The two ridgeline trails, Moore Fun and to a lesser degree
Mack Ridge are the most technical, physically demanding trails within the Kokopelli trail network between Loma and Mack. They also offer up some of the most spectacular views in the system.
Moore Fun is best ridden west to east. Though the west end is a bit steeper, the downhill reward on the east end is worth the sacrifice. The west end of the trail also begins 200' higher and the climb is half the distance in length. The numerous hike-a-bike sections along the climb also permit rest opportunities.
Access Moore Fun from the west end of
Mary's Loop at a saddle on the ridge with a parking area between
Mack Ridge and Moore Fun.
Moore Fun begins at the eastern end of the parking area through a gate. The trail climbs at a manageable gradient through a technical section with several tight squeezes. After climbing a few switchbacks, Moore Fun crosses to the northern side of the ridge between
Mary's Loop and
Hawkeye Road.
From this point to the top the trail becomes increasingly more technical, requiring most mortals to walk many of the challenging, rocky, technical sections. After a particularly tough, step-up switchback, Moore Fun crosses back to the
Mary's side of the ridge. From here to the first promontory is mostly rideable; however the grade averages 10% for about 1/2 mile. Near the top, the trail does mellow somewhat.
After 1 1/4 miles of climbing top out at an amazing viewpoint offering nearly 360 degree views of the trails below and Book Cliffs to the north. The climb should take about 30-60 minutes, and perhaps less for the uber-fit. From here, descend east, then climb to a second promontory, the ride high point and another amazing viewpoint.
Moore Fun is downhill almost all the way below this point. Initially, the descent switches back and forth on the north side of the ridge before passing through a flat pass to the south. From this point to the bottom is the most technical section of descent, with numerous steeps, rocky step-downs, squeeze points and one, particularly nasty little climb.
The descent requires a lot of focus, with very little opportunities to regroup and prepare for the next challenge. At the valley floor, Moore Fun crosses a doubletrack and finishes smoothly out to the gravel
Kokopelli Trail road.
9 Comments