Canyonlands National Park Backcountry Tour

Discover the rugged beauty of Canyonlands National Park with this private backcountry tour from Moab. Priced at $252 per person and lasting approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, this experience offers an intimate look at Utah’s sprawling landscape, far from the typical paved routes. The tour takes you deep into the park’s remote areas, including the Island in the Sky district, using sturdy 4×4 vehicles that handle challenging terrain with ease. No reservation or entry fee is required, as all park fees and taxes are included in the price.

This tour is especially suited for those who want a personalized adventure, with customizable itineraries that focus on your interests. While the experience appeals to most, be prepared for off-road driving and variable terrain, which might not be suitable for those with mobility constraints. Based on glowing reviews, you can expect knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and a memorable journey through one of Utah’s most iconic landscapes.

Key Points

• Private tour ensures a personalized and flexible experience.
• Four and a half hours of off-road exploring in Canyonlands National Park.
• Visit key sights like Potash Mine, Shafer Trail, Musselman Arch, and Indian petroglyphs.
• All park entry fees, taxes, snacks, and bottled water are included.
• Guides are praised for their informative stories and friendly approach.
• Tour departs from Xtreme 4×4 Tours in Moab and ends at the same location.

Exploring the Remote Corners of Canyonlands

This backcountry tour starts at Xtreme 4×4 Tours in Moab, where the guide leads your group into untouched sections of Canyonlands, inaccessible by regular vehicles. The journey combines sections on paved roads with rough, unpaved 4×4 paths that wind through steep canyon walls and rugged terrain. These routes offer views of red-rock formations, sweeping canyons, and towering pinnacles, ensuring plenty of spectacular photo opportunities.

What sets this tour apart is the ability to venture beyond roadside viewpoints. You’ll visit Potash Mine, Shafer Trail, and Thelma and Louise Point, among other highlights, each offering a unique perspective on the park’s geology and history. The private nature of the tour allows for stops at any point for photos or just to soak in the scenery, guided by a local expert who points out notable features and shares intriguing stories.

Why the Private Tour Is a Major Advantage

Instead of large group buses, this private tour caters solely to your group. This means you get a more relaxed pace and the chance to customize the itinerary to focus on your interests. Whether you want to linger at Musselman Arch or explore ancient petroglyphs, the guide can adapt on the fly.

This personalized approach is highly valued by past participants, who feel they get an up-close and personal experience with the landscape. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly manner, making the tour both educational and enjoyable. They also handle the driving, so you can relax and enjoy the breathtaking scenery without concern for navigating the difficult terrain.

Iconic Stops: From Ancient Petroglyphs to Movie Sites

A highlight of this tour is the visit to Ancient Indian Petroglyphs, which offer a glimpse into the area’s past inhabitants. These rock carvings have been etched into sandstone cliffs, adding a layer of archaeological interest to the adventure.

Other notable stops include Musselman Arch, a remarkable natural rock formation that’s perfect for photos, and Thelma and Louise Point, famously featured in the movie. The tour also passes by breathtaking canyon views that showcase the Colorado River cutting through steep ravines, providing a dramatic backdrop for your photos.

Off-Road Adventure in Utah’s Challenging Terrain

The 4×4 vehicles used during this tour are well-equipped to handle Utah’s demanding landscape. The route includes both paved sections and unpaved, rugged roads that wind through the park’s backcountry. Expect a moderate level of physicality, with some bouncing and steep climbs, but nothing too strenuous for most travelers.

Past reviews highlight the exhilarating nature of the drive, with many mentioning that the guides expertly navigate the terrain and keep the experience safe and fun. This tour offers authentic off-road driving, which makes it stand out from typical sightseeing trips.

Food, Drink, and Comfort during the Tour

Included in the price are bottled water and light snacks, ensuring you stay refreshed amid the desert heat. Past participants appreciate the thoughtfulness of the amenities provided, making the tour comfortable despite the rugged setting.

Because the tour is private, you are free to bring additional snacks or drinks if desired. The meeting point at Xtreme 4×4 Tours is conveniently located in Moab, near public transportation options, and the tour ends back at the starting location.

Tour Logistics: Convenient Meeting Points and Flexibility

The tour departs from 2182 S Hwy 191 in Moab, a central location easy to reach. The private nature of the experience means there are no large groups, and the duration of approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes allows for a thorough exploration without feeling rushed.

Cancellation is free if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility in case of weather or schedule changes. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed and most physical levels accommodated.

What Makes This Tour a Standout Choice

The combination of private, customizable itineraries, expert guides, and access to hidden areas of Canyonlands makes this tour particularly appealing. Past reviews repeatedly praise the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Jack, who bring the landscape alive with stories and insights.

The value for money is clear, with all fees, taxes, snacks, and water included in the $252 per person price. Many find this a reasonable price considering the personalized service and access to remote, stunning scenery that is otherwise hard to experience independently.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Enjoy This Tour the Most?

This backcountry Canyonlands tour is perfect for adventure seekers, photographers, and history enthusiasts who want to explore Utah’s dramatic landscape beyond the typical viewpoints. The private format makes it ideal for families, small groups, or couples seeking a personalized experience.

While it involves some off-road driving, the guides’ expertise and the vehicle safety make it accessible for most. Because the tour is tailored to your interests, it offers a flexible, engaging, and memorable way to experience Canyonlands National Park.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to bring anything for this tour?
The tour includes bottled water and light snacks, but you may want to bring additional snacks, sunglasses, or hats for sun protection.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but the terrain involves off-road driving over rough paths, which may not be suitable for everyone. Service animals are allowed.

Can I customize the stops during the tour?
Yes, the private nature of the tour allows for customization to focus on specific sights or interests, depending on your preferences.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or other poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

How far in advance should I book?
It is recommended to book approximately 46 days in advance to secure your preferred date, especially during peak seasons.

This Canyonlands National Park Backcountry Tour offers a unique, intimate look at Utah’s wild side — a perfect choice for those eager to see the park’s hidden corners and natural wonders.