Thrilling Adventures in Utah: Hiking, Biking, and UTVing
During our recent trip to Utah, I experienced some exhilarating adventures! From hiking and biking to UTVing, Utah is the ultimate destination to get your adrenaline pumping while soaking in stunning landscapes. Here’s a glimpse of what thrill-seekers can do on their next trip!
1. 4x4 Adventure in Hells Revenge, Moab
Hell's Revenge is a renowned off-roading trail in Moab, Utah, famous for its challenging terrain and daunting obstacles. To give you a sense of the excitement, some spots along the trail have earned names like "Seatbelt Check," "Haircut," and "Chiropractor"!
Situated between the Colorado River and the town of Moab, this trail requires a capable vehicle and expert navigation. The best way to experience Hell's Revenge is by taking a guided tour. Options range from scenic Jeep tours to extreme rock-crawling adventures.
We booked our Hell's Revenge tour with Xtreme 4x4 Tours. On this tour, you drive a 4x4 UTV along the Hell’s Revenge Trail, leading up to a breathtaking overlook of the Colorado River near Moab. It follows a "copycat" format, where you simply follow the vehicle ahead of you—though it's far from simple! You'll find yourself climbing rocky cliffs and navigating steep descents. The tour includes breaks for driver swaps, ensuring everyone in your group gets a taste of the thrill.
As a passenger at first, I was astounded by the initial segment of the Hell's Revenge trail, known as the "Devil's Backbone." This rock ridge features steep inclines on either side and sets the tone for the adventure right from the start. You're immediately thrown into the deep end with no time to get acquainted. Be sure to hold on tight as your 4x4 jostles along the rocky terrain.
So, if you’re looking for an adventure that combines heart-pounding excitement with awe-inspiring views, Utah's Hell's Revenge trail is a must-visit. Don’t forget to book a guided tour to make the most of this unforgettable experience!
2. Mountain Biking, Dead Horse State Park
Located just 30 miles from Moab, Dead Horse Point State Park features a breathtaking overlook of the Colorado River and Canyonlands National Park. The park features a network of bike trails that weave through juniper and pinyon trees, traverse slick rock and varied terrain, and offer spectacular views into the canyons below.
When I initially signed up for eBiking at Dead Horse Point State Park, I imagined a nice, leisurely paved path to rest my weary bones from hiking. Boy, was I wrong. This turned out to be e-Mountain Biking! Although it was a new experience for me, it became one of the most fun and memorable activities of our Utah trip. In fact, it sparked a newfound love for mountain biking—though I now have my heart set on an eBike for that extra boost!
With trail difficulties ranging from moderate to intermediate, these paths are perfect for beginners and expert riders alike. The main trailhead is conveniently located in the visitor center parking lot, where you can also rent bikes through Bighorn Mountain Biking. While many riders use regular mountain bikes, I recommend opting for an eBike (though it's pricier). It adds an extra layer of excitement to the experience and makes the adventure a bit less tiring.
3. Hike Angels Landing, Zion National Park
The highlight of our Utah adventure was undoubtedly the Angels Landing hike. This trail requires a permit, which you can apply for through a lottery months in advance or even the day before. We were fortunate enough to secure a permit the day before, so it's worth giving it a shot!
Why the emphasis on permits? This trail is carefully managed to prevent overcrowding due to its challenging sections that involve rock scrambling and climbing. Fortunately, fixed chains along the rocky cliffs help navigate these thrilling segments. However, if heights make you uneasy, this may not be the trail for you.
Anyone can hike up to Scout's Lookout, but the most exhilarating part of the journey—the Angels Landing section—requires a permit, which a ranger will check. And let me tell you, the ascent to Scout's Lookout isn't easy either. You'll need to tackle a series of 21 switchbacks known as Walter's Wiggles. But the effort is worth it for the breathtaking views and the adrenaline rush!
Length: 5.4 miles round-trip, from the trailhead to the summit and back
Time: 4-5 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Would you try one of these activities?
Thanks for reading - The Maine Chick
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