🏜️ 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?
(COMING SOON - June 2026) I put together a complete digital e-guide to help you plan the perfect Zion + Southern Utah adventure—without the overwhelm.
Inside, you’ll get:
📍 hidden gems (like the ones in this post)
🏜️ the best things to do inside and outside the park
🚐 RV-friendly routes, stops + campground tips
📆 done-for-you itineraries to avoid crowds
🥾 hike breakdowns so you know what’s actually worth it
👉 Subscribe at the bottom of this page (or click the product link above and submit your email to get on the waitlist) to get notified when it’s ready to grab the guide + plan your trip the right way
