By Jon Crowley
I love to explore new areas, so when I got a call from Kawasaki about a ride on the Arapeen Trail System in Utah, I rearranged my schedule to make it happen!
For this ride, we based out of Manti, Utah for two nights. Manti is in the heart of the Sanpete Valley which is home to the Arapeen Trail System in Central Utah. With over 600 miles of side-by-side friendly trails, sprawling across 350,000 acres of the Manti-La SalNational Forest, this area offers plenty of trails to explore from 6,000 feet to almost 11,000 feet. Our trip in late October was just a few weeks after peak Fall color viewing, but the Aspen and Conifer forests were still gorgeous, and I will certainly be back to see all the leaves next year.
Kawasaki MULE Pro 1000
For this adventure, Kawasaki brought two different MULE Pro 1000 vehicles for us to use. The MULE Pro 1000 models are all-new for 2024 and are powered by a larger displacement Kawasaki-built 999cc liquid-cooled, 4-stroke parallel-twin engine that delivers significantly greater power and torque as well as increased top speed that makes it Kawasaki’s fastest MULE ever. Complementing the engine is a sturdy chassis with MULE PRO series performance and long-travel suspension, increased ground clearance, updated front face styling and on select models, Kawasaki’s first self-leveling suspension that adjusts to help keep the vehicle level when fully loaded.
While the MULE Pro is more known for utility use on ranches, farms and job sites, as I experienced over two days on the Arapeen Trail System, it is a capable machine that can stretch its legs on the trail.
Kawasaki MULE PRO-FXT 1000 Ranch Edition and Kawasaki MULE PRO-FXR™ 1000 LE
The Kawasaki MULE PRO-FXT™ 1000 Ranch Edition is a full-sized, high-capacity side x side that features our exclusive 3- to 6-passenger Trans Cab™ system. With a reliable 999cc Kawasaki-built engine, this dependable side x side is ready to transport heavy loads or transport the entire crew without breaking a sweat. Work harder and smarter with the dependable help of the MULE PRO-FXT 1000 LE.
The Kawasaki MULE PRO-FXR™ 1000 LE side x side takes the rugged capability of MULE™ PRO side x sides to the trails. Turn everyday riding into an unrivaled experience with the combination of comfort, capability, and aggressive styling. With a compact size, high-capacity engine and three-passenger seating, the MULE PRO-FXR 1000 is ready to put in the work and then cut loose when the chores are done.
More information regarding the Arapeen Trail System:
- The 3,000 mile Great Western Trail that runs from Canada to Mexico crosses through the Arapeen Trail System
- Typical trail season – July 1 – October 15
- Coming from another state? You will need to purchase a non-resident OHV Permit at ohv.utah.gov
- High Top is 10,897 feet above sea level
- Fall Leaves – September 20 – October 5
- You can access the Arapeen Trail System from Fairview, Mt. Pleasant, Spring City, Ephraim, Manti and Sterling. These are all small towns with limited lodging, stores and restaurants, so plan accordingly.
- You can easily ride from one town to another. Spend the night, then head off to another and make a loop so you can experience more of the trails and towns.
- Sanpete County Lodging: Willow Creek Inn (Ephraim), Country Village Motel (Manti), Horseshoe Mtn. Lodge (Mt. Pleasant), Skyline Motel (Fairview)
- Arapeen Trail Map
