Stretching more than 140 miles from Loma, Colorado, to Moab, Utah, the Kokopelli Trail is a mountain biker’s adventure playground. The section near Grand Junction offers a particularly rewarding experience, with rugged terrain that challenges your skills and generous views that showcase the Colorado River daring you from canyon edges.

Starting near Loma, the trail quickly shifts from flat stretches into a mix of slickrock and singletrack climbing through juniper and piñon pine. The air holds a dry, earthy scent as you navigate technical switchbacks, each turn revealing broad, sun-scorched landscapes where the river winds below like a restless current pushing forward.

Expect roughly 20 miles of riding if you focus on the most scenic overlooks near Grand Junction, with elevation shifts of about 1,500 feet that demand steady climbing and confident descents. The ground frequently alternates between packed dirt, gritty sand, and slickrock slabs. It’s a ride that respects you when you respect it—here, nature remains fiercely itself, testing your balance and endurance.

Plan your ride in late spring or early fall for cooler temperatures and to avoid the summer’s intense heat. Hydration is non-negotiable; the high-desert sun doesn’t relent. Durable, grippy tires and a well-maintained bike are crucial, along with layered clothing to manage sudden temperature swings.

Pause at viewpoints overlooking the Colorado River, where the water’s deep blue contrast brings the red rock canyons to vivid life. These spots are perfect for moments of reflection and photos. Keep an eye out for local fauna—ravens and lizards are quick to dart around, while mule deer occasionally peer curiously from shaded thickets.

Whether you’re carving through technical parts or cruising open ridge sections, the Kokopelli Trail near Grand Junction offers an immersive mountain biking experience that balances adrenaline and scenery. It’s accessible enough for intermediate riders ready to push themselves, yet raw enough to leave a lasting impression.

Preparation is key. Start early to beat the heat, pack plenty of water and snacks, and double-check your bike’s suspension and brakes. Respect the trail — tread lightly, and leave it as wild as you found it. This ride isn’t just about conquering miles; it’s about engaging with a land that moves and breathes on its own terms.