Charge Through Klondike: An E-Mountain Bike Ride with Dinosaur Tracks and Slickrock Views
A half-day e-bike run across slickrock ledges and ancient sandstone—bring technical skills and a thirst for wide desert views
You climb onto an e-bike at the edge of a red-rock table and the desert begins to make itself known: heat shimmering over sandstone, piñon needles whispering, and a horizon stitched with the fins and arches you drove past on the way in. With a quiet mechanical whirr the motor finds the cadence you need—just enough assistance to keep momentum across slickrock rollers and to aid the steep push toward the boundary of Arches National Park. Pedals and power collide in a way that makes long approaches feel short, but you still earn every descent and corner.
Trail Wisdom
Pre-ride Skills Check
Practice braking and cornering on loose rock at low speed; many trail sections reward conservative lines over speed.
Hydration Minimum
Carry at least 2 liters of water and a hydration bladder for easy access—desert heat depletes reserves fast.
Tire Pressure
Run slightly lower tire pressure for traction on slickrock, but avoid pinch-flat territory—bring a pump.
Respect Sensitive Rock
Stay on established lines and avoid walking on fragile cryptobiotic soils near the trail.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Look for small pockets of dinosaur tracks in lower-traffic benches
- •Short technical spur trails that wind into mini-amphitheaters with great sunset light
Wildlife
Desert cottontail, Red-tailed hawk
Conservation Note
Riders should stay on established trails to protect cryptobiotic soils and pack out all trash; many local operators contribute to trail maintenance and BLM stewardship programs.
The region preserves Jurassic sandstone formations and has been used by Indigenous peoples for millennia; modern trail-building accelerated with Moab’s recreation boom in the late 20th century.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: mild temperatures, wildflower displays
Challenges: busy trails, variable spring storms
Spring offers ideal temperatures and vivid desert bloom, but expect higher visitor numbers and occasional wind or rain.
summer
Best for: early-morning rides, long daylight
Challenges: extreme heat, limited water sources
Summer means hot, dry days—ride early or late and carry extra water and sun protection.
fall
Best for: stable weather, cool evenings
Challenges: busy weekends, colder nights
Fall is prime: comfortable temps and clear skies make for excellent riding and long exposure-style photography.
winter
Best for: quiet trails, crisp light
Challenges: cold snaps, possible snowy/icy patches
Winters are quieter and can be beautiful, but be prepared for cold, and icy slickrock after storms.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
E-MTB or E-hybrid (provided by operator in most cases)Essential
Motorized assist helps cover more ground and makes sustained climbs manageable.
Helmet (full-face optional)Essential
Protects you on technical descents and when rolling over slickrock ledges.
Hydration bladder (2L+) and electrolyte mixEssential
Easy access to fluids keeps you hydrated in the dry desert air.
Multi-tool, spare tube, mini-pump or CO2Essential
Essential for quick roadside repairs to stay in the saddle during the tour.
Common Questions
Do I need prior mountain biking experience?
Yes—the tour recommends confident off-road riding skills; you'll encounter slickrock, narrow ledges, and technical descents that require good bike control.
Is the e-bike motor strong enough for steep climbs?
Yes, the motor provides assist to help on sustained climbs and to maintain momentum, but it doesn’t remove the need for pedaling or fitness.
What is included in the tour price?
Most guided tours include bike rental, helmet, guide services, and basic trail support; check the operator listing for exact inclusions and exclusions.
Are there dinosaur tracks on the route?
Yes—there are documented dinosaur track sites in the sandstone near Klondike Bluffs; guides will point out accessible examples along the route when conditions allow.
Do I need a permit to ride here?
The trails are primarily on BLM land and typically do not require a permit, but entering nearby Arches National Park requires the park entrance fee—confirm route details with your operator.
What happens in bad weather?
Operators will reschedule or offer alternatives if conditions make the ride unsafe; light rain can make slickrock treacherous, so cancellations are common in storms.
What to Pack
Hydration bladder (2L+), multi-tool & spare tube, layered sun-protective clothing, sunscreen and sunglasses
Did You Know
The sandstone around Moab, including formations at Klondike Bluffs, was formed during the Jurassic period roughly 180 million years ago and preserves both ancient dune structures and occasional fossil tracks.
Quick Travel Tips
Book morning slots to avoid heat; bring cash for local tips; confirm bike sizing when booking; check park entry fees if visiting Arches
Local Flavor
After the ride, head back into Moab for wood-fired pizza or a hearty burger—Moab Brewery is a local favorite for post-ride beers, while Desert Bistro serves seasonal plates if you want a sit-down meal. Either spot offers a chance to trade line choices and photographers’ frame counts with fellow riders.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Canyonlands Regional Airport (CNY) in Moab; Driving from Moab town center to many Klondike Bluff meeting points is 10–25 minutes; Cell service: intermittent on some trail sections; Permits/fees: No BLM permit required for most routes—Arches National Park has its own entrance fee.
Sustainability Note
This area contains fragile cryptobiotic soils and sensitive sandstone features—stick to established trails, pack out waste, and support operators who contribute to local trail stewardship.
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