Explore Arches National Park’s Hidden Backcountry in Comfort

For those eager to see more than just the paved roads of Arches National Park, the Half-Day Backcountry Off-Road Tour offers a compelling option. Priced at $192 per person, this 4-hour journey departs from downtown Moab and takes you into the park’s less-traveled areas. The tour features both paved sections and unpaved 4×4 road paths, giving a genuine sense of adventure.

This tour is ideal for visitors who want a deeper look at the park’s more than 2,000 natural sandstone arches. With small group sizes limited to nine participants, the experience feels intimate and flexible. The licensed guide provides insightful commentary, making this a great choice for those interested in geology, local stories, and hidden geological features. Keep in mind, the tour costs $192 and excludes the $30 park entry fee, which can be paid separately or waived if you already have a pass.

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Key Points

Price: $192 per person for a 4-hour off-road adventure
Includes: Snacks, bottled water, transportation in a heated and air-conditioned 4×4
Highlights: Visits to Marching Men, Tower Arch, and Eye of the Whale Arch
Group Size: Small groups with up to 9 participants for a personalized experience
Suitable for: Visitors looking for off-the-beaten-path exploration with expert guidance
Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible and runs rain or shine

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Starting Point Near Moab’s Main Street

The tour begins in downtown Moab, specifically a few miles south on Highway 191. The meeting location is Moab Reservation Center/Xtreme 4×4 Tours, on the right-hand side of the highway. From this point, you’ll head toward the La Sal Mountains, leaving the more crowded park entrances behind to explore the less-visited backcountry.

Travelers should arrive prepared with sunglasses, hats, sunscreen, hiking shoes, and comfortable clothing. Since hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, participants need to meet at the designated location. The tour is available in both morning and afternoon slots, providing flexibility for your plans.

Ride in Comfort with Modern 4×4 Vehicles

One of the notable features of this tour is the modern transportation. The 4×4 vehicle used for the trip is equipped with heating and air conditioning, ensuring a comfortable ride regardless of weather conditions. This allows guests to enjoy the scenic views without discomfort, especially during the hotter months or cooler mornings.

The off-road experience involves traveling on unsealed, unpaved roads that lead to scenic vistas and geological formations inaccessible to regular vehicles. The vehicle’s design and amenities make this an enjoyable way to explore rugged terrain without sacrificing comfort.

Discover the Park’s Most Notable Landmarks

Throughout the trip, the guide highlights key formations such as Marching Men, Tower Arch, and Eye of the Whale Arch. These stops are chosen for their unique shapes, scenic value, and geological significance.

Since the tour is private or semi-private, you can opt to stop for photos at any point, maximizing your time at each location. The guide’s local knowledge ensures you get a complete understanding of each formation’s formation process, stories, and safety tips for photography.

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Unique Insights and Personalized Experience

The small group setting ensures a personalized approach. The licensed guide shares local stories, geology explanations, and hidden facts not easily found in guidebooks. This tour is particularly suited for those who want a less touristy experience and enjoy learning about the landscape in a relaxed pace.

Guests can customize their stops and enjoy a tailored experience that emphasizes what interests them most. The guide’s knowledge and friendly approach make the journey engaging while maintaining an informative tone.

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Snacks and Water for a Refreshing Break

Included in the tour are snacks and bottled water, providing light refreshments to keep energy levels high during the 4-hour adventure. These perks make the trip more comfortable, especially on warm days, without the need to carry additional supplies.

The snacks are perfect for a quick break amid the rugged scenery, helping you stay refreshed as you take in the views and listen to your guide’s stories.

Practical Details and Booking Flexibility

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving flexibility in case of changing travel plans. You can reserve now and pay later, which makes planning easier without immediate financial commitment.

Since the tour takes place rain or shine, weather should not deter your plans. It’s recommended to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and weather-appropriate clothing to stay comfortable throughout the trip.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This backcountry off-road tour appeals to those seeking a more adventurous perspective of Arches National Park. It is a great option for nature lovers, geology enthusiasts, or anyone wanting to see parts of the park that are often missed by typical sightseeing routes.

This tour is not suitable for those who prefer a longer or more strenuous experience or who prefer paved roads. The wheelchair accessibility makes it a considerate choice for guests with mobility needs, though participants should be prepared for some light off-road conditions.

Final Thoughts on the Arches Backcountry Tour

The Half-Day Backcountry Off-Road Tour combines comfort, expert guidance, and access to less-visited areas of Arches National Park. For $192, visitors gain a personalized experience that emphasizes scenic views, geological insights, and off-the-beaten-path destinations.

While the park entry fee is not included, the overall value lies in the guided exploration of hidden gems and the small group atmosphere. This tour suits those with limited time but a desire to see more than just the main sights.

If you want a relaxed yet adventurous way to dive deeper into Arches’ natural beauty, this off-road tour offers a comfortable, informative, and memorable option for your Moab visit.

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Arches National Park: Half-Day Backcountry Off-Road Tour

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
Snacks, bottled water, transportation in a heated and air-conditioned 4×4, and a licensed guide are included.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts 4 hours, usually available in the morning and afternoon.

Where does the tour start?
It begins a few miles south of downtown Moab on Highway 191, at Moab Reservation Center/Xtreme 4×4 Tours.

Is the tour suitable for all ages and mobility levels?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible and designed for small groups, but off-road conditions should be considered for some guests.

What sights will I see?
Stops include Marching Men, Tower Arch, and Eye of the Whale Arch, with plenty of opportunities for photos and learning.

Can I stop for photos whenever I want?
Yes, since the tour is private or semi-private, stops for photos are flexible and tailored to your interests.

Do I need to pay park entry fees?
The $30 park entry fee is not included but can be paid during booking or waived if you already have a pass.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, hats, sunscreen, hiking shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
The tour takes place rain or shine, so dress accordingly and be prepared for changing weather.

How do I book and pay?
You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour.