Greater Zion: UTV Rip and Ride at Sand Hollow Dunes

Greater Zion: UTV Rip and Ride at Sand Hollow Dunes

If you’re seeking a thrilling outdoor adventure near Zion National Park, the UTV Rip and Ride at Sand Hollow Dunes offers just that. For $139 per person, you get two hours of off-road fun, with opportunities to drive powerful UTVs across massive sand dunes and slide down them on sandboards. Located in Hurricane, Utah, this experience combines the rugged beauty of the desert with adrenaline-pumping activities, making it perfect for travelers craving authentic, active fun.

What we especially love about this tour is how guided expertise enhances the experience—your licensed guide ensures safety while pointing out the scenic highlights of the desert landscape. Plus, the sandboarding element adds a playful twist, letting you glide down the dunes for a quick dose of exhilarating fun. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that damage deposits of $1000 per vehicle are required, which might be a surprise for some. Still, it’s a small price to pay for such a memorable day. This tour suits adventure lovers, groups of friends, or families with older children who want a combination of off-road driving and sandboarding, all in a stunning desert setting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Location & Setting: Near Zion National Park, in the striking Sand Hollow State Park.
• Activities: Off-road UTV driving and sandboarding, with a licensed guide for safety.
• Duration & Price: 2 hours at $139 per person, providing good value for a full adventure.
• Included Equipment: UTVs, sandboards, helmets, goggles, bottled water.
• What to Consider: Damage deposit of $1000 per vehicle; rain or shine weather policy.
• Best for: Adventure seekers, groups, families with older children, and anyone wanting an authentic desert experience.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point & Logistics

Your adventure begins in Hurricane, Utah, at the Mad Moose Rentals & Tours meeting point. Arrive about 30 minutes before your scheduled start time to get fitted with gear—helmets and goggles—and listen to safety instructions. The tour typically runs in both the morning and afternoon, offering some flexibility depending on your schedule.

The UTV Ride: Conquering the Dunes

Once on board, you’ll be paired up (two riders per vehicle), and your licensed guide will lead the way into the vast sand dunes of Sand Hollow. These dunes are renowned as one of Utah’s top off-road destinations, with shifting sands that challenge even seasoned drivers. The terrain is a mixture of smooth slopes and challenging inclines, perfect for those wanting a taste of real off-road driving without the hassle of owning a vehicle.

Your guide, who according to reviews is truly knowledgeable, will keep you safe while allowing plenty of hands-on driving opportunities. If you’re not comfortable driving, you can sit back and enjoy the ride, but many find it more fun to take the wheel and test their skills on the loose sands.

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Sandboarding: Gliding Down the Dunes

After tackling the dunes in the UTVs, it’s time for some sandboarding fun. Equipped with a board, you’ll climb to the top of a slope and then slide down—a bit like snowboarding, but on loose, warm sand. The sensation of speed and control on the dunes can be surprisingly exhilarating, and it’s a wonderful way to add a playful element to the tour.

Scenic Highlights & Authentic Experience

Throughout the ride, your guide will point out the stunning desert scenery, offering insights into the landscape and its features. According to a reviewer, “Rebeca from the U.S. said, ‘Bo was our tour guide. He did amazing!!!’” which suggests knowledgeable guides are a key part of the appeal. Expect breathtaking views of rugged terrain and distant mountains, all within a setting that feels both remote and accessible.

What Travelers Love

Many comment on the expert guidance and how it boosts confidence—whether you’re a first-timer or experienced rider. The stunning vistas of the dunes and desert are another highlight, offering photo opportunities that don’t disappoint. The overall value of a two-hour adventure—including gear, guide, and the thrill of driving—makes it a memorable investment.

Practical Details & Considerations

You’ll need a valid driver’s license to operate the UTV, and a damage deposit of $1000 is required—refundable upon vehicle return, but it’s good to be prepared for that upfront. The tour is rain or shine, so check the weather to ensure you’re comfortable and prepared for the conditions. Since the vehicles are shared, group sizes tend to be manageable, keeping the experience intimate and personalized.

Who Will Enjoy This?

This tour is ideal for adventure seekers, groups of friends, or families with children over age 4 who are comfortable in vehicles and sand. It’s not suitable for pregnant women or those without a driver’s license, but if you’re looking for active fun in a beautiful setting, this is a fantastic choice.

Overall Value & Authenticity

The $139 price point for two hours sounds reasonable when you consider the gear, guide, and the unique thrill of sandboarding. It offers a rare combination of off-road driving and desert fun that many other tours don’t include. The fact that guides are described as amazing and knowledgeable enhances the overall experience—knowing you’re in capable hands makes the adventure more enjoyable and less stressful.

The tour’s authenticity shines through in its emphasis on local terrain and the opportunity to drive in real dunes, rather than a sanitized or artificial environment. It’s a genuine dose of Utah’s rugged beauty, perfect for those craving outdoor adventure and a break from more traditional sightseeing.

The Sum Up

This UTV Rip and Ride at Sand Hollow Dunes is a fantastic choice for travelers who want to combine off-road excitement with scenic desert views. It offers a balanced mix of guided safety and hands-on thrill, making it accessible for most adventure lovers. The sandboarding feature adds a playful element, elevating it above typical ATV rides.

If you’re after a fun, active day in Utah’s stunning landscapes—whether to boost your adrenaline, take great photos, or just enjoy some good old-fashioned outdoor play—this tour fits the bill. It’s especially well-suited to those who appreciate professional guides and well-maintained gear. While the upfront damage deposit might seem high, the overall experience delivers solid value and plenty of memorable moments.

For anyone looking to explore the less-traveled desert dunes near Zion with a friendly guide and a spirited ride, this experience offers the perfect blend of adventure, scenery, and fun.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children over 4 years old can participate, but they need to be comfortable on vehicles and able to follow safety instructions.

Do I need a driver’s license?
Yes, a valid driver’s license is required to operate the UTV during the tour.

What should I bring?
Bring your driver’s license and dress appropriately for the weather. Helmets and goggles are provided, but you might want sunglasses or sunscreen for sun protection.

Is alcohol or drugs allowed?
No, alcohol and drugs are not permitted on the tour.

What happens if it rains?
The tour runs rain or shine, so be prepared for the weather conditions. Rain might make the dunes more challenging but also more dramatic.

How much is the damage deposit?
A damage deposit of $1000 per vehicle is required—refunded when you return the vehicle in good condition.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, including time for gear fitting, instructions, and the ride.

Is transportation provided?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, offering flexibility in planning.

What’s the best way to prepare for this tour?
Arrive 30 minutes early with your driver’s license, wear closed-toe shoes (no sandals or flip flops), and come prepared for outdoor activity.

Whether you’re craving an adrenaline rush or just want to see some of Utah’s most beautiful dunes, this tour provides a fun, authentic, and memorable experience. It’s a great way to add a little adventure into your Zion area visit, with plenty of photo-worthy moments, and stories to tell long after you return home.

You can check availability for your dates here: