USA — Moab, Utah
The San Juan Huts: Telluride to Moab is a demanding 338km bikepacking route across Colorado's rugged San Juan Mountains and Utah's dramatic desert wilderness. This 6-7 day expedition connects historic Telluride with Moab's renowned trails, offering a profound traverse through diverse ecosystems and geological wonders. Expect significant elevation gains and challenging terrain.
Distance: 338.0 km
Elevation Gain: 11277 m
Difficulty: Challenging
Duration: 6-7 days
The San Juan Huts: Telluride to Moab is an epic multi-day bikepacking route traversing the rugged and breathtaking San Juan Mountains of Colorado and the dramatic desert landscapes of Utah. This challenging expedition connects the historic mining town of Telluride, Colorado, with the world-renowned mountain biking mecca of Moab, Utah, offering a profound journey through diverse ecosystems and geological wonders. Spanning approximately 338 kilometres with an astonishing 11,277 metres of elevation gain, this route is designed for experienced and highly fit riders seeking an immersive wilderness experience. It winds through high alpine passes, remote mountain valleys, and eventually descends into the iconic red rock canyons of the Colorado Plateau. The San Juan Huts system provides essential, rustic backcountry accommodation along the route, offering a unique blend of self-sufficiency and support for this demanding adventure.
The San Juan Huts: Telluride to Moab route is a true test of endurance, skill, and spirit. It is not a single, well-defined trail but rather a curated network of high-altitude dirt roads, rugged singletrack, and historic mining tracks that link the San Juan Huts. The journey begins in the picturesque alpine setting of Telluride, Colorado, nestled in a box canyon surrounded by 13,000-foot peaks. From here, riders ascend into the heart of the San Juan Mountains, a range renowned for its dramatic scenery, challenging terrain, and rich mining history. The initial days are characterised by steep, sustained climbs, high mountain passes often above 3,500 metres, and remote wilderness that demands self-reliance.
As the route progresses westward, the landscape gradually transforms. The alpine meadows and dense forests give way to more arid, high-desert environments. Riders will traverse vast plateaus, descend into deep canyons, and navigate technical sections of trail that require proficient mountain biking skills. The San Juan Huts, strategically placed along the route, offer basic but vital shelter, providing a welcome respite from the elements and a place to resupply and rest. These huts are typically simple structures with bunks, a wood stove, and basic amenities, requiring riders to be fully self-sufficient in terms of food, water treatment, and gear.
The final leg of the journey sees the landscape shift dramatically as riders descend into the iconic red rock country surrounding Moab, Utah. The stark beauty of sandstone formations, vast desert vistas, and the unique geological features of places like Arches National Park (accessible as a detour) provide a stunning contrast to the alpine grandeur of the San Juans. Completing this route is a significant accomplishment, offering an unparalleled adventure through some of the most spectacular and varied terrain in the American West.
The San Juan Mountains have a deep and complex history, shaped by indigenous peoples, Spanish explorers, and later, American prospectors and miners. For centuries, Ute tribes utilized these mountains for hunting and seasonal migration. The discovery of gold and silver in the mid-19th century triggered a mining boom, leading to the establishment of towns like Telluride. The network of roads and trails that form the basis of this bikepacking route often originated as mining access roads, pack trails, and routes used by early settlers and prospectors. Many of these routes are still maintained, albeit in varying conditions, by local land management agencies and the San Juan Huts organization.
The San Juan Huts themselves are a testament to the vision of individuals who sought to make this remote and challenging terrain more accessible for outdoor enthusiasts. Established by the San Juan Hut System, these shelters were conceived to provide a unique backcountry experience, allowing riders and hikers to traverse vast distances with a degree of support. The system aims to preserve the wild character of the region while offering a safe haven for adventurers. The transition from the high alpine environment of Colorado to the desert landscapes of Utah also reflects the geological and ecological diversity of the American West, a region shaped by millennia of natural processes and human interaction.
The optimal season for the San Juan Huts: Telluride to Moab route is from late spring to early autumn, generally from June through October. This period offers the best balance of manageable weather conditions, though significant variations are to be expected.
Late Spring (June): Following the winter snowmelt, the high passes begin to open up. Wildflowers are abundant in the alpine meadows, creating spectacular scenery. However, snow can linger at higher elevations well into June, potentially blocking passes and requiring detours or delays. Rivers and streams will be at their fullest, which can make water crossings challenging. Temperatures can be cool, especially at night, and afternoon thunderstorms are common.
Summer (July-August): This is generally the most popular time to ride. The high passes are typically clear of snow, and the days are longer. However, this period also brings the highest risk of intense afternoon thunderstorms, which can bring lightning, heavy rain, hail, and flash floods. Temperatures in the desert sections of Utah can become extremely hot, often exceeding 35°C, making early morning and late evening riding essential. Sandflies and mosquitoes can be prevalent in wetter areas.
Early Autumn (September-October): This is often considered the prime season. The intense heat of summer subsides, and the risk of thunderstorms decreases. The aspen trees in Colorado begin to turn golden, offering breathtaking autumnal colours. The air is crisp and clear, providing excellent visibility. However, early snowstorms are possible, especially in late October, which can quickly make the high passes impassable. Daylight hours shorten, requiring careful planning for daily mileage.
Winter (November-May): The route is generally impassable due to heavy snow at higher elevations. The San Juan Huts are typically closed or require advanced winter camping skills and equipment. Extreme cold, deep snow, and avalanche risk make this period unsuitable for this bikepacking route.
Day 1: Telluride to Alta Lakes Hut
Day 2: Alta Lakes Hut to Telluride (via Imogene Pass)
Day 3: Telluride to Rico (via Lizard Head Pass)
Day 4: Rico to Dunton Hot Springs Area Hut
Day 5: Dunton Area Hut to Dolores River Valley
Day 6: Dolores River Valley to Moab, Utah
Important Notes:
The San Juan Huts: Telluride to Moab route demands meticulous planning and a high level of preparedness. Riders must be in excellent physical condition, capable of sustained climbing and technical riding over multiple days. Familiarity with bikepacking, navigation, and backcountry survival skills is essential. Given the remote nature of much of the route, self-sufficiency is paramount. This includes carrying sufficient food, water treatment methods, repair tools, and emergency supplies. Coordinating hut bookings with the San Juan Hut System is the first critical step. Riders should also research current trail conditions, especially regarding snowpack at high elevations and potential road closures. Base towns like Telluride and Moab offer amenities for pre- and post-ride logistics, including accommodation, bike shops, and grocery stores. Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ) is the closest major airport to Telluride, requiring a 1.5-hour drive. For those flying into Moab, Canyonlands Field Airport (CNY) is nearby, or Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) offers more flight options but requires a longer drive.
The San Juan Huts system provides the primary accommodation along this route. These are rustic, backcountry shelters designed for bikepackers and hikers. They are not luxurious lodges but functional havens in remote locations.
Hut Facilities:
What's NOT Provided:
Booking Requirements:
The San Juan Huts: Telluride to Moab route primarily utilizes existing roads and trails managed by various land management agencies, including the U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). For the most part, no specific permits are required for bikepacking on these public lands, provided you adhere to regulations. However, it is crucial to be aware of specific rules and regulations for the areas you will be traversing.
San Juan Hut System Reservations: The most critical "permit" or booking required is for accommodation within the San Juan Hut System. These huts are privately managed and require advance reservations. Failure to book a hut will mean you are without shelter, which can be dangerous in the backcountry. Bookings are made directly through the San Juan Hut System's official website and should be secured months in advance, especially for peak season travel.
Land Management Agency Regulations:
Wilderness Areas: Be aware that some sections of the route may pass through or adjacent to designated Wilderness Areas. Bicycles are typically prohibited within designated Wilderness Areas. Routes are carefully chosen to avoid these areas, but it is essential to be aware of boundaries and adhere to regulations.
Fire Restrictions: Always check current fire restrictions for the specific counties and land management areas you will be in. Dry conditions can lead to widespread fire bans, impacting the ability to use camp stoves or build fires.
No Permits for Trail Use: Unlike some national parks or specific trails, there are generally no "entry permits" required for riding the roads and trails that constitute this bikepacking route. The primary requirement is responsible backcountry conduct and adherence to local regulations.
Detailed route notes, maps, logistics & tips for the San Juan Huts Telluride Moab (PDF).
Precisely traced GPX for the San Juan Huts Telluride Moab, ready for your GPS or favourite mapping app.
The regions surrounding the San Juan Huts: Telluride to Moab route offer a wealth of additional outdoor activities for those looking to extend their adventure or explore before or after their bikepacking journey:
Pre-Departure Checks:
Alpine Hazards (Colorado):
Desert Hazards (Utah):
General Safety:
Imogene Pass (Colorado): At 3,962 metres, Imogene Pass is one of the highest drivable (and bikable) passes in North America. The views from the top are spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding San Juan Mountains. The road is a rugged 4x4 track, demanding careful riding and a capable bike. Historic mining ruins dot the landscape, a testament to the area's past.
Dunton Hot Springs Resort Area: While the resort itself is private and exclusive, the surrounding area offers stunning alpine scenery. The San Juan Huts in this vicinity provide access to remote valleys and high mountain terrain, offering a sense of true wilderness isolation.
Lizard Head Pass: This scenic pass on the route between Telluride and Rico offers beautiful views of the distinctive Lizard Head peak. It's a relatively accessible pass, often clear of snow earlier than higher routes.
Dolores River Valley: As the route descends into Utah, the landscape transitions dramatically. The Dolores River Valley offers a glimpse into a more arid, high-desert environment, with different flora and fauna. It serves as a transition zone before the iconic red rock country.
Moab's Red Rock Country: The culmination of the journey is the arrival in Moab. This area is world-famous for its unique geological formations and extensive network of mountain bike trails. Key points of interest include:
The San Juan Huts: Telluride to Moab route traverses some of the most pristine and ecologically sensitive landscapes in the American West. Practicing Leave No Trace (LNT) principles is not just recommended; it is essential for preserving these areas for future generations and ensuring the continued viability of the San Juan Hut System.
Your responsibility as a rider:
By adhering to these principles, you help protect the natural beauty and ecological integrity of the San Juan Mountains and Utah's desert landscapes, ensuring that this incredible bikepacking experience remains sustainable.
