Moab Utah is considerd by many to be the mountain biking capitol of the world. The Moab Brands (Bar M) system was one of the first non-motorized trail systems constructed as a result of decisions made in the 2008 Moab BLM management plan. Starting as one trail (Bar M), it has gradually expanded into an interlocking system of 18 trails. All the trails are well-marked with mileages and levels of difficulty; all intersections are signed with "you are here" labels. There are great views of Arches National Park, the Moab red rock country and the LaSal Mountains. Trail difficulty ranges from a children's enclosed play and practice area ("OK Corral") to trails which challenge the most experienced riders. There are trails suitable for novice riders (with appropriate names like "Lazy" and "EZ"). There are also much more advanced trails, with names like "Deadman Ridge" and "Killer B". The numerous trail connections allow for a relatively short ride or an all-day experience.
The trailhead parking area can accommodate a very large number of vehicles, has restroom facilities and even a repair rack with tools. The trailhead is easily accessible form Moab,which hosts a wide variety of tourist facilities. The Moab Brands (Bar M) system is connected by a mountain bike trail to the Klonzo trail system, which offers many additional miles of outstanding biking. Additionally, a paved non-motorized trail leads from the Bar M area back (downhill)to Moab.
The system itself was contracted by and is currently maintained by Moab Trailmix, a collaborative effort between BLM and Grand County, Utah. Trailmix consist of several full-time County employees, and also utilizes large numbers of volunteers. Trails are constructed and signed to the highest standards. BLM maintains trail counters to monitor the level of usage. With the exception of special events such as mountain bike races, the Bar M system and related facilities has been able to accommodate the current level of visitor use. The large number of mountain bike trail systems under BLM management (totaling over 200 miles of trail) helps ensure that no one area becomes overwhelmed.
