Welcome back to an all-new post featuring the top trails and OHV parks across America! This time, we are back featuring 7 fan-favorite trails across Utah.
As you may know, one of the premier off-road destinations in Utah is Moab. If you haven’t had a chance to check out our Moab feature, definitely take a look!
In this guide, we hope to feature trails outside Moab for those looking to explore more of Utah’s offerings. So, if you’re planning your next trip around the state, check out these seven trails below.
Note: The trails listed below are in no particular order.
Table Of Contents
1. Toquerville Falls
Submission By: Joi (@peterpanda4r)
Tell Us About Your Favorite Spot
This 11.8-mile trail is open year-round and offers impressive views on the drive-up. My favorite part of the trail is the waterfall. The river crossing can be a bit muddy depending on the season, but it’s always worth the adventure. This trail also offers disbursed camping, so you don’t have to rush to and from the area.
What Difficulty Would You Rate It?
I’d rate this trail a 6/10. Having a high-clearance 4X4 vehicle makes the drive easier and more enjoyable. The trail is a bit rocky for the first 3 or so miles, but then the terrain levels out with very few technical spots. It is also plenty wide for passing in both directions, which allows you multiple options for the best line.
This trail can be as hard or as easy as you make it.
2. Yuba Lake
Submission By: Edgar (@campingvnzuela4wd)
Tell Us About Your Favorite Spot
This area is great to spend by the water on a long, hot, summer day. Or, if you’re looking to set up camp for a weekend. You’ll find many people around here doing all sorts of hobbies from jet skiing to riding ATVs. It’s a great spot to go out with friends!
What Difficulty Would You Rate It?
I would rate this spot a 5/10. In some areas, it can be a bit tricky especially since you’re driving on sand but if you pick the right line, you won’t have any issues. But bring some recovery gear just in case!
3. Little Sahara Recreation Area
Submission By: Caleb (@landcruising_4r)
Tell Us About Your Favorite Spot
Little Sahara is one of the only places you can go in northern Utah to find dunes. Rather than following a single trail for hours in the mountains, at the dunes, it is more of a “choose your own adventure”.
This area is truly one of my favorite places to get out and explore and it never fails to put a smile on my face. Sand is soft and forgiving, so it feels like you’re on a rollercoaster but you’re driving!
What Difficulty Would You Rate It?
Rating difficulty is tricky. You can stay down in the flatlands where it’s more like a 2/10. Or, You can venture off into the middle of the dune system where they’re much taller and things can get hairy. I’d rate that at more like a 5-6 in difficulty.
You really need the right gear. Air down your tires, and bring a compressor, a friend, and recovery gear. Things can go wrong quickly if you aren’t paying attention! I’ve seen cracked radiators and blown transmissions in the dunes. The risk is worth the reward, but be smart!
4. Little Moab
Submission By: Ace (@acelee_801)
Tell Us About Your Favorite Spot
I like this area because it is lots of fun for a day trip. If you’ve never been before, you’ll find tons of great slick rock lines similar to Moab, but conveniently located in the heart of Utah County. The trails aren’t nearly as hard as some of the trails in Moab but they are just technical enough that you’ll have fun.
There are also plenty of mountain trails nearby to explore if you are looking to do some camping after spending the day over here.
What Difficulty Would You Rate It?
Like any rock crawling trail, the difficulty will vary. With the easiest line, you could be looking at a 2/10, however, there are much harder lines that can easily be a 10. Overall, it’s a great area for any skill level.
5. Tintic Railroad Tunnel (Alberta Slant Road)
Submission By: Hudson (@blade_runner97)
Tell Us About Your Favorite Spot
This area has many cool places to visit. You’ll find lots of easy-going trails that also have smaller side paths. My favorite side trail is to the abandoned railway tunnel. Not only is it a fun drive, but you can drive your rig through! Plus, it’s big enough that cars can easily go in and out.
What Difficulty Would You Rate It?
For this spot, I would rate it a 3/10 in difficulty. It’s an easy trail getting there but the side trails get a little more intense. You’ll encounter uneven terrain and big bumps leading to the entrance of the tunnel and your vehicle may need a lift.
During the colder seasons, it can also get slick and muddy, which may increase the difficulty more if you don’t have the proper setup.
6. Millville
Submission By: Broq (@nightfury.t4r)
Tell Us About Your Favorite Spot
The Millville area is very beautiful and scenic. As a bonus, it isn’t too populated, so sometimes you’ll get the trail all to yourself!
In terms of what to expect, be prepared to get some pinstripes. The trail is pretty tight and tends to be overgrown with trees and brush
What Difficulty Would You Rate It?
I would rate this trail a 3/10. It isn’t that difficult, but the experience and views are what make it great! You will need 4WD and high clearance on some portions of the trail, so just be prepared for that.
7. San Rafael Swell
Submission By: Alex (@t4rinsilver)
Tell Us About Your Favorite Spot
The San Rafael Swell area is often overlooked by those who visit Moab. However, it offers many different trails and views throughout. There are also many great places to camp, and it is often less crowded. It is a large area located northwest of Moab along I-70.
My latest trip was through Black Dragon Canyon, which follows the bottom of the canyon and features places to stop and view pictographs on the canyon walls. If you choose to explore the area, please tread lightly! Respect the existing pictographs and do not vandalize or leave marks on these sites or the sandstone as they will last forever.
What Difficulty Would You Rate It?
The difficulty of this area can vary depending on what trails you are exploring, from maintained dirt roads to more difficult obstacles. Be sure to research the trails you intend to explore and watch the weather, which will affect the difficulty. I would rate Black Dragon Wash as a 2/10 – 3/10; it is fairly easy but not a maintained dirt road.
8. Elephant Hill Road
Submission By: Steven (@ven5ttt)
Tell Us About Your Favorite Spot
Located an hour from Moab, Utah, within the Canyonlands National Park, this trail offers a blend of technical challenges and stunning scenery.
It features a narrow 85″ obstacle that is a must-do if you decide to explore. If you’re looking for a longer trip, this area also offers camping options. Reservations are required for trail access and camping, with only 50 vehicles permitted daily, ensuring a unique and exclusive experience amidst Utah’s rugged beauty.
What Difficulty Would You Rate It?
The Ranger Station rated this trail a 6/10 and I would have to agree with this. You have to have some off-road experience and at least rear lockers with 33” tires to navigate some of this trail. Overall, it’s a super fun trail to explore and do some wheeling!
Final Thoughts
And that wraps up this trail feature! Let us know below which trails you would add to this guide!
Utah has so many amazing places and is truly an off-roader’s playground. The best part is there are options for everyone from super easy forest roads to crawling up the red rocks that Utah is so famous for.
