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Sunshine Loop and Dutchman Mountain Bike Trails

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

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Sunshine Loop and Dutchman Mountain Bike Trails

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is a federal government agency that manages public lands. These lands include forests, grasslands, deserts, and wetlands. The BLM controls over 23 million acres of public land in Utah, making up about 42 percent of the state. One way the BLM achieves its mission is by allowing people to camp on public lands. Bureau of Land Management free camping is widely offered in Utah, but some developed campgrounds may charge a small fee. You can find BLM sites by searching online for "BLM camping near me."

Sunshine loop and Dutchman Mountain Bike Trails are two of the most popular BLM camping areas in Utah. The trails are located in St. George and are great places for mountain biking, hiking, and off-roading. Mountain, dirt, and e-bikes are allowed on the trails. Zion National Park is 50 miles east of the trails, and a day trip to the park can easily be done. Bryce Canyon National Park is also close by — only a two-hour drive away. The weather in St. George is generally warm and sunny year-round.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Sunshine Loop and Dutchman Mountain Bike Trails

Both trails are great for mountain biking and hiking. The courses are well-maintained and offer stunning views of the surrounding scenery. Bikers are advised to carry a map with them while exploring the trails.

Length: 17 miles

Intensity: Easy to Moderate

Aspiration Trail

Aspiration Trail is less crowded and offers a more challenging ride. The track is located in the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve.

Length: 8 miles

Intensity: Moderate to Difficult

New Bearclaw Poppy Navajo Trailhead

This trail is not recommended for beginner mountain bikers. The track is also located in the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve.

Length: 8 miles

Intensity: Difficult

Mayor's Loop

Mayor's Loop offers fantastic views of red cliffs, white dunes, and lava flows. Dogs are allowed, but they must be on a leash.

Length: 6 miles

Intensity: Easy

Fishing and Boating

There is no fishing along the two trails, but Quail Creek Reservoir is located nearby and is a great place to fish. You can expect to catch rainbow trout, largemouth bass, catfish, bluegill, and crappie. Non-motorized watercraft and boats with electric motors are allowed on the reservoir.

Climbing

Located just 12 miles from the Sunshine Loop Trailhead, Moe's Valley Climbing Area is a great place for beginner and experienced climbers alike. The area has over 100 established routes. Green Valley Gap Climbing Area offers numerous experiences for rock climbing. The place is 13 miles away from the Sunshine Loop trail. This is an excellent place for beginners to build their confidence in climbing.

Wildlife Viewing

The area is home to various wildlife, including mule deer, bighorn sheep, bobcats, coyotes, and lizards. The best time to see wildlife is early in the morning or in the evening. There are various wildlife viewing spots along the trail.

Picnicking

Picnicking is permitted along Sunshine Loop and Dutchman Mountain Bike Trails. There are various picnicking spots provided in the area. Tables and grills are available in some of the picnic areas.

Off-roading

The trails are open to off-road vehicles. However, vehicles must stay on designated roads and paths.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

BLM RV camping around Sunshine Loop and Dutchman Mountain Bike Trails is possible, but you can also find private campgrounds that offer more amenities. For example, Desert Canyons RV Park is located just off I-15, about three miles from the trailhead. Quail Creek RV Resort is just 21 miles north of the Sunshine Loop trailhead. It is conveniently close to Quail Creek Reservoir. Both campgrounds offer full hookups, Wi-Fi, and on-site showers, among other amenities.

Free Camping

Free camping is not available near Sunshine Loop and Dutchman Mountain Bike Trails. However, numerous Bureau of Land Management campgrounds in the area offer free camping. Dispersed camping is permitted in some regions of the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve. There is a 14-day limit for camping in reserve.

RV Rentals Near Sunshine Loop and Dutchman Mountain Bike Trails Plan your next adventure

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Sunshine Loop and Dutchman Mountain Bike Trails BLM trip

BLM camping around Sunshine Loop and Dutchman Mountain Bike Trails is an excellent way of experiencing the area's beauty. The weather is generally mild in the winter and spring, making it a great time to visit. However, summer temperatures can be scorching, so visitors should bring plenty of sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. The geography of the area is varied, with something to offer everyone. Bring along a map as the numerous trails nearby can be confusing to navigate.

Cooking is not allowed near the Sunshine Loop and Dutchman Mountain Bike Trails, so plan accordingly. Be sure to carry enough food and water for your adventure. Cell phone coverage is very limited in the area, so you should leave your itinerary with a friend or family member.

Hunting is not permitted near the Sunshine Loop and Dutchman Mountain Bike Trails. St. George, Utah is the closest city, and it is about nine miles from the Sunshine Loop Trailhead. The town offers numerous amenities for visitors, including restaurants, grocery stores, and gas stations. Before you head out on your trip, be sure to check out our blog for everything you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

When camping near Sunshine Loop and Dutchman Mountain Bike Trails, it is necessary to follow the Leave No Trace principles. Always plan and prepare. Dispose of waste properly. Build campfires in designated areas only. Respect wildlife and do not disturb them. Travel on marked trails, and respect other visitors by being considerate of their experience. Following these principles will help ensure that everyone can enjoy the beauty of Sunshine Loop and Dutchman Mountain Bike Trails.

Sunshine Loop and Dutchman Mountain Bike Trails Location

To reach Sunshine Loop and Dutchman Mountain Bike Trails from St. George, take I-15 north for about 33 miles. Exit at the first Hurricane exit (Exit 16). Turn left onto State Route 9, and travel west for about 21 miles. Turn right onto an unmarked dirt road (also known as the Diamond Fork Road) just after the Arizona/Utah border. This road will take you to the trailhead.

From Phoenix, take I-17 north to Flagstaff. Continue on I-40 west for about 145 miles. Exit onto US-89 north and travel for about 43 miles. Turn right onto US-89A and continue for about 12 miles. Turn left to stay on US-89A and travel for about another 12 miles. US-89A will merge onto I-15 south. Exit at the first Hurricane exit (Exit 16). Turn right onto State Route 9 and travel west for about 21 miles. Turn right onto an unmarked dirt road (also known as the Diamond Fork Road) just after the Arizona/Utah border.

Address: Arizona Strip Field Office, 345 E. Riverside Dr., St. George, UT 84790

Ready to visit Sunshine Loop and Dutchman Mountain Bike Trails? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day of exploring, you'll have your RV to return to for the night, enjoying a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.