Riding the White Rim

A back-country riding adventure through Canyonlands National Park with Rim Tours.

Some of the best adventures happen on a whim, and this past weekend was proof of that. With a last-minute invite, I found myself embarking on a 3-day, 2-night backpacking trip along the White Rim in Canyonlands National Park—a place that holds a special spot in my heart. The journey, known as the "rim-to-rim" route, was organized by Rim Tours, and over the course of 130 km, we pedalled along rugged 4x4 roads, our jaws dropping in awe at every turn.

From the moment we set out, it was clear this would be a trip to remember. The vast desert landscape stretched endlessly, with red rock formations towering above us and dramatic canyons cutting deep into the earth. Every twist and turn in the trail revealed a new perspective—some views so stunning they seemed almost unreal. The sheer scale of Canyonlands is something that can't be fully grasped until you're deep within it, surrounded by its immensity.

The experience was nothing short of incredible. Dusty and tired, yet fueled by camaraderie, we camped in some of the most remote and stunning locations I've ever witnessed. While clouds denied us colourful sunsets, we were treated to breathtaking sunrises, where the sky turned fiery shades of orange and pink, casting an otherworldly glow over the desert and canyon walls. As night fell, the stars came out in full force, unobstructed by city lights. Lying in my tent and gazing up at the Milky Way stretching across the sky was a humbling experience—a reminder of just how small we are in the grand scheme of things.

The desert wind was relentless—because, well, it's the desert—but it only added to the adventure. Gusts would kick up dust and rattle our tents, but there was something exhilarating about battling the elements, knowing that we were deep in the backcountry, far from civilization. It made every mile we covered feel like an achievement.

Of course, long days in the saddle meant a serious need for fuel. I probably consumed about two pounds of sugar on the bike—an endless supply of fuzzy peaches, chewy candies, Sour Patch Kids and cookies to keep the pedals turning. But thanks to the guides at Rim Tours, our meals were nothing short of a five-star dining experience—deep in the backcountry, no less. I'm talking about fresh salads, hearty sandwiches, savoury soul-filling dinners, and even gourmet breakfasts and coffee that made crawling out of my sleeping bag in the chilly morning so much easier. There was absolutely no chance of a calorie deficit on this trip!

Speaking of the guides, Dave, Will, and Patrick were outstanding. Their enthusiasm for riding, knowledge of the local terrain and geology, and dedication to ensuring everyone was well taken care of made all the difference. Whether it was offering tips on tricky descents, sharing stories about the history of the White Rim, or making sure everyone had enough water and snacks, they went above and beyond.

Rim Tours makes it incredibly easy to adventure, so you get to enjoy every minute you're out there. They secured permits, booked our camp spots, and ensured we had everything we needed while running a seamless operation with Rim Tours' custom-built support vehicle. Not having to carry our own gear, food, and water allowed us to truly enjoy the ride without the extra weight—an absolute game-changer in a place as remote as this.

If you're looking for an epic mountain biking adventure, I can't recommend this trip enough. The peace of mind that comes with having logistics handled—so all you have to do is ride and soak in the views—is priceless. The White Rim delivers adventure in its purest form, and with Rim Tours at the helm, it's an unforgettable experience. Whether you're a seasoned rider looking for an incredible backcountry challenge or someone eager to experience the magic of Canyonlands on two wheels, this trip is a must-do.