Mountain Biking the Dead Ringer Loop: Virgin Utah’s Hidden Gem

Stretching just under three miles with a modest 277 feet of elevation gain, the Dead Ringer trail embraces riders and hikers alike on the northern edge of Virgin, Utah. This route offers a raw, compelling slide away from the bustling JEM trail, which it parallels and loops around, giving adventurers a fresh perspective on this desert mesa landscape.

Beginning at the JEM Trailhead, the path steadily navigates north past the eclectic More Cowbell Trail before veering northwest at the iconic "bell" sign. Here, the trail abandons the mesa’s flat summit to flirt along its side, where the earth rolls beneath your wheels or feet in a series of gentle undulations. These subtle hills provide moments of surprise, pushing you just enough to feel energized but leaving room to appreciate the surrounding silence and sweeping views.

Despite its brevity, this trail’s layout rewards explorers with a fluid riding experience hugging the side of the mesa and weaving through varied terrain that balances smooth sections with textured rollers. This makes Dead Ringer a favorite alternate to the more heavily trafficked JEM, particularly for mountain bikers seeking less one-way traffic and a freer rhythm.

The trail also connects effortlessly with others—expanding your journey through Cryptobiotic and Goosebumps trails back to Dead Ringer or looping with JEM for a longer adventure. Mountain biking takes center stage here, but hikers and trail runners will find the course equally enjoyable, with shaded pockets and open vistas offering a rich backdrop.

In practice, the trail exposes you to the warm breeze that sweeps Virgin’s desert air and the rugged geological features carved by millennia of wind and water. This environment encourages you to read the land carefully: the rocky soil that crunches underfoot, the distant calls of birds, and the sun draping golden light across red rock edges.

Planning your trip here means preparing for dry conditions and limited shade. The approachable technical nature, coupled with the manageable climb, makes this a great option for beginners eager to test their skills as well as experienced riders looking for a relaxed yet engaging afternoon.

Whether your goal is to cruise the rollers on a bike or move swiftly with a lightweight running pack, Dead Ringer brings a fresh, less crowded mountain desert experience to Virgin’s doorstep. Embrace the trail’s blend of adventure and accessibility and let the dry desert wind and open skies refresh your spirit.