The large terrain of Utah has never been underestimated and holds countless hidden gems. With its spanning deserts and tall, majestic mountains, Utah has hide-a-way spots great for taking off-highway vehicles (OHV’s). Whether you are setting out for a bouncy ride, rocky ride, or you just want a serene view, Utah offers a variety of trailheads that will meet your expectations and more. This list brings you the most exciting and beautiful Top 10 UTV Riding Areas in Utah.
1. Arapeen OHV Trail
With over 350,000 acres to ride, the Arapeen OHV Trail System has gained a respected reputation. Located just two hours south of Salt Lake City on U.S. Highway 89 in Sanpete County, the Arapeen OHV Trail offers over 600 miles of trails to explore. With various types of terrain, you can enjoy the fresh air and beautiful mountain lakes during your scenic ride. The Arapeen OHV Trail has been featured on multiple outdoor television shows, so if you’re craving adventure this is the place to be!
2. Five Mile Pass OHV Area
This local hotspot is 14 miles west of Eagle Mountain, Utah and boasts year-round trails. The terrain is made of rocky trails that wind through the natural vegetation. The Bureau of Land Management is in the process of planning a developed campground with water resources and has already installed four new restrooms. Not only can you ride your ATV, but the trails are friendly enough for smaller motorized vehicles as well. With an abundance of flat land, there can be fun for the whole family.
3. Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
Located between Mount Carmel Junction and Kanab is the picturesque Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park. Known as the shifting sea of red sand, the whole family can participate in the fun. There is a park fee of $10 per vehicle for single-day use. Camping fees vary on how many sites and hookups you will need; be sure to check out their website for more information. The Coral Pink Sand Dunes are open seven days a week. Come prepared and don’t forget water!
4. Knolls OHV Area
If you are visiting the Bonneville Salt Flats, then you must stop by and ride the Knolls OHV Area. With over 36,000 acres, this area boasts hills, sand dunes, and various terrain trails. You must have a whip flag and newer sand tires are recommended. The entrance fee for this year-round area is $6 per vehicle or you can get an annual pass for $40. The Park asks that you respect and stay within the boundary lines as there is a military bombing range nearby. This is the place to ride if you want all terrains in one stop.
5. Little Sahara Sand Dunes
Just like the name suggests, this mini version of the Sahara Desert located in central Utah - 4 miles west of Jericho Junction and only 115 miles from Salt Lake City. The Little Sahara Sand Dunes offer 60,000 acres of exploring. If you want to camp out, there is an $18 fee per vehicle for one night. Whether you are looking for sand, hills, rocky terrain, or winding through bushes. The Little Sahara will keep you coming back for more.6. Mill Canyon OHV Trails
This 43-mile trail in Mill Canyon is full of serene beauty including small waterfalls and an abundance of wildlife. Located in Wasatch County, the Mill Canyon Trail is open from 5/1-11/1. The State Park fee for this ride is $7 per day up to 8 people or $75 for an annual State Park pass. There is an additional National Forest Recreation fee of $6 for a 3-day pass or an annual pass of $45. Research the trailheads before your adventure and make sure someone back home knows where you are.7. Pine Lake OHV Trail
If you are looking for a majestic trail, look no further. The Pine Lake OHV Trail is a 21-mile loop that is made of mostly dirt roads. The loop consists of Pine Lake, Powell Point Overlook, and Pole Canyon. You will be amazed by the scenic views during your ride that you will want to come enjoy this trail year-round. There are no entrance fees, but if you wish to camp, there is an $11 fee for both tent and RV. With calm terrain, this can be a great ride for the whole family.8. Paiute ATV Trail System
The Paiute Trail starts with a climb for several miles as you ascend the mountain. Once you reach the trailhead, you will have access to over 900 miles of trails and country. Breathe the fresh air of the thick forests and enjoy the serenity of nature. Richfield is the most popular town to enter in from. Plan accordingly and you will have endless adventures with this large trail system.9. American Fork Canyon
Located in American Fork Canyon, Utah this area offers endless trails of different terrain and levels of intensity. Most of the trails are labeled moderate and accommodate ATV’s, side-by-sides, and dirt bikes. Some of the places the trails will lead you are: Snake Creek Canyon, Mineral Basin, Soldier Hollow, and Silver Lake. The park asks that you caution steep drop-offs during your ride, other than that - enjoy yourself!10. Moab
Moab is one of the most recognized places to visit in Utah. Vastly due to its red rock excursions and serene beauty. Besides rock climbing, river rafting, and mountain biking, Moab offers incredible adventures for OHV’s. There are a handful of different trails to ride on, but most riders stick to the top 4: Fins & Things, Poison Spider Mesa, Steel Bender, and Hell’s Revenge. Each one offers its own unique experience and intensity level. One thing is for sure, you won’t be disappointed coming to Moab.These top 10 spots have provided you the information, now you must go out and experience these beautiful places for yourself. From the windy trails of Five-Mile Pass, to climbing different sand dunes, and to the majestic beauty of the Moab; Utah is sure to impress. Off-highway vehicles are fun and exciting but can be dangerous so be sure to wear helmets. The State of Utah also wants to remind riders to watch out for fellow riders and pedestrians during rides and to make sure you are well prepared for your ride. No matter the adventure you crave, you can find it in Utah.