Moonscape Overlook Factory Butte and Bentonite Hills

Discover Utah’s Hidden Landscapes on the Moonscape Overlook, Factory Butte, and Bentonite Hills Tour

This guided tour offers a journey through some of Utah’s most spectacular yet less-visited natural wonders, including Bentonite Hills, Moonscape Overlook, and Factory Butte. For about $230 per person, you’ll spend roughly 4 to 5 hours exploring these otherworldly landscapes with a professional guide, making it ideal for those who crave authentic, scenic adventures outside the usual crowds. The tour includes convenient pickup from Torrey, and the trip is designed to maximize your time at these remarkable sites, with ample opportunities for stunning photography—especially at sunrise or during the blue hours. If you have a drone, you’ll be pleased to know drone use is permitted here because these areas are outside the National Park boundaries.

We particularly appreciate how the guide not only takes you to the highlights but enriches the experience with insightful geology and history commentary. We also loved the flexibility of the 4×4 drives along backroads that reveal sweeping vistas and bizarre rock formations. And, let’s be honest, who doesn’t want to stand on a mesa overlooking a landscape that looks like the surface of Mars? That’s exactly what you get here, and it’s guaranteed to be a highlight of your trip.

The main consideration? The price is a bit higher than some other local tours, but the private guide, exclusive access, and unique sites justify the cost for many travelers. This tour suits those who want a personalized experience, excellent photo opportunities, and a chance to explore Utah’s lesser-known but extraordinary geology. It’s especially perfect for adventurers, photographers, and anyone eager to see landscapes that seem almost too surreal to be real.

Key Points

• Unique Landscapes: Visit Bentonite Hills, Moonscape Overlook, and Factory Butte, all known for their alien-like beauty.
• Expert Guidance: Your guide, like Jason or Sam, offers engaging insights into the geology and history of the area.
• Flexible & Private: The tour is exclusive to your group, with pickup included, allowing a tailored and relaxed experience.
• Photo-Ready Views: Best at sunrise or blue hour, with drone-friendly areas for capturing incredible footage.
• Comfortable Transport: Travel in a well-equipped, air-conditioned SUV along backroads away from the crowds.
• Value for Money: Though priced at $230, many reviews emphasize the quality of the experience and personalized service.

Exploring the Itinerary in Depth

Starting Point at Torrey

Your adventure begins with a convenient pickup at Wayne County Tourism in Torrey. This small-town hub is the perfect launch pad for exploring Utah’s remote corners. The guide will greet you warmly, setting the tone for a friendly, informative day. We found that the small-group or private setting means you get personalized attention and a flexible pace—whether you want extra photo stops or a quieter moment to soak in the views.

Capitol Reef’s Hidden Gems: Bentonite Hills and Moonscape Overlook

Your first stops are Bentonite Hills and Moonscape Overlook, two destinations that have gained popularity thanks to Instagram but remain relatively uncrowded. These sites showcase strange, colorful rock formations that resemble landscapes from Mars or the surface of the Moon. Picture soft, rainbow-colored hills that seem to ripple and undulate, and a vast overlook that offers panoramic vistas of untouched terrain.

Moonscape Overlook is a particularly dramatic viewpoint. From this vantage point, you’ll get sweeping views of an intricate, textured landscape that feels like gazing at another planet. Many guests, as one reviewer noted, find this view “breathtaking” and use it for stunning photos during the blue hour or sunrise. It’s a spot that rewards patience and a good camera.

Off-Road Adventure to Factory Butte

Next, your guide will take you on 4×4 drives along back roads that cut through the landscape, passing by the iconic Factory Butte. Standing tall and proud, Factory Butte is a favorite among photographers and geology buffs alike. Its towering, mushroom-shaped profile is an instantly recognizable feature of the area, offering a sense of scale and grandeur that’s hard to match.

The drive itself is part of the experience—smoothing out the route between the most breathtaking spots and giving you a sense of the rugged terrain Utah is famous for. According to reviews, guides like Jason or Sam are “skilled off-road drivers” who make the journey both safe and enjoyable, with engaging commentary sprinkled along the way.

End with the Surreal Bentonite Hills

The tour culminates in Bentonite Hills, a softly sculpted, rainbow-colored landscape that looks like it belongs on another planet. This area has become a favorite for drone footage due to its unusual, vibrant hues and gentle curves. It’s a site that sticks with you long after you leave, especially if you manage to capture the perfect shot.

Why This Tour Stands Out

We loved the personalized attention offered by the private guide, as well as the chance to visit these less-visited sites that are gaining popularity thanks to their surreal beauty. The fact that you’re exploring outside the National Park boundaries means drone use is allowed, which opens up a whole new realm of photography possibilities.

One reviewer summed it up perfectly, saying, “This tour is an unforgettable experience. The sites and vistas are stunning, and Jason is a phenomenal expert to guide you.” Many guests comment on how knowledgeable their guides are, sharing insightful details about the geology, history, and local lore of the area.

Considerations

While the experience is excellent, it does come at a premium price. It’s a relatively short tour, but it’s packed with quality sights and expert guidance. Be prepared for the drive to be comfortable but bumpy in parts, and ideally, plan your visit around sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting and photo opportunities.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for photographers, geology enthusiasts, and adventurers eager to explore Utah’s hidden landscapes. It’s perfect for travelers who want a personalized experience with flexible timing and the benefit of a knowledgeable guide. If you’re looking for a high-value, memorable day away from the crowds, this tour offers a fantastic way to see some of the most otherworldly scenery the state has to offer.

Final Thoughts

For those craving an authentic experience and stunning visuals, this tour delivers more than enough. It combines off-the-beaten-path sites with expert guidance, ensuring your time here is both educational and awe-inspiring. The landscapes are unlike anywhere else, and the chance to see them with a small, private group makes for a truly special outing. While it’s a bit pricier than some options, many reviews confirm the value—unique sights, professional guides, and the ability to capture unforgettable photos.

If you’re visiting Utah and want to see landscapes that seem almost beyond this world, this is an experience you’ll talk about long after you’ve returned home. Just remember to bring your camera, your sense of adventure, and maybe a drone for the ultimate footage.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from Wayne County Tourism in Torrey and transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned SUV for the duration.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, giving enough time to enjoy multiple sites without feeling rushed.

Can I use a drone during the tour?
Yes, drone use is allowed since the areas visited are outside the National Park boundaries, which provides excellent opportunities for aerial photography.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, extra batteries, snacks, and water. Weather can vary, so dress comfortably and be prepared for some off-road driving.

Are tips included?
Tips are not included, but the reviews highlight that guide gratuities are appreciated if you’re satisfied with the service.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, including service animals. However, consider your comfort with off-road vehicles and walking at viewpoints.

This guided tour offers a rare glimpse into Utah’s most surreal landscapes, guided by experts who know exactly how to make your visit both enjoyable and memorable. Expect jaw-dropping scenery, friendly guides, and plenty of photo opportunities. It’s a perfect choice for those wanting to see the extraordinary on a manageable, well-organized trip.