Hell's Revenge: Moab's Slickrock Playground for 4x4 Adventurers
A high-clearance, low-gearing love letter to one of the Southwest's most famous off-road loops.
The first climb on Hell’s Revenge begins before you can fully wake up. Headlamps fade, engines cough into life, and the Jeep noses onto a slab of Entrada sandstone that arcs like a frozen ocean. Dawn slices the La Sal Mountains in the distance, and the slickrock beneath your tires feels alive — warm, grippy, a surface that tests every ounce of traction your rig can offer. The trail is a conversation: the rock daring you forward, wind and sun punctuating the silence, and the canyon floor far below reminding you how small you look when the desert decides to show its teeth.
Trail Wisdom
Air down, then re-inflate
Lower tire pressure (20–25 psi depending on tire/load) improves traction on slickrock; carry a compressor to restore pressure before highway travel.
Book a guide if unsure
Guides know lines, carry recovery gear, and can reduce risk for first-time rock crawlers — a smart investment for your vehicle and safety.
Carry recovery gear
Bring a winch or snatch straps, shackles, and a shovel; even good drivers can get stuck on steep ledges or in hidden ruts.
Time your run
Run early or late to avoid heat; midday summer temperatures increase risk of overheating and sun exposure.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Potash Road petroglyph panels and river access
- •Fins and Things side areas for quieter slickrock exploration
Wildlife
desert bighorn sheep, western rattlesnake (seasonal)
Conservation Note
Stick to established tracks to protect cryptobiotic soil and native plants; support local guide operators who follow sustainable trail practices.
The Entrada Sandstone that dominates the area formed in the Jurassic; ancient peoples inhabited the greater Moab basin and left rock art nearby.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: comfortable temps, wildflower displays, photography at golden hour
Challenges: higher visitation, occasional muddy spots after rain
Spring is prime: temperatures are mild, days are long, and the desert is at its most accessible — expect crowds on popular tour slots.
summer
Best for: long daylight hours, early morning runs, night sky viewing
Challenges: extreme heat, thermal strain on vehicles, midday sun exposure
Summer brings heat; run early, carry extra water, and plan for vehicle cooling strategies.
fall
Best for: cooler temps, stable weather, clear air for photos
Challenges: popular season so book tours early, occasional fall storms
Fall mirrors spring’s advantages with crisp light and comfortable driving conditions — expect high demand for guided trips.
winter
Best for: quiet trails, unique light, clear air
Challenges: cold nights, possible icy patches on shaded rock, shorter days
Winters are quieter and dramatic, but be ready for cold mornings and variable traction where moisture freezes on rock.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
High-clearance 4x4 vehicleEssential
Required to handle steep slickrock climbs and ledges safely.
Air compressor and tire gaugeEssential
For airing down on slickrock and re-inflating for highway travel.
Recovery kit (straps, shackles, gloves)Essential
Essential if you’re self-driving; reduces risk when a vehicle needs extraction.
2 liters of water per personEssential
Hydration is critical in the desert; carry more in hot months.
Common Questions
Do I need a permit to drive Hell's Revenge?
No special permit is required for the trail itself, but always check current BLM or local regulations before you go, and respect any seasonal closures.
Can I do Hell's Revenge in a stock SUV?
A stock SUV with limited clearance is not recommended; the trail requires high clearance, robust 4x4 capability and confidence in rock driving.
Is a guide necessary?
Guides aren’t mandatory but are strongly recommended for first-timers — they provide route knowledge, safety oversight and recovery equipment.
Are there restroom facilities?
No formal facilities on the trail; use Moab services before you go and be prepared to follow Leave No Trace protocols.
How long does the loop take?
Guided groups generally complete the loop in 2–4 hours including stops; self-led trips can take longer depending on skill and vehicle issues.
Is Hell's Revenge suitable for children?
Passengers of all ages ride these tours, but exposure and steep drops make it unsuitable for very young children or those uncomfortable with heights.
What to Pack
Water (2L per person), sun protection (hat + SPF), spare tire & tools (for rocky terrain), portable air compressor (for airing down/up)
Did You Know
The slickrock of the Moab region (Entrada Sandstone) formed about 160 million years ago from wind-blown sand dunes in the Jurassic period — the same rock that creates the trail’s famous contours.
Quick Travel Tips
Book guided tours well in advance in spring/fall; air down tires on slickrock and bring a compressor; tell someone your vehicle and route plan; refill water and fuel in Moab before heading out.
Local Flavor
Moab pairs desert grit with small-town hospitality — local diners, craft breweries, and outfitters celebrate the Jeep and mountain-bike culture that draws global outdoor communities.
Logistics Snapshot
Distance: ~6–8 miles of technical slickrock; Duration: 2–4 hours guided; Permits: none specific; Services: Moab (fuel, food, rentals); Cell: limited on trail.
Sustainability Note
Prioritize staying on established lines to protect cryptobiotic soil, choose guided operators who follow BLM rules, and pack out all waste — small choices preserve the trail for everyone.