A (San Rafael) Swell Night Out

Dogs Off-leash

E-Bikes Allowed

Features Commonly Bikepacked

Superb tour of the southern San Rafael Swell, mostly on dirt roads, going through some very remote territory and unbelievable geology. The loop can be done in a single long day, or it makes a great overnight bikepacking trip. It's challenging no matter how you choose to tackle it. There is a bunch of climbing, and very little easy or flat terrain. Water is hard to obtain, the sun is intense, and weather can be extreme. For those with the experience and the endurance for this type of wild desert riding, the route is a must-do.

You can access water from Muddy Creek in two spots with a short out-and-back hike at around mile 23 and 40. This source is only recommended if you are experienced with filtering silty water. It could also be mineralized and have some agricultural runoff. It would be a good idea to check the USGS water data to see the flow rate before your trip, but carrying all your water is generally the safest choice.

Start at the Temple Mountain Townsite Campground and head southwest on the Behind the Reef Road, which has mind-blowing views among sweeping sandstone cliffs and towers. I recommend doing this section first, clockwise, as it is the crux of the route. The first 6 miles are on great 2WD road, then it gets much more rugged for the remaining 14 miles. Plan on lots of steep, loose, rocky terrain, with plenty of roller coasters. No flat terrain here. You'll pass the popular Little Wild Horse and Bell canyon loop, where you could go for a side hike. The trail gets worse the closer you get to the end. Mentally prepare.

After about 20 miles you'll reach road 1012. Either head left for a 5 mile out and back to an airstrip and Muddy Creek access or head right and climb 1500' over the next 8 miles on good 2WD road to the junction with 1019. Head left on 1019 and enjoy the best part of the day, a 5 mile 2000-ft descent with fantastic views.

The next 20 or so miles are fairly straightforward riding in a wash with great scenery, though not as good as Behind the Reef, with overall elevation gain until a steep climb to exit the canyon. After that, continue to follow 1019 to where it reconnects with 1012, then continue with several more climbs and descents through open desert.

Note that you do have a good option for a bailout around mile 62 of the loop. You can take Temple Mountain Rd on a long descent that leads back to the car in several miles. The full loop that's mapped here continues on a prolonged descent into North Temple Wash, then makes a burly climb over the shoulder of Temple Mountain to get back.

The extra push is worth it for the full experience of this loop. Up on the plateau beside Temple Mtn you can find historic relics of uranium mining in the area, and the elevated views over the Reef are another special treat. You have to really earn it by riding steep and loose jeep roads, but then you'll get a big grin of a descent coming off the plateau and coasting the rest of the way to your car.

Enjoy!