New trail connection in Moab will keep bikers and recreationalists off busy highway

Construction is underway on the first project in the Utah Trail Network, a statewide effort to connect communities with a system of paved trails similar to how highways connect cities.

The project is the first of more than 20 Utah Trail Network projects currently in development across the state, focused on creating new regional trails, connecting existing trails, and closing challenging gaps.

The Utah Trail Network Master Plan designates 2,600 miles of new paved trails and 500 miles of existing trails as part of a visionary system to connect Utahns of all ages and abilities to their destinations and communities.

The 0.7-mile trail connection along State Route 128 closes a long-standing gap in the Colorado River Trail, where people today are forced onto a narrow stretch of highway with little to no shoulder. For years, this trail gap has created a well-known safety issue in one of the most heavily used recreation areas in the state.

The project marks a major milestone in bringing the Utah Trail Network vision to life.

“A few years ago, we shared a simple but bold idea: connect Utah with trails the same way we’ve connected it with roads,” Utah Gov. Spencer Cox said. “This is the first step in building a truly connected statewide system, and we’re just getting started.”

Once complete, the trail will keep people off the road and along the river, creating a safer and more continuous route for walking and biking.

The project connects several of Moab’s most popular destinations, including Grandstaff Canyon and the Porcupine Rim Trail, part of the well-known “Whole Enchilada” route.

Once complete, mountain bikers finishing the Porcupine Rim trail will be able to ride back to Moab on a continuous and complete paved trail, instead of being forced to ride on the highway.

“This project connects people to places,” UDOT Executive Director Carlos Braceras said. “It makes it easier to move between trails, campgrounds and destinations in Moab without getting on the highway. It’s a great example of how the Utah Trail Network will work across the state.”

In addition to improving safety, the project will make it easier for people to walk or bike between destinations in Moab, helping reduce vehicle traffic and giving visitors and residents more transportation options.

The project is funded through a partnership between UDOT and the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation, with coordination from the Bureau of Land Management and Grand County.

“After more than 20 years, the BLM Moab Field Office is thrilled to see the final phase of this important and extensive project underway,” BLM Canyon Country District Manager Nicollee Gaddis-Wyatt said. “With state and local partner support, this new section of the Colorado River bike path will not only improve access to Grandstaff Canyon and other recreation opportunities, it will provide a safer exit for mountain bikers on the incredibly popular and challenging Whole Enchilada Trail.”