Pedal, Paddle, Pedal: Moab Mountain Biking & Packrafting Combo

If you’re eyeing a day full of physical activity, stunning scenery, and a touch of adventure, then the Pedal, Paddle, Pedal tour near Moab might just be your perfect match. Offered through Desert Highlights for around $670 per person, this private experience packs in approximately 10 hours of multi-sport fun that takes you from dusty mountain roads straight to the scenic banks of the Green River. Its combination of mountain biking and packrafting gives a well-rounded taste of what desert and river adventures are all about.

One possible consideration for travelers: this is a ** physically demanding** day. You’ll need a moderate fitness level to keep pace with the activities — but the effort is well worth it for the awe-inspiring views and genuine adventure. The inclusive nature, such as hotel pickup and lunch, adds great value for a full-day trip.

What makes this tour stand out are the expert guides and the authenticity of the experience. You’ll love how smoothly it runs, thanks to thoughtful planning, and the surprisingly scenic float along Labyrinth Canyon. The chance to explore a remote part of the Green River outside of the busy national parks feels uniquely special. However, if you’re considering this experience, be prepared for an active schedule with some physical climbing and boating involved.

Highlights of the Moab Mountain Biking & Packrafting Tour

– Private Tour Experience: Only your group participates, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.
– Multi-Faceted Adventure: Combines mountain biking, river floating, and a short final bike ride, offering variety and a full-day outdoor challenge.
– Stunning Scenery: Features views of the Green River, Labyrinth Canyon, and a historic inscription from early explorers – perfect for photography enthusiasts.
– Inclusive & Convenient: Pickup and drop-off from your Moab hotel and all gear are included, making logistics easy.
– Dining & Hydration: Lunch is included, and travelers are encouraged to bring plenty of water (2-3 liters per person) to stay well-hydrated during the active day.

The Itinerary: What Makes This Day Special?

The adventure begins early, with a hotel pickup either included or pre-arranged. We love how this minimizes hassle and maximizes your time on the trail and river. Meeting at Desert Highlights’ base, you’ll find yourself fitted with a mountain bike and packraft, gear designed for comfort and safety, all professional and experienced guides ready to assist.

You’ll start with a 45-minute drive west of Moab, shifting gears into a scenic ride along an old mining road. This stretch is where the physical excitement builds — you’ll descend over 1,000 feet of elevation along a trail that offers both a thrill and incredible desert vistas. Reviews highlight how guides like Herb expertly keep the pace manageable, especially for families or those new to mountain biking, describing the descent as an “easy pace” on fat-tire bikes.

Once you reach the Green River’s edge, the real fun begins: you’ll inflate your packraft, strap your bike to the front, and float downstream through Labyrinth Canyon. An early explorer’s inscription along the river offers a glimpse into the area’s past—it’s a nice historical touch that spices up the scenic float. Travelers frequently describe this part as spectacular and relaxing, with the calm waters offering more than just stunning views — it’s a peaceful break from more bustling tourist activities.

After the float, you’re back on your bikes for a final 3-mile ride back along the trail, finishing the multi-sport day by linking your river experience with more turns on two wheels. This last leg gives you a different perspective of the canyon’s beauty, completing a well-rounded adventure.

Authentic Comments From Participants

Multiple reviews praise how Herb and Melissa contributed to a smooth, enjoyable experience, answering questions beforehand and taking great care of participants along the way. One said, “Herb took us on an awesome trip… and was very knowledgeable,” highlighting the value of having a guide who genuinely knows the area.

Another guest mentioned how “Herb explained how to inflate the kayaks,” emphasizing the importance of excellent guiding for confidence and safety. Many reviewers liked how “scenery was spectacular” and considered the trip “really unique”, especially for families or those seeking something off the beaten path.

Breaking Down the Experience: What You’ll Love & Consider

This tour genuinely excels in delivering a tailored, memorable outing. The private nature ensures your group isn’t rushed and can enjoy the scenery at your own pace. Being active for about 8-10 hours, you’ll get both a sightseeing trip and a workout — so stamina and moderate fitness help, but guides are accommodating.

The gear and equipment are top-notch, all included, which means you won’t want for comfort or safety aboard your mountain bike or packraft. Plus, the transportation from Moab makes logistics entirely manageable, especially if you’re staying in the town’s hotels or vacation rentals.

While the activity is physically demanding—primarily due to biking and walking on uneven terrain—the conclusion of the day offers extraordinarily scenic views that are highly rewarding.

Value-wise, considering the inclusion of transportation, gear, a private guide, and lunch, the price reflects a premium experience but pays off in a complete, hassle-free adventure. It’s perfect for travelers wanting more than just the typical sightseeing; this is about truly experiencing Moab’s wilderness with expert guidance.

The Scenery & Unique Features

You’ll get remarkable views early and often — from the desert landscapes on the old mining road to the serene Green River float through Labyrinth Canyon. The float itself feels almost meditative, with the calm water and towering canyon walls drawing you in. The historical inscription spot adds a touch of context and curiosity, making it more than just a scenic float.

Unlike some outdoor activities, this tour emphasizes small-group intimacy. Travelers enjoyed the personalized care they received, especially with guided instructions tailored to all experience levels.

The final bike ride offers a different perspective on the landscape, letting you see more of the canyon while still enjoying a manageable ride. This combination ensures you leave with a well-rounded, in-depth feeling of Moab’s wilderness.

Price & Value Examination

While $670 per person may seem steep compared to a typical day hike or standard bike rental, the pricing includes multiple elements: all gear, transportation, lunch, and a private guide. Given the customized experience and expert guiding, it offers excellent value for active travelers seeking a comprehensive outdoor adventure.

All necessary gear and an expertly guided day eliminate worries about equipment or route choices, making it especially attractive for those unfamiliar with this type of terrain.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This combo experience is perfect for active travelers who want more than just sightseeing — those craving adventure, scenic beauty, and some physical challenge. Family groups, couples, or solo travelers with a moderate fitness level will find it manageable and rewarding.

Adventure seekers who appreciate authentic guides and a chance to explore remote areas outside of main tourist spots will value this trip deeply. But it’s also suitable for people looking to add variety to their Moab trip without demanding a multi-day commitment.

If you’re chasing stunning views paired with active fun and don’t mind a bit of sweat, this tour should be high on your list.

FAQ About the Pedal, Paddle, Pedal Tour

Is this tour suitable for children? Based on reviews, it’s generally accommodating for families, especially with guides like Herb taking extra care, but it is physically active. Check your kids’ comfort levels with biking and paddling.

What should I bring? Bring plenty of water (2-3 liters recommended) and enough food to last 8-10 hours. Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sunscreen are advised.

Is transportation included? Yes, pickup and drop-off are offered if arranged in advance, making it easy to start and end your adventure conveniently.

How difficult is the biking? The descent is described as easy pace on fat-tire bikes, suitable for most with moderate fitness. The final ride is only about 3 miles.

Will I receive instruction on packing the raft? Yes, guides instruct you on how to inflate and maneuver the packraft, making it accessible for all skill levels.

What if the weather turns bad? The trip requires good weather, and if canceled because of poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.

How long does the tour last? The activity runs approximately 10 hours — perfect for those wanting a full-day outdoor adventure.

Is the trip suitable for those new to outdoor activities? With guides explaining every step and manageable ride sections, it’s friendly for beginners ready to try something new.

Final Thoughts

The Pedal, Paddle, Pedal tour near Moab offers a terrific way to combine adrenaline with scenic tranquility in one full day. The combination of mountain biking, a quiet river float, and a final easy ride delivers a genuine sense of adventure with plenty of extraordinary vistas. The knowledgeable, friendly guides ensure safety and fun, adding valuable local insights along the way.

While it’s an active outing, the exceptional settings, expert guidance, and all-inclusive setup make this an attractive choice for travelers chasing authentic, outdoor experiences. It’s especially well-suited for those who want to truly connect with the natural beauty of southern Utah beyond the usual tourist spots, seeing Moab’s rugged wilderness in a way that few other tours can match.

If you’re prepared for a full day on your feet and looking to explore in a way that’s both engaging and scenic, the Pedal, Paddle, Pedal experience offers unbeatable value. Just bring your sense of adventure and a good pair of shoes — and you’ll come away with memories of a different side of Moab.