Dead Horse Loop

Dogs Unknown

E-Bikes Unknown

**See the note at the end of this description**

The Dead Horse Loop Trail is not actually a loop in itself. Other trails combine to make this a loop.

Riding the Dead Horse Loop is an excellent exercise in exercise. The climb is long and mostly gradual, including some doubletrack to keep the excitement at bay at times. This is the kind of trail that grows on you the farther you get into it.

Begin riding from Late Night Parking west through the 3rd tunnel to the south side of Hwy. 160 on doubletrack. Boring desert riding for the first couple miles gradually turns to singletrack which gets better as you proceed. A few steep washes with add enthusiasm. Before you know you're riding through fun scenic terrain. A couple more short doubletrack sections (watch closely for the turns back to singletrack) and you are presented with Satan's Escalator....a series of switchbacks on a steep climb. Mortals walk most of Satan's Escalator. At the top you are faced with a choice of jeep road, hang right and look for the trail to your left in a short distance.

Wilson's Tank Overlook is your next attraction. A very nice view point. Following the track in this area can be difficult as it is broken. You'll be heading back north towards a thrilling descent called 3 Mile Smile. At the top of 3 Mile Smile this trail ends. Enjoy the descent ahead of you or backtrack down on Dead Horse.

**NOTE** That all said, In my personal opinion it is much more fun to ride up Red Valley (3 Mile Smile) and ride this route from the top. With one exception that is the way I ride it every time.