Dirt Biking at The Blacktop Ramble III

 

The Blacktop Ramble is held in Torrey, Utah not only because of its proximity to some of the most rip worthy roads, but also its proximity to some of the most iconic dirt biking in the country in Swing Arm City OHV Recreation Area. The Blacktop Ramble is only 35 miles (45 minutes) from Swing Arm City OHV Area, a “freeride” area, which means you’re free to ride anywhere in the designated areas.

Many of the best freestyle motocross riders in the world come here to test their riding and jumping skill on some of the biggest natural jumps to be found anywhere in the world. Swing Arm City is perfect for all riders from beginner to the most advanced of riders. The ground surface is made of bentonite clay which is softer than hard packed dirt and fun as all hell. The terrain includes steep hills and drop offs, single track trails, ridge-line trails, hill climbs, washes, razor-back spine like ridges as well as wide open areas. There’s literally something for everyone.

There is no cell service in the area, so be sure to stay with someone and be familiar with your surroundings. There is a bathroom located at the OHV parking lot. There is a main parking lot just off the highway with a sign which reads Swing Arm City. We encourage our dirt riders to head out to Swing Arm City Saturday morning for a day of riding, giving you enough time to be back for the nights festivities.

 

Trail head GPS Coordinates: 38.365897, -110.915229

DIFFICULTY:  Novice, Intermediate, Expert

SAFETY: Be aware of other riders. There are many hills and obscured areas that could cause collisions. There are also steep drop offs, so be sure to check out the area you’re riding.

Recommend Gear

  • Protective boots, helmet, goggles, and any motocross gear you own

  • Extra gas

  • Hydration Pack

  • Hand guards

  • GoPro

  • Tool pack

  • Skid plate

  • First Aid Kit

  • Water & food

SWING ARM CITY TERRAIN

Washes

If you like riding the washes, you don’t have to look too hard. Although beware of the weather when riding in these areas as they do see a lot of rain and you will not want to be caught in one when the water starts to flow. Here are a couple examples of the washes.

Ridgelines

If you like a challenge and want to test your balancing skills, you can take to the ridges. Once you begin these trails, there’s usually no stopping until you end the trail or slide off. The key is, look ahead, stick with it and if you can help it, don’t stop. If you do, most aren’t too difficult to try again. However, there are some VERY technical trails you should always analyze a bit before attempting.

Hill Climbs

If you’re into hill climbing, there are just about as many types of hill-climbs you can ask for. There are many safe hills that are like giant burms that are easy to navigate up and back down. Others are pretty much straight up with deep ruts from other bikes as well as the water that slowly carves away at them. Pick you’re poison and hold it wide open and hope you come out on top!

Check out the video from GoFastDon’tDie in Swing Arm City HERE

 
Jessica WiseComment