MOAB BIKE TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Raptor Route: Four Raptors, One Moab Day — From Kestrel Run to Whole Enchilada Access
A focused guide to riding Moab’s Raptor Route—four linked trails from Eagle Eye to Kestrel Run—with practical pickup, parking, and extension options for riders seeking technical exposure and big views.
Raptor Route: Four Raptors, One Moab Day — From Kestrel Run to Whole Enchilada Access.
Adventure brief
Raptor Route: Four Raptors, One Moab Day — From Kestrel Run to Whole Enchilada Access
The Raptor Route stitches four distinct singletrack experiences into a compact, high-value ride in the Moab desert: Eagle Eye, Hawk's Glide, Falcon Flow and the newly opened Kestrel Run. Together they deliver a mix of high-elevation vantage points, technical cliff-exposure sections and flowing lower trails, with easy access to the broader Whole Enchilada/UPS network for riders who want to lengthen the day.
Moab, Utah, stands as a legendary hub for thrill-seeking mountain bikers, and the Raptor Route, accessible via the Kestrel Run Trailhead Parking Lot, exemplifies its rugged appeal. Spanning four dynamic trails—Eagle Eye, Hawk's Glide, Falcon Flow, and Kestrel Run—this route offers a blend of technical challenges and sweeping vistas that appeal to intermediate and advanced riders alike. The trails wind through iconic Moab terrain, characterized by striking red rock formations, sandstone arches, and desert flora, making every pedal stroke a visual feast. Riders will appreciate the variety: from fast-flowing descents to technical climbs where traction and bike handling skills are put to the test. The route also grants access to the renowned Whole Enchilada trail system, considered one of the best multi-ride destinations in the country. This makes Raptor Route perfect for those wanting a comprehensive Moab experience, combining challenging terrain with scenic beauty. Moab itself has a rich history rooted in mining and pioneering spirit, now channeled into outdoor recreation that attracts adventurers worldwide. The area’s dry desert climate means winter riding is feasible, while summer demands early starts to avoid the heat. The business provides shuttle services, making logistical planning straightforward. Known for its friendly staff and expert route knowledge, they help riders tackle the trail system efficiently and safely. Whether you're a seasoned mountain biker or an eager intermediate looking to push your skills, Raptor Route stands out as a must-visit spot in Moab, offering a perfect mix of adventure, scenery, and technicality that keeps visitors returning year after year.
Route Schematic
Route Schematic & Key Stops
Typical flow and connector options, with pickup and drop-off logistics and UPS extension opportunities.
Kestrel Run Parking Lot (Meeting / Pickup)
Meet at the Kestrel Run Parking Lot for shuttle pickup; this parking location is recommended to avoid a long ride back to town and is the designated meeting point for loading bikes.
Kestrel Run Trail
Begin the route on the two-mile Kestrel Run trail, the newest link in the Raptor Route system, which completes the network and transitions riders toward Falcon Flow.
Falcon Flow Lower Section
Ride the 5.7-mile Falcon Flow lower section — a true intermediate stretch by Moab standards that carries riders toward the higher ridge lines.
Eagle Eye & Hawk’s Glide (High Sections)
Connect to Eagle Eye (2.3 miles, LPS trailhead access) and the more advanced Hawk’s Glide (2 miles) for high-elevation viewpoints and technical, cliff-exposed trail.
UPS Access / Whole Enchilada Extension
From the drop-off there are short pedal options to UPS: Lower UPS is 0.25 miles to Porcupine Rim Campground; the full UPS approach requires 1.2 miles to Kokopelli Trail and another 1.7 miles to the UPS trailhead, adding roughly 3 miles and 600 feet of climbing.
This trail system is rated intermediate with advanced options; the operator shuttles to the highest trailhead that weather conditions permit each day—expect the operator to adjust pickup/drop-off locations for safety and trail access.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Four Trails, One Network
Raptor Route comprises Eagle Eye, Hawk's Glide, Falcon Flow and Kestrel Run, each offering a distinct ride: Eagle Eye sits at the high point, Hawk’s Glide delivers the most advanced, cliff-exposed terrain, Falcon Flow provides intermediate lower-singletrack flow, and Kestrel Run completes the system.
Advanced Exposure and Flowing Lower Sections
Expect technical cliff-exposure and advanced features on Hawk’s Glide and intermediate, rideable flow through Falcon Flow—making the route suitable for riders who can handle a mix of sustained exposure and fast, flowy trail.
Easy Access to UPS / Whole Enchilada
From the drop-off you can pedal a short distance to access UPS and the Whole Enchilada system: a quarter-mile pedal reaches Lower UPS, while the full UPS approach adds roughly 3 miles and 600 feet of climbing to reach the UPS trailhead.
What the day feels like
What Riding It Feels Like
The route threads high, exposed benchlines and cliff-hugging technical ridges down into wide, rolling lower singletrack. Riders move from the 2.3-mile highpoint of Eagle Eye through Hawk’s Glide’s advanced cliffs and into the 5.7-mile Falcon Flow before completing the two-mile Kestrel Run—an experience that rewards competent climbers and confident descenders and offers a clear push to extend into UPS and the Whole Enchilada if you want more distance.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Carry abundant water (minimum 100 oz. per rider recommended), ample food and snacks, sun protection and sunglasses, extra warm layers and a headlamp. Practice Leave No Trace.
Keep your bike in top condition; bring extra tubes, pump, patch kits, tire levers, a spare cable, spare derailleur hanger, master link, multi-tool with chain breaker, lube and a shock pump.
Pack a first-aid kit, fire starter and a charged cell phone. Be prepared for rapid temperature changes—carry extra layers and a waterproof/wind layer.
The desert is very hot and extremely dry—bring far more water than you think you need and calorie-dense snacks to maintain energy over 12 miles and 2–4 hours of riding.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Where is the meeting location for the shuttle?
Meet at the Kestrel Run Parking Lot for the shuttle pickup.
Is there an entry fee to access the parking area?
A $2 fee applies to enter the Sand Flats Recreation Area; that fee is waived if you are camping or already have a day pass.
How early should I arrive for shuttle loading?
Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time for bike loading.
Can I extend the ride into the Whole Enchilada/UPS system?
Yes. A 0.25-mile pedal from the drop-off reaches Lower UPS; the full UPS approach requires about 3 additional miles of riding and roughly 600 feet of climbing to reach the UPS trailhead.
Can I find the Kestrel Run Parking Lot on common mapping apps?
No — you cannot find this parking area on Trailforks, Google, or Apple Maps; directions are available under 'Meeting Locations' on the operator website.
Will the shuttle always go to the highest trailhead?
The operator shuttles to the highest trailhead that weather conditions permit each day.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-24T22:22:14.120Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.