🏜️ The Best Side Quest Near Zion National Park: UTV Riding at Sand Hollow State Park
If you’re planning a trip to Zion National Park, chances are your itinerary is packed with iconic hikes like Angels Landing and The Narrows.
But here’s what most people don’t realize…
👉 Some of the best adventures near Zion aren’t inside the park at all.
Just 15–20 minutes away, you’ll find one of the most underrated, adrenaline-filled experiences in Southern Utah: UTV riding at Sand Hollow State Park.
And honestly? It ended up being one of the highlights of our entire trip.
🚐 Why You Should Add This to Your Zion Itinerary
Zion is incredible—but it can also be:
crowded
physically demanding
limited to hiking-based activities
Adding a UTV adventure gives you a completely different way to experience the desert landscape.
Instead of staying on crowded trails, you get:
wide-open terrain
freedom to explore
access to hidden viewpoints most visitors never see
It’s the perfect balance to a Zion-heavy itinerary—especially if you’re traveling with kids, doing a longer Southern Utah road trip, or living the RV life like we are.
🏁 Our Experience with Mad Moose Rentals
We booked our ride through Mad Moose Rentals, and the process was incredibly easy—even for first-timers.
Here’s how it works:
✔️ Quick orientation
They walk you through how to operate the UTV and make sure you feel comfortable before heading out.
✔️ GPS with preloaded routes
This was a game changer. The GPS guides you to:
scenic overlooks
popular landmarks
hidden gems you’d never find on your own
✔️ Choose your own adventure
You can go at your own pace—whether you want a chill scenic ride or full-on adrenaline.
🌎 Must-See Stops in Sand Hollow
One of the best parts of riding at Sand Hollow is the variety of terrain and destinations.
Here are a few spots you won’t want to miss:
🔥 Top of the World
A jaw-dropping viewpoint overlooking the desert. It feels like you’re standing on the edge of everything.
🕳️ Resurrection Cave
A unique rock formation that makes for a fun stop (and great photos).
🪨 Mad Moose Rock
An iconic photo spot—and even better if you have drone footage.
🏜️ The Sand Dunes
Perfect for:
high-speed riding
playful climbs
letting loose and just having fun
👨👩👧 Who This Is Perfect For
This isn’t just for hardcore off-roaders. It’s surprisingly versatile:
Families with kids (huge hit)
Couples looking for a fun date idea
RV travelers wanting unique stops
First-time adventurers (super beginner-friendly)
Even better? They’re dog-friendly, which is a rare win for travel activities.
💸 How to Get 10% Off Your Booking
If you’re planning to add this to your trip, you can save a bit on your rental:
👉 Use code THEROAMSTEADERS for 10% off your booking with Mad Moose Rentals
(I’ll link everything you need below to make it easy to book.)
🗺️ Tips for Planning Your Visit
To make the most of your experience:
Book in advance, especially during peak Zion season
Go early morning or late afternoon for cooler temps + better lighting
Bring water + sunscreen (it gets hot fast)
Wear closed-toe shoes + sunglasses (trust me on this one)
Plan at least 2–4 hours to explore
🚐 Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
If you’re already making the trip to Zion, this is one of those experiences that takes your trip from great to unforgettable.
It adds:
adventure
variety
and a completely different perspective of Southern Utah
So if you’re building your Zion National Park itinerary, don’t just stick to the hikes.
👉 Add a side quest. You won’t regret it.
📌 Save This for Your Zion Trip
Planning a Utah road trip, visiting the Mighty 5, or traveling full-time in an RV?
This is one of the best bucket list adventures near Zion National Park—and definitely worth a spot on your list.
Need Help Planning Your Trip to Zion National Park?
I put together a complete digital e-guide (COMING SOON) to help you plan the perfect Zion + Southern Utah adventure—without the overwhelm.
Inside, you’ll get:
📍 hidden gems (like this one) most visitors miss
🏜️ the best things to do outside the park
📆 done-for-you itineraries to avoid crowds
🥾 hike breakdowns (what’s actually worth it + when to go)
🗺️ easy-to-follow planning so you don’t waste time guessing
👉 Subscribe below to get notified to get the guide + start planning your trip the right way
