Stage 1 of the Desert RATS Kokopelli begins just west of Fruita, Colorado in a small town named Loma. Monday morning racers are shuttled to the trailhead from Moab, a 90-minute drive without traffic. For spectators and crew, the start is just moments off of Interstate-70, just beyond a commercial Port of Entry when heading east from Utah.

Though each stage undoubtedly showcases its own unique beauty, Gemini considers this "one of the most beautiful sections of the entire course". Vast red-rock canyons and stunning views welcome racers as they traverse through the McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area.

First known as the Colorado Canyons NCA, the site was renamed in October of 2000 in honor of late State Representative Scott McInnis. While racers traverse the northern boundary of the canyons, the area is home to "the second-largest concentration of natural arches in North America," according to the Bureau of Land Management. Endless petroglyphs and pictographs, as well as 25 miles of the Colorado River can also be found within the canyons.

For Stage 1, aid stations are available at miles 6.0 and 13.7 of the 19.8 mile leg. There is no other water or facilities along the trail.

Source: https://geminiadventures.com/desert-rats/