MOAB BIKE TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Rim-to-River Thrill: Riding the Lower Whole Enchilada from LPS to Porcupine Rim
A focused guide to the Lower Porcupine Singletrack and Porcupine Rim Trail in Moab—what to expect on the route, the technical choices you’ll face, and the gear and logistics to ride it safely.
Rim-to-River Thrill: Riding the Lower Whole Enchilada from LPS to Porcupine Rim.
Adventure brief
Rim-to-River Thrill: Riding the Lower Whole Enchilada from LPS to Porcupine Rim
The Lower Whole Enchilada stitches Moab’s Lower Porcupine Singletrack (LPS) into the Porcupine Rim Trail for a compact, adrenaline-heavy descent that skirts sandstone ledges, rock features and exposed rim runs before dropping toward the Colorado River. This guide breaks down the route, the technical forks and the finish at the river so riders can plan a focused, safe outing.
Moab, Utah, is a mecca for mountain biking, famed for its rugged red rock landscapes and challenging trails. The Whole Enchilada trail system is considered a bucket-list destination for riders craving adrenaline and spectacular scenery. Rim Cyclery offers convenient pick-up services from their shop, situated in the heart of Moab, making it easy for adventurers to jump straight into the action. The Lower Porcupine Singletrack and Porcupine Rim Trail provide a dynamic riding experience, blending technical features with scenic vistas overlooking the Colorado River. The trail’s distinctive geological formations include towering escarpments, sandstone fins, and sweeping canyon views. Riders will find a variety of terrains: tight switchbacks, fast flow sections, and segment drops designed to test skills while delivering adrenaline-fueled fun. An iconic highlight of the trail is the stunning overlook at the end, where you can pause and soak in the scale of the surrounding desert landscape. Thanks to its proximity to Moab's bustling downtown, Rim Cyclery makes an excellent base for riders eager to tackle the trail system. Beyond the trail itself, Moab boasts a rich history rooted in pioneer tales and Native American heritage, adding cultural depth to the outdoor adventure. Rim Cyclery’s professional staff provide bike rentals, guided tours, and knowledgeable trail advice, fostering a welcoming environment for all skill levels—from seasoned enthusiasts to enthusiastic newcomers. The trail’s varied terrains and breathtaking scenery make it one of the standout rides in the area, and the shop’s strategic position streamlines the logistics, allowing you to focus on the ride. After conquering the Lower Porcupine Singletrack, visitors often indulge in the vibrant local scene, known for its lively eateries and outdoor markets. Whether you're in town for a weekend or a multi-day trip, this ride offers a perfect blend of challenge, scenery, and cultural richness that keeps Moab a top-tier mountain biking destination.
Route Schematic
Route schematic: key stops and flow
A sequence of technical singletrack, a forked technical section, cliff rim riding, a rock garden and a river‑side finish.
Lower Porcupine Singletrack (LPS) start
Singletrack that traverses the rim, moving between flowy sections and technical rock features as it heads toward the fork.
The Notch / The Snotch fork
A decision point: The Notch is short, steep and highly technical; The Snotch begins with an off‑camber rocky switchback and a technical slab feature—both rejoin the rim route.
Porcupine Rim overlook
A classic stop for food, photos and views of Castle Valley before committing to the Porcupine Rim descent.
Porcupine Rim rock garden
A fast, bone‑chattering stretch of sandstone shelves, boulders and optional drops that tests line choice and bike setup.
Porcupine Rim Trailhead / River Parking Lot
The trail concludes at the Porcupine Rim Trailhead River Parking Lot next to Grandstaff Campground on the Colorado River HWY 128.
This is an advanced trail with technical features; the shuttle operator may adjust the highest trailhead served depending on weather and conditions—riders should be prepared for trail changes and choose lines they can safely ride.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Lower Porcupine Singletrack into Porcupine Rim
The LPS connects directly into the Porcupine Rim Trail to form the lower half of the Whole Enchilada system, delivering a mix of singletrack rims, flow sections and a final exposed run that looks down toward the Colorado River and Grandstaff area.
Notch vs. Snotch — choose your line
Shortly after the start riders encounter a fork: The Notch is a steep, highly technical option best left to the most experienced; The Snotch opens with an off‑camber rocky switchback and a technical slab feature. Both feeds return you to rim riding and flowy corners.
Porcupine Rim overlook and river finish
Mid-ride, the Porcupine Rim overlook provides a natural pause for snacks and photos of Castle Valley; the descent continues through a bone‑chattering rock garden before finishing at the Porcupine Rim Trailhead River Parking Lot beside Grandstaff Campground on Hwy 128.
What the day feels like
What the ride feels like
Expect a concentrated Moab experience: initial singletrack that alternates technical moves and flow, a critical fork where riders must pick between extremely technical or technical slab lines, then a fast, rock‑strewn middle section and an exposed final singletrack that rewards attention with expansive Colorado River and Castle Valley views.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits — and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The Lower section covers roughly 13.5 miles and typically takes about 2–4 hours to complete.
Meet at Rim Cyclery for the in‑town pickup and shuttle logistics.
Carry ample water (minimum recommended 100 oz. per rider), food, spare tubes, pump/CO2, multi‑tool, spare derailleur hanger, chain master link, patch kits, shock pump, extra layers, headlamp, sunscreen, sunglasses, first aid kit and a charged cell phone.
Moab’s terrain rattles components; keep your bike in excellent working order and bring parts and tools to handle common mechanicals. Practice Leave No Trace principles.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Where is the meetup for the shuttle?
The in‑town pickup meeting location is Rim Cyclery.
How long is the Lower Enchilada (Lower LPS + Porcupine Rim)?
The lower section is approximately 13.5 miles and generally takes about 2 to 4 hours to ride.
How technical is the route?
This trail is rated advanced with technical sections including The Notch, The Snotch, slab features, rock gardens and optional drops.
Can I ride an e‑bike on this trip?
No—e‑bikes are not allowed on this route.
What are the essential items I should carry?
Bring ample water (minimum of 100 oz. per rider recommended), food, spare tubes and tools, pump, patch kits, spare cable and derailleur hanger, multi‑tool with chain breaker, extra layers, headlamp, sunscreen, first aid kit and a phone.
Can the shuttle change my drop‑off depending on conditions?
Yes—the shuttle will serve the highest trailhead that weather and conditions permit on the day of your ride.
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: 2026-08-17T21:45:38.223Z
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.