Off Road Trails in Southern Utah
Here are some of the best off-road trails in Washington County and the reasons why they are worth exploring:
Sand Hollow State Park: Sand Hollow offers a vast playground for off-roading with its extensive sand dunes and challenging rock crawling areas. It’s a favorite spot for sand enthusiasts and offers stunning red rock views. The park also features a reservoir where you can enjoy water-based activities like boating and swimming.
Gooseberry Mesa: Located near Hurricane, Gooseberry Mesa is a popular mountain biking destination that also offers excellent off-road trails. The rugged terrain and slickrock formations make it an exciting and technical trail for 4×4 vehicles. It provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, including Zion National Park and the Virgin River.
Warner Valley: This remote area in the southwestern part of the county offers a variety of off-road trails that take you through scenic desert landscapes and red rock formations. Warner Valley is known for its petroglyphs, ancient Native American rock art, which adds cultural significance to the off-roading experience.
Babylon Arch Trail: Situated near the town of Leeds, the Babylon Arch Trail is an off-road trail that leads to a stunning natural arch. The trail offers a mix of easy and moderate sections, with beautiful desert views along the way. The highlight is reaching Babylon Arch, where you can admire the impressive sandstone formation.
Three Peaks Recreation Area: Located west of Cedar City, Three Peaks Recreation Area features a network of trails suitable for off-roading. The area offers a diverse landscape of sand dunes, rocky hills, and desert vistas. It’s a great place for those looking for a variety of terrains and off-roading challenges.
Toquerville Falls: Although not strictly in Washington County (it’s just across the border in Iron County), Toquerville Falls is worth mentioning due to its proximity and popularity among off-roaders. The trail to the falls is a rugged and scenic adventure, with creek crossings and challenging terrain. The reward is reaching the picturesque Toquerville Falls, a waterfall nestled in a red rock canyon.
These trails in Washington County offer different types of off-road experiences, from sand dunes to rocky terrains, providing a variety of challenges and stunning natural beauty. It’s essential to adhere to local regulations, practice responsible off-roading, and respect the environment while enjoying these trails.