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Trip Overview Gay Mountain Biking in the Gay Maze |
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An illustrated itinerary of one of our many travel adventures for gay men, lesbians, and friends. This information supplements our
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Gay Mountain Biking at its best
We begin our week of mountain biking in the gay friendly town of Moab, Utah, less than an hour's drive from Canyonlands National Park. We'll spend 5 days (4 nights) riding the Maze Trail, camping out along the way, with 1 night in Moab at the start of the trip and 1 night back in Moab at the end of the trail ride. Moab is a pleasant town. While it's not a gay mecca, there is a little nightlife, for those who wish. The schedule below describes a typical week. Our actual riding times, restaurants, and activities may change based on trail conditions, weather, or simply what cyclists in our group want to do. There are one or two 19-seat prop plane flights a day to Moab from Denver and Las Vegas on Great Lakes Airlines, but the closest airport with major carriers is Grand Junction, Colorado, a couple of hours' drive away from Moab. There are far more flights to Salt Lake City and Las Vegas, but these require a longer drive upon arrival. There is currently no scheduled bus service to Moab.
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1: Welcome to Moab
Our trip officially begins at 7:00 pm, but early arrivals can walk the main street of historic Moab. A classic western boom-and-bust town, Moab maintains a funky balance between the old-timers who came to mine silver from the hills, and newer arrivals who seek excitement biking and hiking across the wild landscape. Who will be in our group? Typically, we draw a friendly and energetic group of cyclists ranging in age from late twenties to early sixties. And don't be surprised if our group includes international bikers. The popularity of the Maze Trail attracts gay mountain bikers from around the world. Visitors from countries as far away as Belgium, Australia and Vietnam have joined us in Utah and on some dates.
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2: Welcome to the Maze!
The ride begins at the Hans Flat Ranger Station after a brief meeting with a Park Ranger. Our first ride takes us along the top of the Orange Cliffs, down the Flint Trail and out to the Maze Overlook, one of the most stunning views in Canyonlands National Park and our campsite for the next 2 nights. Miles today total 28. Once we reach camp and your tent is set up your work is done! Your guides will take care of all the details from setting up lawn chairs with hors d'oeuvres and the drink cooler nearby, to cooking up a healthy delicious meal. Washbasins are available for clean up each evening during the trip and a solar shower is usually available for 1 or 2 evenings. Camp time is your time to relax, whether it's lounging around with our library of books or setting out for a hike to explore your surroundings.
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3: Into the Heart of the Maze.
We will spend the day hiking into the canyons below our campsite. The trail from camp drops 600 feet into the heart of the Maze. Our hike leads us to a fascinating collection of rock art, left by American Indians at least 2000 years ago, called the Harvest Scene. There is a riding option for anyone who doesn't wish to hike. 
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4: Dirty Devil River.
After a hot and hearty breakfast, we’ll ride towards our next camp at Teapot Rock, about 24 miles away. Near Teapot Rock we will find petrified logs and possibly arrowheads. There are wonderful views of Hatch Canyon, which leads to the Dirty Devil River. After dinner you may take a short hike under the moonlight or gaze to the sky to view the countless stars. Because this area is so remote, on clear nights it's easy to spot shootings stars, planets, satellites and the Milky Way.
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5: The Land of Standing Rocks.
Day 4 is an out and back exploration to the Land of Standing Rocks, with the option of exploring the Doll's House if conditions permit. This is the most technical riding of the tour. The terrain includes short but technical climbs and descents. However, since this is an "out and back" ride you may ride "out and back" as far as you wish. You may also hike or rest today. The riding totals 12-35 miles with hiking options. We'll camp at the same location as the night before, Teapot Rock
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6: Out of the Maze and back to our hotel/
Our final day takes us on a 35 mile ride out of the Maze to Hite, at the north tip of Lake Powell. The route is a rolling and winding jeep road with new vistas around every bend. Return to our hotel, with a lovely farewell dinner.
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7: Farewell.
Bid farewell to new friends and start planning for your next Alyson Adventure!
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