BIG WATER ATV/UTV FIELD GUIDE
Red Sandstone, High Ridges, and a 360º Summit: A Three‑Hour UTV Circuit Through Big Water
This guide covers the EPIC 3 Hour UTV Tour (Classic) out of Big Water—what you’ll see on the three‑hour route, how it runs, and the practical details to plan the drive.
Red Sandstone, High Ridges, and a 360º Summit: A Three‑Hour UTV Circuit Through Big Water.
Adventure brief
Red Sandstone, High Ridges, and a 360º Summit: A Three‑Hour UTV Circuit Through Big Water
Embark on an adrenaline‑tinged drive across red sandstone between the Grand Staircase and the Vermilion Cliffs National Monuments. Over a three‑hour route you’ll pilot a classic UTV through dunes, climbs, and canyons, reaching high viewpoints and stopping often for photos and exploration.
Experience the thrill of the EPIC 3 Hour UTV Tour (Classic) with Epic Adventure Rides in Big Water, Utah. This private outdoor adventure takes you through extraordinary terrain between the Grand Staircase and Vermilion Cliffs National Monuments. You’ll drive a powerful UTV across varied landscapes — from rugged desert trails to sweeping panoramic vistas that stretch endlessly. Whether you’re new to off-roading or a seasoned enthusiast, the tour is designed for all skill levels, offering expert guidance and safety tips along the way. Expect adrenaline-pumping turns, stunning geological formations, and multiple stops to capture breathtaking photos. This immersive ride showcases the raw beauty of southern Utah’s wilderness, giving you a perfect blend of excitement and nature appreciation. Ideal for families, groups, or solo adventurers seeking a memorable outdoor experience, the tour highlights the unique textures of red rock, desert flora, and expansive sky. Prepare for a hands-on exploration that blends adventure, discovery, and relaxation in one unforgettable outing.
Route Schematic
Route Schematic — Key Stops
The itinerary climbs from the trailhead to a high viewpoint, then descends past canyons and geologic features with multiple photo stops.
Trailhead Departure
Begin at the trailhead in Big Water and depart across red sandstone toward the Grand Staircase ascent.
Ascent to Second Step
A steady climb that gains nearly 2,000 feet, taking you up toward the Grand Staircase second step.
360º Panoramic Viewpoint
Pause at a panoramic viewpoint on the second step for sweeping views across the Grand Staircase and Vermilion Cliffs.
Descent Past Canyons
Descend from the viewpoint, moving past canyons and striking geologic features with multiple stops for photos and short explorations.
Routes and stops are subject to operator direction and trail conditions; drivers should be prepared for climbs and descents on desert trails.
What the day feels like
What the Three‑Hour Ride Feels Like
The EPIC 3 Hour UTV Tour is a compact circuit that blends steady climbs, technical trail driving and open‑air panoramas. Over three hours you’ll ascend toward the Grand Staircase second step, pause at a 360º viewpoint, then drop back through canyons and sandstone formations—moving at a pace intended to suit all skill levels and groups while allowing frequent photo and exploration stops.
THE VEHICLE
Drive Classic UTVs Across Red Sandstone
Participants get behind the wheel of classic UTVs to travel over dramatic red‑sandstone terrain, enjoying the capability and handling of the vehicles on desert trails.
THE SUMMIT
A 360º View After Nearly 2,000 Feet of Climb
The route climbs nearly 2,000 feet to a panoramic, 360‑degree viewpoint on the Grand Staircase second step—an elevated look across the surrounding monuments and redrock plateaus.
THE TRAILS
Descents, Canyons and Multiple Photo Stops
After the summit the tour descends past canyons and striking geologic features, with plenty of stops for photos and short explorations along the way.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and one practical seating caveat.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The outing runs three hours.
Meet at the Big Water Trail‑Head location for departure.
Drive classic UTVs across red sandstone, climb nearly 2,000 feet to a 360º viewpoint, then descend past canyons and geologic features with multiple photo stops.
Vehicles seat five, but the operator notes that large adults may be more comfortable with four guests per vehicle—consider group size when reserving.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the EPIC 3 Hour UTV Tour (Classic)?
The tour lasts three hours.
Where do we meet for the tour?
The meeting point is the Big Water Trail‑Head location.
How strenuous or technical is the driving?
The pace is set to suit all skill levels and groups while covering climbs and trail driving across red sandstone.
What are the route’s standout sights?
The route climbs to a 360‑degree panoramic viewpoint on the Grand Staircase second step and descends past canyons and striking geologic features, with multiple photo stops.
How many people fit in a vehicle?
Vehicles have five seats, but the operator notes that large adults may be more comfortable with four guests per vehicle.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-13T22:35:51.846Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.