Included in cost:
- Food – lunch on the first day to lunch on the last day
- Guides
- Support Vehicle
- Shuttles
- National Park fees, including campsites
* Optional add-ons (not included in cost)
- Full suspension MTB rentals
- Camping equipment – tent $45, sleeping bag $25, sleeping pad $25, full kit $85
A ‘Must Do Trip’ for experienced desert riders!
Pre-Trip Orientation
We meet the group for a pre-trip orientation at 5pm in Moab on the evening before the tour and typically last an hour. Introductions, trip details, rental equipment, questions and last minute trip purchases can all be taken care of at this time. You’ll receive 2 Dry Bags, water & dust proof bags for packing your personal equipment for the trip.
You must bring your mountain bike to the Pre-Trip Meeting for inspection by your Guides. If you will be a late arrival, or unable to attend the pre-trip meeting, or need help picking up your rental mountain bike from a local bike shop, then please let us know as soon as possible!
Pre-trip orientation meetings are held at our Magpie Cycling Headquarters at 711 N. 500 West, Moab, UT.
DAY 1:
Breakfast on your own. We’ll meet at 7:30am at the Magpie Cycling HQ to load all personal gear on the 4WD Gear Vehicle before we depart by van for Canyonlands. A safety orientation and MTB basic skills instruction will be given before riding. Then we’ll begin cycling to our first scenic LayOver camp at Gooseberry Canyon stopping for Lunch and Points-of-Interest along the way. (28mi MTB)
DAY 2:
Yippee, our first LayOver camp day! After serving a hearty breakfast, your Guides will lead an exploratory hike along the edge of the White Rim layer of sandstone bedrock that juts east and southward above the Colorado River corridor from camp. In late April we’ll likely find pristine Ephemeral Pools teaming with lifeforms leftover from prehistoric intertidal zones – super wicked cool. (0-9mi Hike)
DAY 3:
Awaken to a spectacular sunrise, fuel up with a power breakfast and you’re back in the saddle again. Riding through miles of visual splendor we’ll work our way from our Gooseberry camp to our next scenic LayOver camp at White Crack – the southernmost tip of the White Rim geologic layer. This coveted single site campground has been used for centuries by humans inhabiting this rugged region. (9mi MTB)
DAY 4:
Ahhhhh, another LayOver day in one of the most scenic places in the Park. Your Guides will lead a Day Hike from camp “under the ledge”, as the Outlaws of the Robber’s Roost used to say, or if you prefer, you can choose to chill in camp all day or explore by foot [self-guided] around the top of White Crack Point. After your return to camp, relax with a cold beverage and gaze at the intricate landscape acknowledging those fantastically hearty souls who once lived off these lands. (0-9mi Hike)
DAY 5:
Plenty of Fresh Moab Coffee and delicious food will fuel our ride over Murphy Hogback, Turk’s Pass, a hike into a slot canyon, and viewing Ancient Puebloan Indian ruins in route to our last camp at Potato Bottom on the Green River. (27mi MTB)
Day 6:
From our 3rd and final LayOver camp, we’ll use our MTBs to access the trailhead to the Fort Bottom Ruin – believed to be an ancient communications tower, and continue by foot down to river level where we’ll check out a historic cabin decorated with inscriptions from Cowhands, Rustlers, Homesteaders, and Lawmen alike. (3mi MTB + 4mi Hike)
Day 7:
We’ll ride 14mi and meet our shuttle van at mid-day. After we enjoy another lunch together, we’ll return to Moab by 4pm.
ITINERARY CHANGES MAY BE MADE DUE TO LOCAL CONDITIONS OR BY DISCRETION OF THE GROUP LEADERS.
Moab, UT is the beautiful gateway town to Canyonlands National park. We suggest making lodging or camping arrangements here as soon as you book your trip with us. You can fly right into Moab at Canyonlands Field Airport, which is just 20 minutes North of town. The next closest option is Grand Junction, CO, just under 100 miles/2 hours away. If you fly into Salt Lake City, you should anticipate a 4.5-hour drive to Moab. Plan on at least staying the night before your trip and the night your trip ends. There’s so much to see here!
IS THE WHITE RIM 7-DAY MTB & HIKE TOUR FOR YOU?
DO I NEED PREVIOUS MOUNTAIN BIKE EXPERIENCE? Yes, the terrain in the Maze is rough in spots and the area is very remote. This trip is suitable for fit intermediate to advanced riders. We give a complete orientation prior to the start of the ride. All of our Guides are experienced riders and great instructors. Daily, we discuss and demonstrate cycling techniques and safe riding skills to help improve your ability on the mountain bike.
Q: HOW MANY MILES PER DAY? Our Maze Classic 5-day Tour features 12-42 miles of riding on days 1, 3, 4 & 5. Day 2 is a hike with 8 to 20 miles of overland travel by foot. Extra riding and hiking is available from camp for those who wish to extend their day.
Q: WHAT KIND OF SHAPE DO I NEED TO BE IN? The more fit you are the more fun you’ll have! It all comes down to being in good general health, being accustomed to regular exercise outdoors and controlling your pace. If you ride at a comfortable pace for 4-6 hours per ride you will do fine on the trip. Remember, it is possible to ride a mountain bike for fun and it doesn’t have to be a race. Everyone rides at their own pace so there is plenty of time for photos and relaxation.
Q: WILL I NOTICE THE ALTITUDE? Moab lies 4,000 feet above sea level; most of our tour is between 4800’-6000’. If you live near sea level you may feel a slight difference; everyone adjusts at different rates. The quickest way to adapt to the altitude and dry air is to make an extra effort to drink plenty of water and eat salty foods when you arrive and throughout the day during your trip. It is dry here, so plan to drink lots of water, salt your food and snack frequently.
Food
Q: HOW IS THE FOOD? We prepare healthy & hearty delicious meals! Our outstanding menu reflects the nutritional needs that mountain biking and outdoor living requires. Our meals are prepared using Local Organic Ingredients; lean meats, fresh fruits & veggies, and whole grains as well as enough sweet treats to satisfy!
We also bring snack bars & electrolyte replacement mix.
Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Vegetarian or other dietary requirements & requests can be accommodated with advance notice.
Q: WHAT ABOUT BEVERAGES? We provide Orange Juice, Fresh Moab Coffee, Black & Herbal Teas, Vitalyte (an electrolyte replacement mix) and plenty of yummy water. If you want to bring beer, soft drinks or extra juice, we request you bring aluminum cans or plastic containers only! We typically have room for three beverages per person, per day, in our cooler. Please transfer wines & spirits from glass bottles to a plastic or metal bottle with a tight fitting screw cap lid.
Money
Q: WHAT ABOUT TIPPING? While not expected, it’s certainly appreciated for a job well done. 10% – 20% is customary in the service industry.
Travel Companions
Q: WHO COMES ON MAGPIE CYCLING’S TRIPS? Typically we have a spirited mixture of singles & couples as well as friends & family traveling together. Many have joined us on numerous adventures in the past. The ability range within groups can span from novice to expert mountain bikers. All seem to share the common bond of an appreciation for the outdoors & an active lifestyle. We’ll gladly supply references and the make-up of any trip that you are interested in joining.
Q: ARE CHARTER TRIPS AVAILABLE? Yes, any of our trips can be chartered by your Private Party! You bring the group and we’ll take care of the details! Custom itineraries are available: dates, amenities, activities, etc are negotiable. To schedule a Charter Trip call (800) 546-4245.
Guide(s)
Q: WHO ARE THE GUIDES? All trips are lead by our Professional MTB Guide/Instructor Staff; Mike Adler, Mike Rundle, Sasha Pasler, Andy Keck, Eric Boxrud and of course, the owners, Mike Holme & Maggie Wilson. Our Staff have a wealth of knowledge about the local area and a comfortable style bringing people together like a group of friends having fun on an amazing adventure vacation.
Transportation
Q: CAN I BRING MY OWN BIKE AND HOW DO I SHIP IT? Yes, you must make sure your bike is in good repair and has been recently serviced by a qualified bike shop. It’s vital to check all systems; brakes, shifters, drive train, cables, shocks, tires and wheels. Ship your bike to Poison Spider Bicycles, 497 N. Main St, Moab UT 84532, via FedEx. It’ll be ready when you arrive (or assemble yourself… see the Equipment List for details).
Q: WHERE DO WE LEAVE OUR CAR? At the Pre-Trip Meeting we’ll give you directions to the parkiing lot where we’ll meet the following morning to launch our trip. This is where you’ll leave your car during the trip.
Q: HOW LONG ARE THE VAN SHUTTLE RIDES? To access the beginning of our trip there is a very scenic 3 hour van shuttle ride. We’ll depart Moab early in the morning and stop at least twice in
PACKING INFORMATION
At the Pre-Trip Meeting you’ll receive 2 Dry Bags, water & dust proof bags. The large bag is for your clothes, sleeping bag & sleeping pad; it’s carried on top of the gear vehicle and is not easily accessible during the day. The small bag is for extra clothing & items you may need during the day and don’t want to carry on your bike. The small bag is carried on the gear vehicle and easily accessible when you’re near the gear vehicle. Finally, your Hydration Pack is for items you need with you while riding; water, snacks, sunscreen, camera, rain jacket, etc.
PLEASE NOTE: We have limited space on the gear vehicle; follow the equipment list carefully! Bring only what you’ll need for your trip; excess clothing and gear can be left in your hotel or car.
SEASONAL TEMPERATURES
April, May, Sept & early Oct trips usually have cool nights (35-55F), warm sunny days (65-95F) and the possibility of some wind & thunderstorms. In March, early April & late Oct expect colder nights (30-45F), clear to partly cloudy days (60-80F) and the possibility of some wind & thunderstorms. We suggest dressing in layers, with good Gore-Tex rain gear as the top layer.
EQUIPMENT LIST: MULTI-DAY DESERT TOURS
This equipment list was compiled from personal guiding experience and updated with guest feedback from mountain bike trips beginning in 1985. It’s not meant to overwhelm, but to educate & prepare you for the varied conditions we’ve experienced in the field. By taking time to thoroughly go over this list, you’ll begin to insure the quality of your trip. Items in Italics are available for rent, with advanced reservations.
REQUIRED EQUIPMENT
Bike Helmet (rental bikes come with helmets) – Sunhat, Baseball Cap or Visor – Eye Protection (if prescription, bring a spare pair) – Hydration Pack (minimum 100 oz reservoir and capacity for food etc) – Cycling Gloves – Closed Toed Shoes – Sunscreen and Lip Screen (light colored clothing also works)
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Sunglasses – Bandanna – Base Layers (synthetic or wool, avoid cotton!) – Down Jacket – Ski Hat (Wool or Fleece) – Cycling Shorts – Shorts – Long Pants – Gore-Tex Rain Suit – Sandals – Earplugs (for sleeping) – Headlamp or Flashlight (with new batteries, spare bulb and extra batteries) – Personal First Aid Kit (Include anti-Inflammatory, anti-acid, Band-Aids, topical antibiotic, Aloe Vera gel, athletic tape or Second Skin, cold/sinus meds, eye drops, personal & prescription medications)
PERSONAL ITEMS
Toilet Kit (normal toiletries in small travel sizes) – Wash Cloths (1 per day for your daily “desert shower”) – Insect Repellent (Citronella works well on gnats)
OPTIONAL ITEMS
Camera – Book – Personal Journal or Pencil & Paper – Binoculars – Small Musical Instrument – Beverages (CANS ONLY PLEASE, 4 cans per person per day, transfer wines and liquors from glass to a plastic bottle with secure screw-top lid)
CAMPING GEAR – You can rent all items in Italics from Magpie Cycling with advanced reservations – Tent (with rainfly, stakes, poles, stuff sack, 50 ft. 1/8″ Nylon Cord to secure tent in places where soil is thin) – Sleeping Bag with stuff sack – compact bag with synthetic fill, rated 30-40F – Sleeping Pad (Thermarest self-inflating pad)
MOUNTAIN BIKE RENTALS – Advance reservations are necessary! Many different brands and styles of Full Suspension Mountain Bikes are available for rent from Moab’s local bike shops. We’re happy to help make a reservation for you from any of the local bike shops. We’ll need to know your height and inseam to insure that we reserve a bike in your correct size.
IF YOU RENT A BIKE – Consider bringing the following items from your personal bike; your own comfortable mountain bike seat (without the seat post), your own MTB pedals and shoes.
IF YOU BRING YOUR OWN BIKE – Full Suspension is Highly Recommended! Your bike must be in excellent repair! Service all systems: suspension components, dropper seatpost, brakes, drive train, and wheels. Magpie Cycling assumes no responsibility for the condition of your personal bike and reserves the right to deny usage of bikes considered unsafe by your Guide! Our tools are for minor adjustments and repairs while on the trip.
SHIPPING YOUR BIKE – send it FedEx or UPS to Magpie Cycling, 711 North 500 West, Moab, UT 84532. Clearly mark exterior of box; “Please Assemble” or “Please Hold – assembly by owner only”. Note; we charge a fee to assemble and/or re-box and ship your bike back to you.
WHAT TO CARRY WHILE RIDING MY BIKE – All you need to carry is your Hydration Pack with at least a 2 liter / 70 oz. reservoir, MTB multi-tool, flat repair kit, food, and a rain jacket. The 4WD Gear Vehicle travels behind the group carrying the camp food, first aid, cold beverages as well as the group and personal gear to the evening’s campsite.
