FATMAP by Strava

McCoy Flats Beginner Loop

A rare, true beginner singletrack ride.

Mountain Biking Easy

Distance
5.6 km
Ascent
80 m
Descent
80 m
Duration
0-1 hrs
Low Point
1.6 km
High Point
1.6 km
Gradient
McCoy Flats Beginner Loop Map

It’s surprisingly rare to find true beginner singletrack trails in the Mountain West, so when you do happen across one, it’s worth noting. The McCoy Flats Trail System, located outside of Vernal, Utah, is home to some superb beginner flow, with a number of options to gradually advance your skills as you become more confident. This is thanks to over 35 miles of interconnected singletrack, with which you can create routes of varying lengths and technical difficulties.

Description

The terrain in this region is classic desert badlands, filled with flat-top mesas, soaring ridgelines, and lowlands in between. There isn’t any tree cover to speak of in the area, so expect to ride in direct sunlight the entire time. During the spring, the hillsides are covered in green grasses and flowers, but in mid-summer, the earth will be scorched dry.

Consequently, the best time of year to ride here is during either the spring or the fall. With the McCoy Flats trailhead located at 5,300 feet above sea level, the area is a bit too high for reliable winter riding. However, when you hit the temperature window just right, the weather is absolutely perfect!

The route mapped here follows the absolute easiest trails in the network: And Cookies and Combo. This easy loop provides superb swoop and flow, and some delightful views from the low ridges.

Are you in over your head on this short ride? Just take one of the bail out options, pop out onto the road, and pedal back to the trailhead—no sweat! This is probably the lowest-commitment mountain bike ride in existence, which isn’t a bad thing.

Difficulty

Easy

Mostly smooth and non-technical singletrack with unavoidable obstacles 2in/5cm tall or less. Avoidable obstacles may be present. Ideal for beginner riders.

Low Exposure

1 out of 4

The path is on completely flat land and potential injury is limited to falling over.

Remoteness

1 out of 4

Close to help in case of emergency.

Best time to visit

between March and November

Features

  • Flow
  • Picturesque
  • Singletrack

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area