DRT Motorsports’ Top 5 Favorite Places To Ride

DRT’s five favorite Southwest UTV riding spots cover open dunes, sandstone, and remote desert. We like each one for a different kind of ride. Choose based on what your group wants to do and check local access before you tow.

1. Glamis, California

We come to Glamis for open sand and room to explore. First, pick a staging area and talk through how your group will stay together when a crest breaks the line of sight. Check the BLM Imperial Sand Dunes page for access and permit information.

2. Moab, Utah

Moab makes our list for its sandstone terrain and variety of routes. Next, compare route descriptions to your group’s experience and pick a shorter option for the first day. The Discover Moab OHV guide can help you get oriented.

3. Sand Hollow, Utah

Sand Hollow puts sand and rock close together. That mix is why it’s one of our favorite Southwest UTV riding spots. Decide which terrain you want to ride and verify the boundaries and access for Sand Mountain’s OHV area before leaving the staging area.

For a group with mixed experience, make the first ride short enough to turn around without a long detour. A familiar trail can ride differently after a storm or a busy weekend. That’s one reason we check the current conditions each time we return to our favorite Southwest UTV riding spots.

4. Johnson Valley, California

We like Johnson Valley for its remote desert and technical rock. Give yourself time to scout unfamiliar terrain, and check the BLM Johnson Valley page for access and closure information. Download your route and plan for limited services.

5. Logandale Trails, Nevada

Logandale combines red rock, sand, and washes. Finally, check the BLM Logandale Trails page for route information before heading out. If you want to compare these Southwest picks with forest trails and other riding areas, see our UTV trip-planning guide.