If you’re looking for a fun and challenging place to ride your trials bike, you might want to check out Big Rocks Recreation Area in Loa, Utah. This area is managed by the Bureau of Land Management and features some huge sandstone boulders that offer a variety of obstacles and terrain for riders of all skill levels. You can also enjoy some camping, hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography in this scenic and remote area.
Getting There
Big Rocks Recreation Area is located three miles south of Loa, which is a small town about 200 miles southeast of Salt Lake City and 21 miles from Capitol Reef National Park. In Loa you’ll find the basic amenities such as gas stations, restaurants, and lodging.
From Loa take Highway 24 west for about two miles until you reach the junction with Big Rocks Road. Turn right and follow the unpaved road for another 2.5 miles until you reach the recreation area. There is a large sign and a map at the entrance, as well as some picnic tables and restrooms.
The Area
Big Rocks Recreation Area covers about 640 acres of land, with hundreds of sandstone boulders scattered across the landscape. The boulders range in size from small rocks to giant formations that are over 50 feet high. The boulders have different shapes, colors, and textures, creating a unique and diverse environment for riding.
The area is open to all types of trials bikes, as well as hiking and camping. There are no designated trails or campsites, so you can explore and ride wherever you want. However, you have to respect the natural resources and avoid damaging the vegetation and wildlife. You also have to pack out all your trash and leave no trace.
The area is very remote and isolated, so you have to be prepared for any emergencies or hazards, there’s no water so bring your own with you. Cell phone service is sketchy at best but again you’re only three miles from town. Keep an eye out for weather conditions, and wildlife.
The Riding
There’s great variety for riders of all levels with boulders that are smooth and round, while others are rough and angular. Some of the boulders are flat and stable, while others are tilted and wobbly. Some close together, while others are far apart.
Riders use different skills and techniques to ride on the boulders, such as balancing, hopping, turning, climbing, dropping, and jumping. It’s a great place to test your abilities and skill on the variety of boulders.
Not only does this area great for challenging your skill, but you’ll also enjoy its scenery and the solitude. The boulders are surrounded by sagebrush, juniper trees, and wildflowers, creating a beautiful contrast with the red rocks. Other than from the sound of bike engines and tires, the area is quiet and peaceful.
Utah’s Hidden Trial Bike Gem
Trial bike enthusiasts will have a blast riding their bikes in Big Rocks Recreation Area and will definitely want to return and bring their friends who love trials biking or off-road riding. It’s one of the great hidden treasures in Utah’s Capitol Reef Country.
If you want to learn more about Big Rocks Recreation Area or other BLM areas in Utah, you can visit these websites:
- Big Rocks Special Recreation Management Area – Recreation.gov
- Big Rocks Special Recreation Management Area | Bureau of Land Management
- Big Rocks Special Recreation Management Area | Outdoorsy
Keep Capitol Reef Country Forever Mighty
What is Forever Mighty? It’s practicing responsible travel while visiting Utah and Capitol Reef Country by following the principles of Tread Lightly and Leave No Trace.
Plan ahead and prepare, travel and camp on durable surfaces, dispose of waste properly, leave what you find, minimize campfire impacts, respect wildlife, be considerate of others, support local business and honor community, history and heritage. Help us keep Utah and Capitol Reef Country’s outdoor recreation areas beautiful, healthy, and accessible.