Slickrock and Sunset: Conquering Hell’s Revenge at Sand Flats Recreation Area
Drive the legendary slickrock, chase sunset panoramas, and see the ancient tracks left by dinosaurs.
You can taste the grit in the air before you see the land — a mineral tang that clings to the back of your throat and promises something older than roads, older than roadsigns. The slickrock rolls away from Moab in a rust-colored sea of Navajo sandstone; sunlight knifes across domes and fins, catching every grain like a million tiny lanterns. Engines rattle to life behind you — a chorus of Kawasaki KRXs, custom Hummers and old-school Jeeps — and your guide calls out a final safety check with the calm of someone who knows these ledges and ridgelines like the lines on their palm. Then you climb.
Trail Wisdom
Time your run for golden hour
Sunset and early morning spray the slickrock with dramatic color and lower temperatures — book a sunset tour for the best light and cooler conditions.
Hydrate beyond thirst
Bring at least 1–2 liters per person for short tours and more for longer outings; desert air is deceptively dehydrating.
Wear closed-toe shoes and layers
Supportive closed-toe shoes help when climbing in and out of vehicles; bring a windproof layer as temperatures drop fast after sunset.
Respect cryptobiotic soil and stay on trail
Avoid stepping off marked areas — microscopic soil crusts prevent erosion and take decades to recover if damaged.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Dinosaur track pockets in lower-lying fins (ask your guide for exact stops)
- •Small overlooks into the Colorado River canyon that are quieter than the main viewpoints
Wildlife
Desert cottontail rabbit, Raven
Conservation Note
Operators emphasize staying on designated trails to protect cryptobiotic soils and reduce erosion; pack out all trash and minimize vehicle noise near wildlife.
Sand Flats’ trails evolved with decades of local off-road use and host features tied to early trail-blazing communities; the area also plays a role in the region’s Jeep Safari tradition.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: moderate temperatures, wildflower season, dinosaur track viewing
Challenges: occasional afternoon storms, variable trail conditions
Spring offers comfortable days and blooming desert flora; expect cooler mornings and the possibility of sudden showers that can make slickrock slippery.
summer
Best for: long daylight hours, early-morning runs, night photography
Challenges: extreme heat, limited midday tours, water needs increase
Summer is hot—schedule early-morning or sunset tours, carry extra water, and avoid mid-day when temperatures soar.
fall
Best for: ideal riding weather, vivid sunsets, stable trail conditions
Challenges: popular season — book early, cooler evenings
Fall is the sweet spot for most visitors: balanced temps, spectacular light, and reliable trail conditions—reserve tours in advance.
winter
Best for: quiet trails, dramatic low-sun landscapes, clear air for distant views
Challenges: cold mornings, possible closure after precipitation, shorter daylight
Winter can be cold but serene; watch for brief closures after storms and layer up for brisk mornings and chilly evenings.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Hydration pack or 1–2L water bottleEssential
Keeps you hydrated on dry trails where shade is scarce.
Sunglasses and wide-brim hatEssential
Protects eyes and face from intense sun and glare off slickrock.
Closed-toe hiking shoesEssential
Provides grip for climbing in/out of vehicles and walking short trail sections.
Compact camera or wide-angle lens (for photographers)
Captures sweeping foreground-to-background desert compositions and golden-hour color.
Common Questions
Do I need a driver’s license to drive a UTV on Hell’s Revenge?
Most U-Drive UTV experiences require drivers to be 21 with a valid driver’s license; check the operator’s policy before booking.
How long are the typical tours in Sand Flats Recreation Area?
Tours typically range from 2 to 3.5 hours — shorter 'Tip-toe' options focus on scenery while longer options tackle more technical obstacles.
Are dinosaur tracks reliably visible on tours?
Many guided tours include stops at documented dinosaur track sites; visibility depends on weather and seasonal conditions but guides know where to find them.
Is Sand Flats suitable for children or families?
Yes — many operators run family-friendly Hummer and Jeep tours; however, some extreme runs are not recommended for very young children or those sensitive to steep drops.
What should I wear for an off-road tour?
Closed-toe shoes, sun-protective clothing, and a light wind layer for post-sunset chills are recommended; helmets or harnesses will be provided if required.
Can I go off-trail or walk on the slickrock freely?
No — off-trail travel harms cryptobiotic soil and fragile desert varnish; stay on designated routes and follow guide instructions.
What to Pack
Water bottle or hydration pack, sun protection (sunscreen + hat), closed-toe shoes for vehicle ingress, layered jacket for sunset chills
Did You Know
The Navajo Sandstone exposed at Sand Flats was once enormous cross-bedded dunes—deposited about 180–190 million years ago—whose layers preserve dinosaur footprints still visible today.
Quick Travel Tips
Book sunset tours early; avoid midday summer heat; confirm driver age/license rules before arrival; carry cash or card for tips and small purchases
Local Flavor
Moab’s small downtown blends outdoor culture and hospitality — cozy diners serve hearty breakfasts, local breweries and taco joints fuel post-ride storytelling, and outfitters are often family-run with decades of regional knowledge.
Logistics Snapshot
Duration: 2–3.5 hrs | Best time: early morning or sunset | Driver min age often 21 | Bring water, sun protection, and closed-toe shoes | Stay on designated trails
Sustainability Note
Choose operators that follow Leave No Trace, stay on marked routes to protect cryptobiotic soils, and avoid idling engines near sensitive wildlife or archaeological sites.