Sand Flats Recreation Area
A 9,000-acre playground for off-roaders, bikers, and campers, featuring iconic trails and stunning red rock desert vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities.
Sand Flats Recreation Area
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 9,000-acre playground for off-roaders, bikers, and campers, featuring iconic trails and stunning red rock desert vistas.
"This is a must-hit spot in Moab if you are into off-road activities on two or four wheels."
🚗 Off-Road Vehicle Rentals
Rent a UTV or Jeep for an exhilarating experience on the trails. Book in advance!
💧 Stay Hydrated
The desert heat is intense, especially in summer. Carry plenty of water.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hells Revenge Trail
Sand Flats Recreation Area
An iconic, challenging 4x4 trail offering extreme thrills and breathtaking views of the Colorado River.
Fins and Things Trail
Sand Flats Recreation Area
A popular trail featuring sandstone fins and slickrock obstacles, perfect for Jeeps and UTVs.
+2
Slickrock Bike Trail
Sand Flats Recreation Area
World-renowned mountain biking trail known for its challenging climbs and descents on slickrock.
Pinyon Trail
Sand Flats Recreation Area
A family-friendly hiking loop with beautiful scenery and educational stops about desert ecology.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Off-Road Adventure Awaits
+3Camping & Scenic Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Off-Road Vehicle Rentals
Rent a UTV or Jeep for an exhilarating experience on the trails. Book in advance!
💧 Stay Hydrated
The desert heat is intense, especially in summer. Carry plenty of water.
⬆️ Respect the Trails
Stay on marked trails to protect the fragile desert environment.
🌅 Sunrise/Sunset Views
Catch stunning desert colors from viewpoints like Dead Horse Point nearby.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Off-Road Vehicle Rentals
Rent a UTV or Jeep for an exhilarating experience on the trails. Book in advance!
💧 Stay Hydrated
The desert heat is intense, especially in summer. Carry plenty of water.
⬆️ Respect the Trails
Stay on marked trails to protect the fragile desert environment.
🌅 Sunrise/Sunset Views
Catch stunning desert colors from viewpoints like Dead Horse Point nearby.
🏕️ Campsite Reservations
Book campsites early, especially for weekends and holidays. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Sand Flats Recreation Area is a paradise for off-road enthusiasts and campers, offering iconic trails and stunning desert landscapes. Visitors rave about the exhilarating rides on trails like Hells Revenge and Fins and Things, as well as the beautiful camping spots with incredible views. Some find the summer heat intense and recommend visiting during cooler months.
"Camping, trails and miles of beautiful country to explore. Close to everything. Large hill in and out is fun to ride bikes on too. You can ride to town if you have the legs to get back. Emtb everything in Moab. Don’t let kids who just started riding influence you otherwise. They’re scared of speed. The blm doesn’t follow the rules, you don’t have to."
matt fisher
"Dispersed Camping 16 miles north of MOAB. Across from the Airport. Road is rough, but cars to big RV’s go down it. Trails to hike and 4WD offroading. Stay on the trails. Take out what you take in please! Watch the Antelope, Hot Air Balloons and Sky Diving."
Chuck
"If you are into off-road activities, be it on two wheels or four, this is a must hit spot in Moab. Big name trails like Hells Revenge, Fins and Things, and the Slickrock Trail as well as plenty of lesser known trails to test your skills or just enjoy the ride."
Steven Dehlin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sand Flats Recreation Area is located just east of Moab, Utah. Take Highway 191 South and turn left onto Sand Flats Road. The drive is short and well-signed.
While some areas are accessible by regular cars, many of the popular off-road trails require high-clearance, 4WD vehicles. The main roads within the recreation area are generally passable for most vehicles.
There are no official shuttle services directly to Sand Flats Recreation Area. However, many rental companies in Moab offer transportation options or guided tours that include access to the area.
Potash Road runs along the Colorado River and offers scenic views, but it does not directly lead into Sand Flats Recreation Area. You would need to exit Potash Road and head towards Moab to access Sand Flats. +2
Dispersed camping spots are often found on rougher roads. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for accessing some of these areas, though cars can reach certain spots.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Sand Flats Recreation Area requires a day-use fee or a camping fee. Fees are typically collected at an entrance station or self-pay station.
Sand Flats Recreation Area is generally open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, specific facilities or ranger stations may have limited hours. It's always best to check the official BLM website for the most current information.
Day-use fees are typically around $5 per vehicle, and camping fees vary. Check the official BLM Sand Flats Recreation Area website for the most up-to-date pricing.
Some campsites within Sand Flats Recreation Area are first-come, first-served, while others may be reservable. It's highly recommended to check the BLM website or recreation.gov for reservation options, especially during peak season. +1
Discounts may be available for annual passes or specific group rates. Check with the BLM office or their website for any applicable discounts.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The most famous off-road trails include Hells Revenge, Fins and Things, and the Slickrock Trail. These offer varying levels of difficulty and stunning desert scenery.
The Slickrock Bike Trail is considered advanced and challenging, known for its steep climbs and technical sections. Beginners might find the Pinyon Trail or parts of the Gemini Bridges trail more manageable.
You might spot desert wildlife such as antelope, various birds, and small mammals. Keep an eye out for hot air balloons and skydivers as well, as they are common in the area.
Yes, the Pinyon Trail is a family-friendly hiking loop within Sand Flats. Other trails are often shared with off-road vehicles, so hikers should exercise caution.
Sand Flats offers a mix of designated campsites and dispersed camping areas. Many sites provide incredible views of the surrounding red rock landscape.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no restaurants or food services directly within Sand Flats Recreation Area. You'll need to bring your own food and supplies or head into Moab town.
Moab town, just a short drive away, offers a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and food trucks. Many visitors enjoy the food truck scene in Moab.
Campfire regulations can vary depending on fire restrictions. Always check the current fire danger levels and regulations with the BLM before planning a campfire.
Yes, there are several grocery stores in Moab that can supply you with food and camping essentials.
Popular spots include Josie Wyatt's for prime rib and various food trucks offering diverse cuisines.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire recreation area offers stunning red rock formations. Key spots include viewpoints along Hells Revenge and the unique sandstone fins.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting, casting a warm glow on the red rocks. Midday can be harsh due to direct sunlight.
Drone usage is subject to BLM regulations. It's essential to check the latest rules and restrictions regarding drone operation in recreation areas.
Capture the unique shapes of the sandstone fins, the expansive desert vistas, and the action shots of off-road vehicles on the trails.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant formations. A sturdy tripod is recommended for sunrise/sunset shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families with older children interested in off-roading, renting a UTV for a guided tour on less extreme trails can be an exciting adventure. +1 Ensure you bring plenty of water and snacks, as amenities are limited within the recreation area. Consider camping at one of the designated sites, which often offer more space and easier access.
+1 Many families enjoy the unique experience of camping in the desert and stargazing at night. 🚗 Off-Road Enthusiasts
It's crucial to be well-prepared. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, and you have the necessary recovery gear. Familiarize yourself with trail difficulty ratings and consider your skill level before attempting any trail.
🏕️ Campers & RVers
+1 While some sites can accommodate larger RVs, it's advisable to check site specifics and road conditions beforehand. Campers can enjoy easy access to hiking and off-roading trails directly from their campsite.
+1 The area is also fantastic for stargazing due to its remote location. Practice Leave No Trace principles to keep the camping areas pristine. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Off-Roading Adventures
+3 Visitors can rent UTVs, ATVs, and Jeeps in Moab to tackle these routes. It's crucial to stay on marked trails to protect the fragile desert ecosystem and ensure safety. Many Redditors emphasize the importance of proper vehicle preparation and driving skills for these demanding trails. For those seeking a different kind of thrill, the Slickrock Bike Trail is a must-do for mountain bikers. This iconic trail is known for its challenging climbs and descents on smooth, undulating sandstone.
When planning your off-road adventure, remember that the desert climate can be extreme. Summer temperatures can soar, making early mornings or late afternoons the most comfortable times to ride. Always carry ample water and be prepared for dusty conditions.
Camping and Stargazing
+1 Many campsites provide spectacular views of the surrounding red rock formations and the vast desert sky. +1 Booking campsites in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons and weekends, as they can fill up quickly. The remote location of Sand Flats makes it an exceptional spot for stargazing. Far from city lights, the night sky comes alive with countless stars, planets, and the Milky Way.
When choosing a campsite, consider proximity to trails you plan to explore and the type of experience you're seeking. Some sites are more secluded, while others are closer to popular trailheads. Always practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the beauty of the area for future visitors.
Scenic Drives and Nearby Attractions
For breathtaking panoramic views, a short drive to Dead Horse Point State Park is highly recommended, especially for sunrise or sunset.
Consider exploring other scenic routes like the Upper Colorado River Scenic Byway (Highway 128) for more stunning desert vistas and access to river activities.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit