Horseshoe Bend, San Rafael Swell

Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend takes you down a seldom seen area of the San Rafael Swell. The feeling of being totally alone really sets in a few miles into the ride when you start down a rough descent, realize you have no cell phone service and can't help but wonder how long it's been since someone else rode down this trail! Take plenty of water, and please let someone know where you are going and when you plan on being back!!!

How to get there: Head west out of Green River on I-70 about 30 miles to exit 129. Turn right at the stop sign at the bottom of the on ramp. There is a parking area immediately to your left. Park here and head east on the dirt road with your shuttle vehicle or you will be faced with a long up hill climb back to your car! Park one car at the exit, the other at the Swinging Bridge campground. The ride heads south, back under the freeway.

Rating:

Scenery:

Length: 28 miles, point to point

Elevation Change: +726' -2,254' = -1,528'

Trailhead GPS: 38,52.937 N, 110,39.552 W elev. 6,629'

We had the opportunity to ride this trail with MECCA and their annual San Rafael Swell Mountain Bike Festival. You will not find a better group of people to ride with! I highly recommend joining them next year at their festival. It will be more then worth the $ 40.00 registration fee (in 2002). They can be reached at:

E-mail: bikemd@emerytelcom.net

Website: www.biketheswell.org

Phone: 435-381-5620

Address:

Emery County Recreation

PO Box 913

Castle Dale UT 84513

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