Abajo Mountains

Overview

The Abajo Mountains (also known as the Blue Mountains) rise dramatically from the desert floor near Monticello, offering a completely different riding experience from Utah’s famous slickrock. This is where locals go when summer heat makes desert riding unbearable.

Trail Highlights

Shay Mountain Loop

• Distance: 32 miles
• Difficulty: Advanced
• Highlights: Epic views, technical single track, alpine meadows
• Elevation Gain: 3,200 feet
• Time: 4-6 hours

Robertson Pasture Trail

• Distance: 18 miles
• Difficulty: Intermediate
• Highlights: Flowing single track, aspen groves, wildlife viewing
• Trail Type: Loop
• Time: 2-3 hours

North Creek Trail

• Distance: 14 miles
• Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced
• Highlights: Creek crossings, technical rock sections, old growth forest
• Trail Type: Out and back
• Time: 3-4 hours

Blue Mountain Loop

• Distance: 25 miles
• Difficulty: Intermediate
• Highlights: 360-degree views, wildflower meadows, gradual climbs
• Trail Type: Loop
• Time: 3-4 hours

Access Points

Monticello (Primary Access)

• Location: Highway 191 to Blue Mountain Road
• Amenities: Full services in town
• GPS: 37.8711, -109.3426
• Notes: Paved road to multiple trailheads

Dalton Springs Campground

• Location: Forest Road 0079
• Amenities: Camping, water, restrooms
• GPS: 37.9156, -109.3567
• Fee: $10/night camping

Lloyd’s Lake Trailhead

• Location: Forest Road 0088
• Amenities: Parking, primitive camping
• GPS: 37.8234, -109.2789
• Notes: High clearance recommended

Trail Videos

Shay Mountain Epic

Robertson Pasture Flow

North Creek Technical

Blue Mountain Views

Trail Conditions

• Early Season (June): Lower trails clear, snow possible above 10,000 feet
• Peak Season (July-August): All trails accessible, afternoon thunderstorms common
• Late Season (September): Perfect conditions, fall colors starting
• Trail Surface: Mostly single track with some doubletrack connectors

Elevation Considerations

Altitude Effects

• Coming from sea level? Take it easy first day
• Trails range from 7,000 to 11,000 feet
• Reduced power output is normal
• Hydration is critical

Weather Patterns

• Morning rides recommended (afternoon storms)
• Temperature drops 20-30°F from desert floor
• Snow possible even in summer above 10,000 feet
• Lightning risk on exposed ridges

Safety Considerations

• Cell service limited to ridge tops
• Weather changes rapidly
• Wildlife includes bears and mountain lions
• Creek crossings can be dangerous during storms
• Always carry rain gear

Recommended Gear

• Layers for temperature changes
• Rain jacket (afternoon storms)
• Extra water (altitude increases dehydration)
• Bear spray (optional but recommended)
• GPS with downloaded maps

Local Amenities

Monticello (8 miles from trails)

• Multiple hotels and restaurants
• San Juan Hospital
• Auto parts stores
• Grocery stores
• Gas stations

Services

• Blue Mountain Moto (local shop)
• Trail conditions: Monticello Ranger Station
• Guided tours available
• Shuttle services for epic descents

Camping

• Dalton Springs Campground (developed)
• Buckboard Campground (developed)
• Dispersed camping throughout forest
• Lloyd’s Lake (primitive)

Skill Level Recommendations

Intermediate Riders

• Start with Robertson Pasture Trail
• Blue Mountain Loop for endurance
• Lower sections of North Creek
• Avoid Shay Mountain initially

Advanced Riders

• Shay Mountain Loop is a must
• Link multiple trails for epic days
• Explore unmarked single track
• High-altitude training paradise

Local Beta

• Wildflowers peak in July
• Aspen colors stunning in late September
• Avoid hunting season (check dates)
• Trail work parties welcome volunteers

Environmental Considerations

• Stay on designated trails
• Respect watershed areas
• Wildlife has right of way
• Fire restrictions vary by season
• Pack out all trash

Why Ride the Abajos?

Escape the Heat

When Moab hits 100°F, the Abajos offer 70°F perfection. This is Utah’s best-kept secret for summer riding.

True Single Track

Unlike the desert’s technical terrain, the Abajos offer flowing single track through forests and meadows.

Solitude

While Moab is packed, you might not see another rider all day in the Abajos.

Training Ground

High-altitude riding builds fitness fast. Local racers train here for a reason.