Guided Moab UTV Tours: What to Expect, Top Trails, and Tips for First-Timers

How to Find Moab UTV Tours

Moab is one of the best places in the country to go off-road. If you’re looking for a Moab UTV tour, there are several easy ways to find the right one for your group.

Online Moab Tour Booking Platforms

Websites like GetYourGuide and Viator list Moab UTV tours, often with reviews, photos and price comparisons. These are great if you’re comparing multiple tour operators or planning ahead of time.

Local Moab Tour Companies

Many visitors prefer to book directly with a Moab UTV tour company, especially if you’re looking for a customized or small group experience. Booking locally also means you can ask questions, get up to date trail info and talk to someone who really knows the terrain.

What to Look For in Guided Moab Tours:

• Licensed and experienced guides
• “You drive” or “ride-along” options
• High quality, safe UTVs
• Tour times that fit your schedule (2.5 to 4 hours is typical)
• Good reviews and clear safety policies

Whether you book through a website or call a tour company directly, make sure the guided UTV tour includes everything you need for a safe and fun ride through Moab’s backcountry.

What to Expect on a Moab UTV Tour

Guided Moab UTV tours are more than just a ride, it’s a full off-road experience through some of the most rugged and scenic terrain in the Southwest. Whether you’re driving the UTV yourself or riding along with a guide, here’s what you can expect.

Expert Guidance and Instruction

Every tour starts with a safety briefing and a walk-through of the vehicle. Your guide will show you how to operate your side-by-side UTV, including how to use four-wheel drive, control your speed and handle steep terrain. If you’re on a “You Drive” UTV tour, you’ll be following your guide while getting tips along the way.For those who want to sit back and enjoy the ride, “Ride-Along” tours are available, your guide does the driving while you take in the views.

High-Performance UTVs Built for Moab Trails

Most tour companies use custom-built UTVs designed to handle Moab’s slickrock, sand and technical climbs. These vehicles are powerful, safe and fun to drive, often equipped with off-road tires, roll cages and communication systems so you can hear your guide clearly during the ride.

Stunning Views and Unique Terrain

From red rock domes to sandstone fins and cliffside overlooks, UTV tours in Moab take you through a mix of landscapes you can’t see from the road. Expect to explore fossilized sand dunes, wide open desert trails and rocky climbs with views of the La Sal Mountains and Colorado River.

Popular trails like Hell’s Revenge, Fins & Things and Poison Spider each offer something different, some tours even include stops at natural arches or dinosaur tracks.

Moab Tour Lengths and Start Times

Most guided Moab UTV tours last 2.5 to 4 hours, with options for morning, afternoon or sunset rides. The 3.5 hour and 4 hour options typically cover more trail miles and let you see a wider range of terrain.

What’s Included

While every tour is different, most include:

• DOT approved helmets and goggles
• Bottled water and light snacks
• On-trail support and instruction
• Fully insured vehicles and safety training

Be sure to wear closed-toe shoes and bring sun protection. And don’t forget your camera, the views are unbeatable.

Taking a guided UTV tour in Moab gives you the thrill of off-roading with the confidence of expert guidance. Whether you’re new to UTVs or an experienced driver, there’s a tour that fits your skill level and interests.

Top Trails on Guided Moab UTV Tours

Moab is home to some of the most iconic off-road trails in the United States and guided UTV tours give you front-row access to the action. Each trail offers its own mix of scenery, terrain and excitement. Whether you’re looking for technical challenges or sweeping desert views, these are the top trails you’ll likely experience on a Moab guided UTV tour.

Hell’s Revenge

Hell’s Revenge is Moab’s most famous off-road trail and for good reason. This slickrock route cuts through the Sand Flats Recreation Area, taking you across fossilized sand dunes, steep ledges and narrow ridges. The trail offers heart-pounding climbs and descents but also incredible views of the La Sal Mountains and Colorado River.

Many tour companies offer Hell’s Revenge UTV tours, including 2.5 hour and 3.5 hour options. It’s a must-do for adrenaline junkies and one of the best ways to experience Moab’s red rock terrain up close.

Fins & Things

This trail is often combined with Hell’s Revenge and is perfect for building confidence on the slickrock. The name comes from the sandstone “fins” that roll across the landscape. Fins & Things offers a mix of mild technical sections and sweeping desert views, making it a great choice for beginners or anyone new to off-roading.

If you’re doing a longer guided tour you might start with Fins & Things before heading into the more intense sections of Hell’s Revenge.

Poison Spider

Poison Spider is a legendary trail that blends scenic overlooks with technical rock crawling. This route features rocky ledges, sand hills and tight turns that require focus and precision. It’s one of the more challenging Moab UTV tours but the views from the top, overlooking the Moab Valley and the Colorado River, are worth every obstacle.

Because of its difficulty Poison Spider is usually offered as a standalone 4 hour “You Drive” tour for those looking to test their skills.

Legends of Moab Trail

For a more scenic and historical adventure the Legends of Moab tour takes you across multiple sites in a single trip. Highlights include Uranium Arch, Tusher Tunnel, Monitor & Merrimac Buttes and ancient dinosaur tracks. This tour is perfect for those who want less technical driving but still want to experience the backcountry beauty and hidden gems of the region.

It’s a great balance of education, scenery and mild off-roading, perfect for families or groups with mixed experience levels.

Whether you’re looking for adrenaline or photo opportunities these guided UTV trails in Moab have something for every kind of adventurer. Tour routes vary by company so be sure to check which trails are included before booking.

Which Moab UTV Tour is Right for You

Not all Moab UTV tours are created equal. Some are short and fast paced, others are longer and more scenic. The right tour for you depends on how much time you have, your comfort level with off-roading and whether you want to drive or ride along.

Here’s how to choose the right guided UTV experience for your group.

Tour Length: 2.5 Hours vs. 3.5 Hours vs. 4 Hours

If you’re short on time or new to off-roading, a 2.5 hour tour on Hell’s Revenge is a great introduction. You’ll hit the highlights of the trail and get a feel for what Moab terrain is all about.

For a deeper experience the 3.5 hour Hell’s Revenge + Fins & Things combo tour is one of the most popular options. You’ll get more trail miles and build confidence before tackling more technical sections. Many riders say they wish they had more time so if your schedule allows this extended option is worth it.

The 4 hour tours like Poison Spider or Legends of Moab are perfect if you want a mix of adventure and exploration. These longer tours cover more ground and include scenic stops you won’t find on shorter rides.

Drive or Ride

Most Moab tour companies offer both “You Drive” and “Ride-Along” options.

• You Drive: You (or someone in your group) gets behind the wheel and follows a guide vehicle. You’ll get driving tips along the way and it’s a great way to get hands-on experience navigating real off-road terrain.
• Ride-Along: A professional guide drives while you relax and enjoy the ride. This is perfect if you want to focus on the views or aren’t comfortable driving.

Both options use high quality UTVs and include the same trails, you just choose your level of involvement.

Terrain & Skill Level

Different trails have different levels of difficulty. For example:

• Fins & Things: Mild to moderate, great for beginners
• Hell’s Revenge: moderate to advanced, thrilling slickrock climbs
• Poison Spider: advanced, includes technical rock obstacles
• Legends of Moab: mild terrain with historic and scenic highlights

If you’re not sure what fits your group, talk to the tour company. Most guided UTV tours are beginner friendly and your guide will adjust the route to fit your comfort level.With the right tour, you’ll experience the best of Moab, whether that’s heart-pounding climbs, desert overlooks or quiet moments among ancient rock formations.

What You Need to Ride Legally and Safely in Moab

Before you head out on any one of the many guided Moab UTV tours available, make sure you understand the rules and safety requirements for off-road riding in Utah. These regulations are in place to protect both riders and the environment while keeping public trails open for everyone.

Utah OHV Education Course

Utah law requires all off-highway vehicle (OHV) operators (including UTVs) to complete a short online safety course before riding on public land.

You can take the course online through the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation website. The certificate is free and only needs to be completed once.

Helmets and Age Requirements

• Helmets required for all UTV drivers and passengers under 18.
• Under 18 must be under direct adult supervision unless they have a valid driver’s license.
• To legally drive a UTV you must be able to safely reach and operate all vehicle controls.

Guided Moab tour companies provide helmets and safety gear as part of the experience.

UTV Registration and Permits

If you’re joining a guided Moab UTV tour, registration and permits are usually taken care of by the tour company. If you’re bringing your own vehicle or renting separately here’s what you need to know:

• Non-residents operating a non-street-legal UTV in Utah must purchase a Non-Resident OHV Permit online before riding.
• If your UTV is street-legal and has a license plate from your home state that meets Utah’s requirements, a permit may not be needed.

Waivers and Liability Forms

Tour companies will require each participant to sign a waiver before the ride. Make sure to complete this ahead of time or arrive early to fill it out.

Following these rules not only keeps you safe, it helps keep Moab’s off-road trails open and fun for everyone.

How to Ride Responsibly on Moab’s UTV Trails

Moab’s beauty and world-class off-road trails attract thousands of UTV riders each year. But with that popularity comes a responsibility to protect the land, wildlife and the community. Whether you’re on a guided UTV tour or riding on your own, always follow responsible recreation practices.

Stay on Designated Trails

Always stay on designated roads and trails. Off-trail travel is illegal and damages the desert soil and vegetation. In areas like White Wash Sand Dunes, riding is only allowed in open play zones or marked trails. If unsure, look for signs or ask your guide.

Remember: leaving the trail doesn’t just harm the environment, it also puts access to these areas at risk for future riders.

Respect Wildlife and Natural Features

Wildlife like bighorn sheep live in the backcountry near Moab. Give them space and don’t stress or chase them. Be careful around desert plants like cottonwood trees near White Wash and avoid compacting soil around their roots.

If you see dinosaur tracks, ancient rock formations or cultural sites, look, don’t touch. These are protected and irreplaceable.

Reduce Noise and Light Pollution

Moab has local ordinances to limit UTV noise, especially at night. If you’re riding a street-legal UTV into or out of town:

• Keep speeds below 15 mph in Moab city limits.
• Don’t cut through residential areas.
• Don’t ride at night unless necessary.

These small steps go a long way in keeping peace and Moab welcoming to both riders and residents.

Pack In, Pack Out

Whatever you bring with you, snacks, gear, drinks, make sure to pack it out. Trash, leftover food and waste can damage the environment and spoil the experience for others. Some remote areas have no facilities, so bring waste bags or portable toilets if needed.

If you’re camping near a trailhead, use existing spots and don’t damage vegetation. And always close gates behind you, unless you found them open.By following these simple rules of responsible riding, you help keep Moab’s trails, scenery and community open for future riders. On a guided UTV tour, your guide will help you follow these practices but it’s up to every rider to do their part.

Moab UTV Tour Tips: What to Know Before You Hit the Trail

A little prep goes a long way in making your Moab UTV tour more fun and stress free. Whether it’s your first time in a side-by-side or you’re back for another off-road adventure, here’s what you need to know.

Book Early, Especially in Spring and Early Summer

Moab’s busy season is March to June and again in the fall. During these months UTV tours often sell out days or even weeks in advance. If you’re planning your trip during these peak times, book your guided UTV tour ahead of time to secure your preferred date and time.

Choose the Right Time of Day

Morning and sunset UTV tours in Moab are the most popular and for good reason. Early rides are cooler and less crowded, sunset tours offer stunning views of the red rocks glowing in the evening light.

Midday tours are great in cooler months but in summer they can get hot especially on exposed slickrock.

What to Wear and Bring

You’ll still be exposed to the elements even though you’ll be in a UTV. Dress in layers and wear clothes that can get dusty or dirty. Here’s a quick list:

• Closed-toe shoes (required)
• Lightweight long sleeves and pants (for sun and scratch protection)
• Sunglasses or goggles (goggles are often provided)
• Sunscreen and lip balm
• Phone or camera (but secure it during the ride)

As mentioned before, Guided Moab tour companies usually provide helmets, safety gear, bottled water and light snacks.

Know the Trail Length and Difficulty

Before you book, check out the trail options and tour durations. If you’re unsure which tour is right for you, talk to the tour company. They’ll help you find the right fit based on:

• How long you want to be out (2.5, 3.5 or 4 hours)
• Whether you want scenic stops or technical challenges
• Your group’s age range and experience level

Sign Your Waiver and OHV Course

Again, most guided tour companies require:* A waiver for each rider

• Utah’s OHV Education Course (free and quick online)

Do these ahead of time to save time at check-in and be ready to ride.

A little prep goes a long way when riding in Moab. With the right gear, timing and mindset your UTV tour will be the highlight of your trip.

Why a Guided UTV Tour is the Best Way to Explore Moab

There’s no better way to experience Moab’s rugged landscape than behind the wheel (or in the passenger seat) of a guided UTV tour. With access to iconic trails, expert instruction and top of the line vehicles these tours offer a safe and fun way to see the area’s natural beauty.

See Legendary Trails with Confidence

From the thrilling climbs of Hell’s Revenge to the scenic overlooks of Legends of Moab, guided tours get you on trails that most visitors never see. Whether you drive yourself or ride along with a pro you’ll experience the best of Moab’s backcountry without getting lost or stuck.

Learn as You Ride

Guides don’t just lead the way they share the stories behind the landscape. You’ll learn about Moab’s geology, history and wildlife turning your ride into a learning experience as well as an adventure. If you’re new to off-roading your guide will help you feel comfortable handling the UTV on challenging terrain.

Stress Free, All Inclusive

Most tours include everything you need: safety gear, water, instruction and insured vehicles. No need to bring your own equipment or figure out the trail system on your own. Just show up, suit up and hit the trail.

For All Skill Levels

Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a family with kids or just looking to see the desert from a different angle there’s a Moab UTV tour for you. Options range from mild and scenic to technical and challenging, many with flexible tour times to fit your schedule.

A guided UTV tour is one of the most fun and memorable ways to see Moab, Utah. With the right guide, the right trail and the right attitude it’s an experience you won’t forget.

FAQs: Moab UTV Tours

Q1: What is a Moab UTV Tour?

A Moab UTV tour is an off-road adventure led by a local expert who shows you the best trails. You can drive your own UTV while following the guide or ride along as a passenger.

Q2: Do I need experience to go on a Moab UTV tour?

No experience necessary. Most Moab UTV tours are beginner friendly. Your guide will teach you how to operate the vehicle and give you tips along the way.

Q3: Are UTVs allowed in Arches or Canyonlands National Parks?

No, UTVs are not allowed inside Arches or Canyonlands National Parks. But guided tours take you through public lands and famous off-road trails just outside the parks like Hell’s Revenge and Fins & Things.

Q4: What should I wear on a UTV tour in Moab?

Closed-toe shoes, sunglasses or goggles and clothes that can get dusty. Layers are recommended for morning or sunset tours. Helmets and safety gear are usually provided by the tour company.

Q5: How long are most guided UTV tours in Moab?

Most tours are 2.5 to 4 hours long depending on the trail and experience you choose. Longer tours cover more ground and have extra scenic stops.

Q6: What’s the difference between “You Drive” and “Ride-Along”?

In a “You Drive” tour you drive the UTV while following a guide. In a “Ride-Along” your guide drives while you relax and enjoy the views. Both options are available on most Moab UTV tours.

Q7: Do I need a permit or license to drive a UTV in Utah?

Yes. Utah requires all UTV drivers to complete a short OHV education course online. Drivers must also meet age and licensing requirements. Helmets are required for riders under 18.

Ready to ride Moab?

Whether you want to tackle Hell’s Revenge, find dinosaur tracks or enjoy a sunset ride, a guided UTV tour is one of the best ways to see the Moab backcountry.

Stop by AreaBFE in downtown Moab or check out our current tour options online.