YOU DRIVE!! Iconic Grand Canyon Overlooks Full Day UTV Tour

Imagine cruising along rugged trails, your own UTV (side-by-side) under you, with sweeping vistas of the Grand Canyon’s North Rim and the surrounding Kaibab National Forest. For about 8 hours, at a cost of $599 per group, this guided adventure offers a rare chance to see the canyon’s less-trodden side—crowd-free, wilder, and more expansive. Led by friendly guides, you’ll hop into a top-notch Polaris vehicle, explore scenic viewpoints, and take in the breathtaking beauty of one of the world’s natural wonders.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the opportunity to drive yourself, giving you a sense of freedom and control that many tours can’t match. Plus, the tour’s focus on the North Rim means fewer crowds and more authentic, quiet moments with nature. It’s a full-day, adventure-packed outing that balances thrill and scenery, perfect for those who love a bit of off-road excitement and are eager to see a different side of the Grand Canyon.

Two things we especially like are the well-organized stops at stunning viewpoints and the fact that all safety gear (helmets and goggles) is provided—no need to pack your own. A possible consideration? You’ll need to bring your own lunch and snacks, so plan ahead for a full day outdoors. This tour suits adventurous travelers, families with older children, and anyone eager to experience the canyon in an active, hands-on way.

Key Points

• Self-Drive Excursion: You’re behind the wheel, not just riding along.
• Epic Views: Stunning overlooks of the North Rim and forest scenery.
• All Essentials Covered: Helmets, goggles, and water provided.
• Flexible & Authentic: Fewer crowds, more natural exploration.
• Full-Day Adventure: Around 8 hours of off-road fun and sightseeing.
• Bring Your Own Lunch: No meals included, so pack snacks.

An Authentic Hands-On Canyon Experience

If you’re craving a more active way to connect with the Grand Canyon, this tour hits the spot. Instead of just viewing the canyon from the typical tourist viewpoints, you get to operate your own UTV along scenic trails, feeling the terrain under you and getting an up-close perspective on its vastness.

Starting at the meeting point in Kanab, Utah, the day begins with a safety briefing and a quick introduction to your Polaris UTV. Once you’re comfortable with the vehicle, you’ll head into the Kaibab National Forest, a lush, pine-covered area that’s often overlooked by visitors heading straight to the South Rim. The first stop is the North Rim, where you’ll marvel at views that are just as impressive as the South Rim but much less crowded—a real highlight. The views from these viewpoints are stunning, offering a perspective of the canyon’s sheer scale—a mile deep and over 275 miles long—that leaves you with a sense of awe.

This tour’s real charm lies in the balance of driving and sightseeing. The guide, who is likely to be friendly and knowledgeable, will lead you through forested areas and along dirt trails, providing insights into the local environment and geology. With five hours at the viewpoints and one hour weaving through the forest, you’ll have plenty of time to soak in the scenery and snap photos.

One aspect that stands out is the crowd-free environment. Unlike the busy South Rim, the North Rim offers a quieter, more contemplative experience. As one reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way the views felt more intimate, and the fact that there weren’t many other people around made the entire experience more special.” It’s an ideal setting if you prefer to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more genuine encounter with nature.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: North Rim of the Grand Canyon

Your first major stop is the North Rim, accessed via the Kaibab National Forest. Here, you’ll get panoramic views of the canyon that are truly spectacular. These viewpoints are often less crowded than the South Rim, making it a perfect place to reflect and absorb the scenery. Expect to spend about five hours at this location, giving you ample time to explore, take photos, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.

Stop 2: Kaibab National Forest

The journey continues through the forests of Kaibab, where the landscape transitions from rugged canyon edges to lush, green woods. This part of the trip offers a different perspective—an opportunity to experience the mountain air and dense forests that surround the canyon. The one-hour drive through this area is a highlight, providing a peaceful contrast to the canyon’s grandeur.

Safety and Equipment

All participants are provided with helmets and goggles, which are mandatory for safety and comfort on the trails. We appreciated how straightforward the safety measures were, allowing us to focus on the fun. Bring a small backpack with water—though the guides have a cooler full of bottled water, having your own ensures you stay hydrated during hikes or if you want to stay longer at viewpoints.

Additional Details

• The tour is most suitable for ages 5 and up for children, with drivers needing to be at least 21 years old with a valid driver’s license.
• Everyone over 18 must bring government-issued ID for waiver purposes.
• The tour accommodates up to 12 travelers, ensuring a manageable and more personalized experience.
• Optional damage protection is available, with coverage up to $3000, which can be reduced to $1500 for an extra $50.

What to Expect from the Experience

Driving a UTV in rugged terrain isn’t just a thrill—it’s a way to see the landscape differently. You’ll feel the roughness of the dirt trails beneath you, the power of the vehicle, and the breathtaking views around every bend. While the day is packed, the pace is relaxed enough to stop and soak in the scenery, making it a great mix of adventure and sightseeing.

Most reviews highlight how well-organized the tour is. One traveler said, “The guides were friendly, helpful, and made sure everyone was comfortable. It’s a great way for those who want a bit of off-road fun with spectacular scenery.” Others appreciated the photo opportunities—with sweeping vistas from viewpoints and forest trails alike.

While the $599 price might seem steep, it covers the full-day adventure, safety gear, and the unique experience of being behind the wheel in such a dramatic setting. The cost also includes the adventure of exploring areas that few visitors get to see on traditional tours.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for adventurous families, couples, or groups who want an active day out. If you’re comfortable driving a UTV and enjoy outdoor activities, this will likely be one of your favorites. It’s also a good fit for those who value quiet, less crowded viewpoints, and are eager to experience the Grand Canyon’s North Rim from a more personal perspective. However, if you’re looking for a relaxed, sightseeing-only experience, this might be too adrenaline-focused.

The Sum Up

The YOU DRIVE!! Iconic Grand Canyon Overlooks Full Day UTV Tour offers a unique, hands-on way to experience the grandeur of one of the world’s most famous natural sights. It combines the thrill of off-road driving with the serenity of panoramic views, all in a setting that’s less busy than other popular spots. For those who love a bit of adventure, appreciate scenic beauty, and want to steer their own journey, this tour delivers.

While the price reflects the comprehensive nature of the experience—including safety gear and guided support—the real value lies in the authenticity and exclusivity of exploring the North Rim on your own terms. It’s especially suitable for active travelers and families with older children who seek a memorable day outdoors with plenty of photo-worthy moments.

If you’re looking to escape the crowds, enjoy some off-road fun, and see the Grand Canyon’s less-visited side, this tour is hard to beat. Just remember to pack some snacks, bring your driver’s license, and prepare for an adventure that you’ll be talking about for years.

FAQs

Is food included in the tour?
No, meals are not included. You’ll want to bring a lunch and snacks for the full day out, as the tour does not provide food.

What safety gear do I need?
Helmets and goggles are provided and mandatory for all participants. They ensure your safety and comfort while navigating the trails.

Can children participate?
Children must be at least 5 years old to ride on the UTV. For driving, participants must be 21 or older with a valid driver’s license.

What should I bring?
Bring a small backpack with water, snacks, and your driver’s license. Wearing comfortable outdoor clothing and closed-toe shoes is recommended.

Is the tour suitable for first-time UTV drivers?
Yes, guides will give a safety briefing and instructions. As long as you’re comfortable with the basics of driving, you should enjoy the experience.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates up to 12 travelers, allowing for a more intimate and personalized experience.

How long are the stops at viewpoints?
Expect around five hours at the North Rim viewpoints, with time to take photos, enjoy the scenery, and relax.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour relies on good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

What are the options for damage protection?
The rental includes coverage up to $3000 for damages. You can lower this to $1500 for an extra $50 by purchasing the optional buy-down.

This full-day UTV adventure in Zion’s North Rim promises a mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and a little bit of off-road adrenaline. It’s a great choice if you’re seeking a unique, active experience away from the crowds and want to get a closer look at the canyon’s rugged edges.