Southern Utah is a paradise for thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its maze of red rock canyons, slickrock trails, and desert plateaus stretching to the horizon, this region offers some of the most exhilarating ATV and side-by-side adventures in the American Southwest. Whether you crave heart-pounding climbs, technical terrain, or open landscapes perfect for cruising, every ride here comes with unforgettable scenery and a hefty dose of adrenaline.
Here are some of the best routes in Southern Utah, each one an adventure worth every breathtaking second.
1. Hole-in-the-Rock Road: A Journey Through Time
This legendary route south of Escalante isn’t just one of the area’s most famous drives; it’s a rugged playground for off-road explorers. Stretching over 60 miles into the heart of the Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument, Hole-in-the-Rock Road leads past otherworldly rock formations, slot canyon trailheads, and wide-open desert vistas.
Along the way, you can detour to iconic sites like Peekaboo Slot Canyon and Spooky Gulch, both accessible by short hikes.
The road itself offers a mix of graded gravel, rocky patches, and sandy stretches—ideal for ATV and side-by-side adventures. As you travel deeper, the terrain grows rougher and the sense of isolation greater, making it an unforgettable ride into Utah’s wild backcountry.
2. Hell’s Backbone for ATV and Side-By-Side Adventures
If you’re looking for both challenge and beauty, Hell’s Backbone Road delivers. Originally built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, this winding mountain road connects Escalante to Boulder and climbs to over 9,000 feet. The trail passes pine forests, alpine meadows, and deep canyons, culminating in a thrilling crossing of the narrow Hell’s Backbone Bridge, a 1,500-foot drop on either side.
It’s less about speed and more about the adventure of navigating changing elevations and breathtaking scenery. A sturdy side-by-side from Epic Jeep Rentals will handle the steep grades and rugged terrain with ease, letting you focus on the awe-inspiring views around every turn.
3. Devil’s Garden: Red Rocks and Easy Riding
Not every off-road adventure needs to be extreme. Devil’s Garden, located about 12 miles down Hole-in-the-Rock Road, offers gentle, family-friendly trails surrounded by whimsical sandstone formations.
Hoodoos, arches, and spires dot the landscape, making it a fun stop for travelers who want to combine exploration with short hikes and picnic spots. It’s a great introduction to the terrain and a perfect option for those new to off-roading.
Ride with the Experts: Epic Jeep Rentals
When it comes to exploring safely and confidently, Epic Jeep Rentals in Escalante has you covered. Their fleet of high-performance Jeep Wranglers is perfect for navigating the region’s diverse terrain.
The knowledgeable staff can recommend the best routes based on your experience level and time, ensuring your off-road journey is as exciting as it is safe. You can check out their offerings and book your adventure at Epic Jeep Rentals.
Plan Your Stay
Southern Utah’s trails are a dream come true for those who love adventure, solitude, and jaw-dropping landscapes. Every bend reveals a new view, every climb a new perspective, and every ride, a story worth telling.
After a day of exploring, there’s no better place to unwind than Escalante Yurts. Nestled amid nature with the perfect blend of comfort and rustic charm, it’s the ideal place to rest up for your next off-road journey.
For the ultimate Southern Utah adventure, pair your ride with a stay at Escalante Yurts and experience the desert like never before.
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