Aquarius Trail Hut System: 190 Miles of Backcountry Biking in Utah
If you’re an avid mountain biker, you know that Utah’s epic landscapes are a haven for adventure. The state is home to hundreds of miles of stunning trails that offer everything from rocky, steep descents to smooth, flowy singletrack. But what if you could experience all of this while enjoying the comforts of backcountry huts along the way? Enter the Aquarius Trail Hut System, a 190-mile backcountry biking route through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world.
The Aquarius Trail Hut System
Inspired by the popularity of hut-to-hut skiing in Colorado and Europe, the Aquarius Trail Hut System is a relatively new addition to Utah’s outdoor recreation scene. Opened in 2018, the system was created by the nonprofit organization Utah’s Canyon Country Business Alliance, in collaboration with a group of local bikers and outdoor enthusiasts. The concept is simple: a multi-day, self-supported backcountry biking trip that takes riders through some of Utah’s most remote and spectacular landscapes, with overnight stays in comfortable backcountry huts along the way.
The Route
The Aquarius Trail Hut System spans 190 miles and connects five remote mountain towns: Escalante, Boulder, Torrey, Antimony, and Panguitch. The route winds through the Dixie National Forest, Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Capitol Reef National Park, and the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, offering unparalleled views of red rock canyons, towering mountains, and expansive vistas.
The entire route is divided into five segments, each averaging around 40 miles. Riders can choose to tackle the entire system in one go or break it up into smaller sections, depending on their skill level and available time. The system also has alternate routes and side trips for those looking for a more challenging adventure.
The Huts
One of the highlights of the Aquarius Trail Hut System is, of course, the huts themselves. Each hut is equipped with basic amenities to make your overnight stays as comfortable and convenient as possible. This includes bunk beds, a fully-stocked kitchen, restrooms, and parking for your bikes. The huts use a solar power system and provide limited cell phone service, allowing riders to stay connected while still enjoying the secluded nature of the trip.
The huts are also strategically located near natural water sources, making it easy to refill your water bottles before hitting the trail. And with the system’s Leave No Trace policy, riders are responsible for bringing out their trash and leaving the huts in the same condition they found them.
Suggested Itinerary
While the Aquarius Trail Hut System can be ridden in any direction, the suggested starting point is in Escalante, where riders can access the first hut and begin their journey. The first segment takes riders from Escalante to Boulder, passing through the stunning Escalante River canyons and winding up to the high alpine forests of Boulder Mountain.
The second segment from Boulder to Torrey features the most technical terrain, with steep descents and challenging climbs, as riders make their way through the famous Red Canyon. The third segment from Torrey to Antimony offers a bit of relief, with more flowy singletrack and breathtaking views of Capitol Reef National Park.
The final segment from Antimony to Panguitch takes riders through the Fishlake National Forest and ends with a thrilling 18-mile descent back to Panguitch, where the trail started.
Why You Should Try It
The Aquarius Trail Hut System is not your average mountain biking experience. It offers the perfect blend of challenge and comfort, allowing riders to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of Utah’s backcountry while still enjoying the comforts and convenience of the huts. It’s also a great way to support local businesses and contribute to the preservation of Utah’s natural landscapes. So if you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable biking adventure, give the Aquarius Trail Hut System a try.
And remember, always stay safe and follow the Leave No Trace principles while on the trail. Happy riding!
