Greater Zion: Dinosaur Tracks in the Desert UTV Tour

If you’re considering a day of adventure in Zion’s surroundings, the Greater Zion Dinosaur Tracks in the Desert UTV Tour offers a fantastic way to explore off-the-beaten-path landscapes. Designed for those who love a mix of natural beauty, history, and adrenaline, this tour promises a memorable experience in the rugged terrain of Sand Hollow and beyond.

What we love about this experience are the expert guides who make the landscape come alive with stories and insights, and the stunning vistas of Zion and the surrounding desert that you’ll get to see along the way. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that this tour is about 2 hours long, so if you’re seeking a more relaxed or longer adventure, you might want to consider other options.

This tour is ideal for adventurers, families, or anyone eager to combine outdoor fun with a touch of prehistoric mystery. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned off-road explorer, the combination of scenery, history, and guided expertise makes this a solid choice for a day in Greater Zion.

Key Points

• Accessible adventure with off-road UTVs suitable for most travelers.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with engaging commentary.
• Diverse stops include dinosaur tracks, scenic viewpoints, and recreational spots.
• Great value at $139 per person, with included equipment and amenities.
• Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Impressive reviews highlight friendly guides and breathtaking landscapes.

An In-Depth Look at the UTV Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at Mad Moose Rentals & Tours in Hurricane, Utah, a lively hub for outdoor activities. From here, you’ll meet your guide, receive your helmet and goggles, and get briefed about the ride and safety measures. The convenience of a pickup service means you won’t have to worry about transportation to the meeting point, making the start smooth and hassle-free.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Mad Moose Rentals & Tours (Sand Hollow)

Your adventure kicks off at what is arguably Utah’s top-rated adrenaline attraction. Here, the emphasis is on off-road fun and water activities—think jet skis and boats—giving you a taste of the area’s recreational spirit. While this stop is primarily an introductory point, it sets the tone for the day—active, exciting, and outdoors. The admission ticket is included, so you’re ready to go without extra fuss.

Stop 2: Top of the World

Next, you’ll ascend to the top of the sand dunes in Sand Hollow State Park. This vantage point offers a 360-degree panoramic view—imagine gazing out over Zion to the north, the cliffs of Hurricane to the east, Arizona’s Strip to the south, and Pine Mountain. The scene is both humbling and exhilarating, perfect for snapping photos or simply taking in the vast desert landscape. This stop is free, but the view is priceless.

Stop 3: Sand Hollow State Park

Here, the tour takes a turn toward geology and history. The park’s famous red sandstone, sand dunes, and dirt trails are set against a backdrop of dinosaur tracks and Indian petroglyphs. For those interested in the area’s prehistoric past, the dinosaur footprints are a major highlight, offering a glimpse into a world millions of years ago. The admission fee is included, so you can explore these ancient mysteries without extra cost.

Stop 4: Sand Hollow Reservoir

Finally, you’ll visit the reservoir—a popular spot for lakeside camping, beaches, and water sports. It’s a relaxing way to wrap up the tour, with time to enjoy the scenery or simply breathe in the fresh desert air. Some travelers might choose to extend their visit here, though the tour itself ends back at the meeting point.

Riding the UTV: What to Expect

The core of this experience is the off-road UTV ride, with a minimum of two people per vehicle. You’ll ride through sandy paths, up and over dunes, and into secluded areas that most visitors never see from the main roads. The state-of-the-art UTVs are designed for comfort and safety, and the guides are experienced, making sure everyone stays safe while having fun.

Many reviews praise the friendly, knowledgeable guides—they’re key to making the ride informative and engaging. One traveler mentioned, “The tour guide was incredible – very friendly, very informative. We got to see so much and have a lot of fun in the dunes!!” This underscores how guides can elevate the experience from just a ride to a story-filled adventure.

The Value of the Tour

At $139 per person, this tour offers good value. It includes helmets, goggles, bottled water, ice, and a damage waiver, so you’re well-equipped for the adventure. While there’s a refundable damage deposit of $1,500, it’s a standard security measure, and you don’t pay it upfront—just a hold on your card.

Considering the short duration of about 2 hours, the tour packs a lot of activity and scenic viewing, making it a worthwhile investment for those eager to combine off-road excitement with a taste of Zion’s geology and history. It’s especially appealing for travelers who prefer guided experiences with all essentials covered, rather than trying to piece together off-road rentals and local tips on your own.

The Experience’s Strengths and Considerations

The highlight of the tour is unquestionably the expert guide and breathtaking views. Reviewers consistently mention how guides add a personal touch, making the experience memorable. The stunning vistas from the top of the dunes and the visibility of dinosaur tracks are highlights that keep visitors coming back.

However, potential downsides include the duration—some might find two hours too brief for a full day of exploration—and the group size limit of 99 travelers, which is generally manageable but can mean sharing with others on busy days. Also, the adventure level is moderate; it’s suitable for most, but those seeking a more intense off-road challenge might want to look for longer or more rugged tours.

The Sum Up

The Greater Zion Dinosaur Tracks in the Desert UTV Tour offers a well-rounded taste of Utah’s natural and prehistoric wonders. It’s perfect for families, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone who wants to see Zion’s lesser-known landscapes without the long hike or strenuous climb. The combination of scenic views, expert guides, and fun off-road riding makes this tour stand out for its value and authentic experience.

While two hours might seem short, the variety of stops and the quality of the guide help ensure you get a lot out of your time. If you’re interested in a manageable, engaging adventure that balances scenery, history, and a bit of adrenaline, this tour delivers.

For those keen on seeing dinosaur tracks, exploring sandy dunes, and learning about the area’s geology from knowledgeable guides — all at a reasonable price—this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s suitable for most travelers, especially those eager to combine fun outdoor activity with a touch of history.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the details don’t specify age restrictions, off-road UTV tours are generally suitable for most travelers who are comfortable with outdoor rides. Check with the provider for specific age or height requirements.

What should I bring on the tour?
The tour provides helmets and goggles, along with bottled water and ice. We recommend wearing comfortable outdoor clothing, closed-toe shoes, and sun protection like hats and sunscreen.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour involves riding in an off-road vehicle over sandy and uneven terrain, but it’s designed to be accessible for most participants. Those with mobility concerns should confirm with the provider.

How long is the tour?
The actual ride and stops last approximately 2 hours, making it a half-day adventure that’s easy to fit into a wider Zion itinerary.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance of the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable, so plan accordingly.

Can service animals participate?
Yes, service animals are allowed, ensuring accessibility for travelers with disabilities.

Exploring Zion’s desert landscapes on a UTV offers a fantastic way to see a side of Utah many visitors miss. With lively guides, scenic stops, and a bit of prehistoric mystery, this tour is a practical, engaging choice for your Zion adventure.