Explore Southern Utah’s Red Rock Desert on a Full-Day UTV Backcountry Adventure
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires stamina to stay alert on bumpy terrain for extended periods.
Overview
Experience five hours traversing Southern Utah’s Red Rock Desert by UTV, visiting ancient petroglyphs, sparkling gypsum mines, dinosaur tracks, and historic forts. This accessible off-road tour combines thrilling landscapes with rich cultural history just outside Zion National Park.
Explore Southern Utah’s Red Rock Desert on a Full-Day UTV Backcountry Adventure
Select participants and date
The sun beats down on rust-hued cliffs as you kick up a trail of dust from your UTV, the engine humming through the vast canyons and plateaus of Southern Utah’s Red Rock Desert. This five-hour tour is a kinetic journey skirting the edge of Zion National Park while dipping briefly into Arizona’s rugged borderlands. From your seat, the rugged landscape unfolds: distant Zion’s majestic mountains stand guard like ancient sentinels, while closer to the trail, the earth reveals layers of time etched in petroglyphs and dinosaur tracks.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Hydrate Frequently
Carry and drink plenty of water to combat desert heat during the 5-hour tour.
Wear Durable Footwear
Closed-toe, sturdy shoes protect your feet from rocky terrain and dust.
Protect Yourself from Sun
Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection on exposed desert trails.
Bring a Camera with Extra Battery
The scenic vistas and unique geological and historical points offer excellent photo opportunities.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Desert cottontail rabbits
- Golden eagles soaring overhead
History
The region bears signs of Native American habitation with ancient petroglyphs, alongside frontier history highlighted by an abandoned fort from the Blackhawk War era.
Conservation
Visitors are encouraged to stay on marked trails to protect fragile desert ecosystems, and efforts are in place to preserve petroglyph sites from erosion and vandalism.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in St. George
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Helmet
Provided by the tour operator to ensure safety during off-road driving.
Closed-Toe Hiking Shoes
Protect feet and provide traction over uneven desert surfaces.
Sun Protection (Hat and Sunscreen)
Shield skin and eyes from intense desert sun exposure.
summer specific
Lightweight Layered Clothing
Prepare for temperature fluctuations between morning chills and afternoon heat.
spring;fall specific