DRT Motorsports’ Top 5 Favorite Places To Ride
If there’s one thing we live for, it’s chasing new terrain and dialing in new products for whatever the desert dishes out. The Southwest is a playground for carving dunes, crawling rock gardens, or blazing high-desert washes. These are places where the views are next-level, and the landscape is fun and challenging.
The following guide covers DRT Motorsports’ top five favorite places to ride across California, Nevada, Arizona, and Utah. Whether you’re planning your next group ride or scouting new terrain, these spots offer the beauty and freedom that make off-roading so incredible.
1. Glamis Sand Dunes, California
Glamis is where the desert turns into a playground for off-road vehicles. Located in the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area, it’s the largest mass of sand dunes in California. This isn’t just a ride—it’s a rite of passage that earned its legend status for a reason. Endless bowls, ridgelines, rollers, and razorbacks mean there’s no shortage of excitement.
The terrain changes with the wind, which means no two paths are ever the same. Seasoned rivers love testing their machines on Oldsmobile Hill and the Sand Drags, while casual riders can enjoy wide-open cruising with gorgeous views and an epic sunset.
Camping is a huge part of the Glamis experience. With plenty of dry camping spots, it becomes a community gathering point during weekends and holidays. Expect RV villages, custom rigs, LED whips lighting up the night, bonfires, and storytelling under the stars.
Soft sand will eat underbuilt rigs alive, so make sure you’re running the right paddle setup, have a solid clutch kit, and don’t skimp on cooling or spare belts. Be sure to bring extra fuel, food, and plenty of water. The isolation is part of the charm, but staying prepared is key. When Glamis calls, come correct.
2. Moab, Utah
Moab is where trail tech meets scenery that looks like Mars with better traction. Riding here isn’t about speed—it’s about finesse. Nestled between Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, this red rock paradise is a magnet for riders who crave technical challenges and jaw-dropping scenery.
Trails like Hell’s Revenge and Fins & Things demand precise throttle control, smart line choices, skill, and a solid machine. Sharp rock edges, slickrock surfaces, and steep climbs offer the kind of ride that keeps your adrenaline pumping and your hands firmly on the wheel.
But it’s not just about the challenge. The views in Moab are unbeatable, with deep canyons, natural arches, and massive sandstone formations creating a surreal landscape that feels like another planet.
Moab’s also become a hub for off-roaders. You’ll find local shops, outfitters, service stations, and easy staging areas cater specifically to outdoor enthusiasts. Lodging and camping options abound, and the town has a laid-back vibe that welcomes adventure seekers with open arms.
Preparation is key here. Don’t hit these trails without solid UTV upgrades—think beadlocks, all-terrain rubber, skid plates, rails and guards, extra storage, and recovery points. Also, be sure to bring a recovery kit, first aid, and fire extinguisher in case of emergencies. Moab rewards those who respect the terrain and ride smart.
3. Sand Hollow State Park, Utah
Sand Hollow hits the trifecta—sand, rocks, and water. It’s one of the rare spots where you can shred dunes, flex through technical climbs, then wash the dust off with a dip in the reservoir—all without loading your trailer.It’s a dreamland for off-roaders looking to pack variety into a single weekend.
The terrain is diverse, with smooth silty half-pips, waves of dunes, rocky technical climbs, and wide desert washes. For a challenge, trails like The Chute and Double Sammy put skill and machine to the test. However, if prefer to joyride, there’s plenty of space to explore at your own pace.
Another big draw is the scenery. 360° views of red rocks contrasting the vast blue skies, and pink-orange sand, making it one of the most photogenic riding destinations in the Southwest. You’ll find riders of all skill levels enjoying the same stunning backdrop.
Camping is easy here, with full hookups, showers, and enough space to spread out your setup. Bring your trail tool kit and camera; this is one of the most photogenic ride spots in the region. Bonus: the trail variety makes it ideal for mixed groups. One weekend here, and you’ll see why it’s a DRT favorite.
4. Johnson Valley, California
Welcome to the battleground. Johnson Valley is the gritty, no-BS home of King of the Hammers, and it’s every bit as gnarly as the legends say. This is where you go to see what your rig—and your nerve—are made of.
Located in the high desert of Southern California, this area offers brutal rock crawling, wide-open desert runs, and some of the most iconic trail names in the sport. Trails like Chocolate Thunder, Backdoor, and Hammer Down aren’t for the faint of heart.
These routes will test your rig and push you to your limits. However, Johnson Valley isn’t just for elite racers. There are plenty of moderate trails and open desert areas where riders of all levels can have a blast.
The terrain is raw and unfiltered. Rocks and sand come together to create a rugged experience that feels like pure freedom. It’s the kind of place where you can get dirty, break stuff, and come back with stories worth telling.
Camping is primitive but widely available. It’s rough, remote, and hard on gear, so prep accordingly. We’re talking axle suspension upgrades, cage reinforcement, and a solid tool kit. During race season, Hammertown springs to life, but most of the year it’s a raw, featureless wasteland.
Bring everything you need, including spare parts, emergency kits, recovery systems, as well as food, water, sunblock, and layers as the weather is unpredictable. This desert doesn’t go easy on anyone. Johnson Valley is where you go to prove something. It’s not a park; it’s a test. And we wouldn’t have it any other way.
5. Logandale Trails, Nevada
Logandale’s the low-key gem that sneaks up on you—in a good way. Just an hour from Vegas, it offers a surprisingly peaceful escape from city life. It delivers high-desert terrain with a red rock twist. Red sandstone cliffs, winding canyons, and huge vistas provide a variety of challenges to keep every ride interesting.
The trail system is well-marked, making it easier for riders to explore without getting lost. There’s a great mix of beginner-friendly routes and more advanced options for seasoned drivers. Climbing over rock shelves, cruising along ridgelines, or diving into sandy washes, you can do it all in a day at Logandale.
One of the highlights is the view. The rich colors of the rocks change with the sun, creating a vibrant landscape that feels alive. Wildlife sightings are common, and the quiet out here is something special.
It’s peaceful out here, with fewer crowds than places like Sand Hollow or Moab. Local clubs often host group rides and trail cleanups, so there’s a solid community vibe too. There aren’t many services onsite, so pack like you’re boondocking and bring a trail map or GPS.
Amenities are limited, so remember to be self-sufficient. Bring plenty of water, let someone know your plans, and pack something to help you navigate when cell service is nill. It’s worth every bit of effort to experience this gem in the Nevada desert.
Enjoy Hitting Our Favorite Off-Road Trails
These five destinations hit every note we love about off-roading—adventure, challenge, community, and freedom. The Southwest is packed with variety, challenges, and unforgettable moments for anyone who loves life behind the wheel or gripping the bars. DRT Motorsports’ top five favorite places to ride showcases the best of what California, Nevada, Arizona, and Utah have to offer.
At DRT Motorsports, we design and test our UTV parts on trails just like these. Whether it’s protection, performance, or style, we have the gear to keep you pushing farther, climbing higher, and blasting harder. With the right gear from DRT Motorsports, you can ride smart, stay safe, and keep chasing that next great ride.