Why Utah Remains an Ideal Off-Road Destination
When you’re looking for premier off-road trail destinations, there’s a reason so many ATV and UTV enthusiasts are drawn to Utah. From vast, sweeping dunes to narrow, rocky trails, there is something for every rider among the countless trails around the state.
When you’re looking for a place to ride, the hardest part is narrowing down where to go. Utah is home to so many off-roading hotspots that it is one of the most popular pastimes and tourist attractions in the state.
Need help narrowing your options? That’s why we’re here. From winding forest paths to technical trails, we’ve compiled a list of the best off-roading trails in Utah. No matter your skill level or off-road vehicle, you’re sure to find something you like.
Note: pricing is accurate as of January 13, 2026.
The Paiute ATV Trail System has something for everyone—awesome environments, a huge variety of trail types and difficulty levels, community riding events, and plenty of space to explore. Whether you’re off-roading with your crew or taking on a solo adventure, checking out the Paiute ATV Trail System is a must when you’re in Utah. And if you’re looking for a spot to fish or camp, there are some great options within the Paiute Trails System.
If you’re in the mood for a scenic ATV or UTV ride through nature’s beauty, there’s no better place than Arapeen OHV Trail in central Utah. With breathtaking mountain lakes, incredible vistas, and the lush expanse of woodlands, you don’t want to miss these gorgeous views. As long as you stop before snapping some photos, you’re sure to have a memorable and enjoyable time riding through the wonders of nature while you ride the Arapeen trails.
If you’re looking to spray some sand and enjoy dramatic desert views, Sand Hollow State Park is the stop for you. With epic dunes and technical sandy trails, this is a great spot for more experienced riders. If you’re heading to Sand Hollow, don’t forget to outfit your rig with tires that can handle the sand and some whip lights to make sure your buddies can see you as you crest the next dune.
Little Sahara is one of the best places you can go for sand riding. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly, gentle introduction to dunes or want to test your mettle on the 700-foot Sand Mountain, there is a ride for everyone at Little Sahara. The entry fee also includes access to the campgrounds, so make sure you have the right lights for nighttime riding (and tires that will keep you moving in the dunes) before you go.
For those looking to get far away from it all and experience the excitement and beauty of unfettered adventure, pack up your rig and head to San Rafael Swell. With stunning rock formations, breathtaking views, and a huge range to explore, this is one of Utah’s most amazing places for experienced ATV and UTV riders to challenge themselves on desert trails and rocky terrain. And while it might be fun to get lost for a little while, it never hurts to make sure you can always get home, so bring along your favorite GPS unit.
Looking for a challenging ride? Fins and Things Trail is what you’re looking for. Intended for experienced and advanced riders, this location has unique slickrock terrain and plenty of steep climbs that will put your skill and your rig to the test. Especially suited to side-by-sides, if you want to take on the toughest parts of Fins and Things, make sure your machine has upgraded suspension and tires—a set of portal lifts wouldn’t hurt either.
If you live in Salt Lake City, or are in town visiting, Fivemile Pass Recreation Area is a quick trip just outside the city that is well worth the hour drive. Camping is permitted in the park for no fee, so this is a perfect weekend getaway for riders of all experience levels. Next time you’re looking for a great ride without too much travel, pack up your gear and your rig and head to Fivemile Pass to rip up some desert hills and trails, or let the throttle open on old mining roads.
For alpine beauty and gorgeous year-round riding, head to Mill Canyon Trail. This unique and beautiful trail system is another spot that is pretty close to Salt Lake City, making day trips or weekend getaways a breeze. There are a number of loops within the system, ranging from 15 miles to 50, giving riders of all experience levels the opportunity to pick the right difficulty of ride.
Knolls is a hidden gem of Utah’s off-roading scene, featuring a huge expanse of trails, flat lands, and dunes that are perfect for fast-paced, open riding. Please be advised, however, that Knolls OHV Area borders a bombing range, so strict adherence to the boundaries and area rules is required.
Roads? Trails? Who needs ‘em? Let your adventurous side out at White Wash Sand Dunes, with all the freedom to explore that you could dream of. There are no designed trails or paths here—you can ride however you want as long as your rig and your skills can keep up. (There are designated trails outside the open area, for those who like a little more structure to their rides). Plus, White Wash has easy access from Moab, making it a great choice for quick rides with your crew or family.
This one is just for the advanced riders, with steep ledges, tricky slickrock, and intense drop-offs. If you’re taking this one on, you’ll probably want to add some portal lifts and upgraded axles to your machine, along with a winch to help you or your buddies get out of sticky situations.
The challenge is worth the reward at Poison Spider. These are extreme, technical rock crawling climbs that require top-quality suspension kits and all the protection your side-by-side can get. But the striking red rock landscape and incredible desert views are worth every bit of the climb.
When you’re getting ready for an adventurous ride to any of the great off-roading sites on this list, make sure your ATV or UTV has the durable, top-quality parts it needs to withstand Utah’s varied terrain. If you need to upgrade your rig before your next ride, head over to SuperATV to explore our extensive inventory of ATV and UTV parts and accessories.
22 Comments
You left out the premier riding destination in Utah. The Piute Trail system in central Utah consists of everything from dirt roads to 50 inch technical trails for “experts”. The system consists of up to 3,000 miles of trails.
Hey Dale, thanks for letting us know about this one! Sounds like an awesome experience.
Duck Creek utah was there last week
Thanks, Jeff!
Hi Jeff, We are going to be in Duck Creek for a week in June with our full size SXS, can you recommend a few must do trails please?
I have to agree with Dale, how can you NOT mention the “Piute Trail”?
That’s what you guys are here for :) To let us know what one’s we’re missing. Unfortunately, we don’t have the pleasure of living in all of these areas, so the feedback is great. Thanks for the heads up!
The Barracks trail is the best. Off of Coral Pink Sand Dunes.
Thanks for sharing, Brandon!
We would love to spend our vacation utv’ing in and around Moab
Wondering if it’s legal and how hard it is to find hotel/motel rooms
it’s become a zoo, with too many people and high prices. can’t run machines on the streets anymore. I d’t plan on going backon
Can anyone recommend a place to RV near Zion national Park. Was looking at Sand Hallow. Would like somewhere I can use my RZR while Im there in the area.
I was there a few weeks back. First time out. It was beyond incredible. The Sand Mountain on top is a playground! The place has some challenging stuff so be prepared! I’ll be coming back!
You left out the Swell? You have got to be kidding me?
Hey Dave, thanks for the feedback. The good thing is we’re never out of options with such a beautiful state!
The San Rafael Swell has an extensive network of UTV trails that are amazing with jaw-dropping views all around. Petroglyphs, arches, and so much more!
Do you recommend certain trails that have arches and petroglyphs? Or should i purchase a map?
Coming on vacation from Maine. We love riding and plan on renting ATV’s. Any opinion on whether the Moab or Zion area is better?
You left out my favorite place to ride in the State of Utah…I’m actually glad you did, it’s never crowded:). Agreed, Utah has so much to offer in diversity and experience for off road enthusiasts. I’ve lived here my entire life and have been an active off-roader for 35 years. I’m still finding new places that blow my mind!
Secret spots are the best spots!
Tyler: a slight correction to your Arapeen post where you say it’s limited to a max of 66″ width vehicles.
That is incorrect. Many of the trails are open to vehicles of any width. It is true that there are some trails limited to 66″ width, and others limited to 50″. I have a recent map of Arapeen (the official map) that I received in March 2023 and it shows many trails designated as “all vehicle widths” allowed. I hope this info helps!
Hi Rhon,
Thanks for pointing that out. I corrected it. This article is in need of an update for 2023! I’m putting it on the list for a refresh.