A disturbing act of trail sabotage has sparked outrage and a formal investigation after a Utah dirt bike rider was violently clotheslined by a hidden wire strung across a public trail in the American Fork Canyon area.

The rider, Daniel Bender of Alpine, Utah, was navigating the Hidden Forest Trail, a wooded singletrack, when he struck a thin-gauge black wire suspended at neck height—camouflaged to blend with the surroundings. The wire caught him in the mouth and the impact was strong enough to throw the 225-pound man from his bike, causing injuries that, while not life-threatening, could have been far worse. 

“It was metal, like a light gauge bailing wire; but, small enough that there was no way I was going to see it. Thick enough that it didn’t break,” Bender said in an interview with KUTV. “The wire caught my helmet and then went into my mouth and scraped me like that and threw me off the back of the bike. It could have been a lot worse, you know. It could have hit me in the neck, it could have caused more permanent damage.”

After the incident occurred, Bender and his riding partners took photos to document the crime, then removed the wire and immediately reported the incident to the Utah County Sheriff’s Office, which has since launched an investigation into what officials are calling a “deliberate and dangerous” act.

The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) swiftly condemned the incident, calling it “a deliberate and dangerous attack against the entire outdoor recreation community.” AMA Director of Government Relations Nick Haris emphasized that this is not an isolated case. “Over the years, the AMA has documented similar acts of trail sabotage across the country, capable of causing serious injury or death,” he said.One such case occurred in Colorado, where deadly wire traps were also discovered on another popular off-road trail. 

The wire in the Utah case, described as thin and difficult to see, has reignited concerns about tensions between motorized and non-motorized trail users on public lands. Law enforcement has not yet identified any suspects

“This kind of criminal behavior has no place in our outdoor spaces,” said Haris. “Public lands exist for multiple uses, and no one should fear for their safety when enjoying them”.

The AMA is urging all riders and trail users to remain vigilant. They recommend reporting suspicious activity to local authorities, documenting hazards when safe to do so, and working collaboratively with land managers to ensure trails remain safe and accessible.

The incident has also prompted broader discussions within the off-road communities about trail safety, land use conflicts, and the importance of stewardship. As the investigation unfolds, riders are reminded that unity among all outdoor enthusiasts is essential to preserving access and protecting lives.

Anyone with information related to the incident is encouraged to contact the Utah County Sheriff’s Office.

Author: Rob Dabney

Rob Dabney started a lifelong obsession with motorcycles at the age of 15 when he purchased his first bike – a 1982 Honda MB5. Through his 20’s and 30’s he competed in off-road desert races, including the Baja 250, 500 and 1000. Eventually, his proclivity for exploration led him to dual sport and adventure riding. Rob’s never-ending quest to discover what’s around the next bend has taken him on Adventures in Latin America, Africa, Europe, Asia, and throughout the American West. As a moto journalist, he enjoys inspiring others to seek adventure across horizons both near and far.