Rhodes Off Road Adventures Guided Jeep Tour from Rock Crawling to Petroglyphs

If you’re craving an authentic off-road journey through Utah’s rugged and scenic landscapes, this tour from Rhodes Off Road Adventures promises a mix of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural discovery. With a consistent 5-star rating based on 32 reviews, it seems to deliver just what travelers seek: knowledgeable guides, breathtaking sights, and a flexible itinerary that caters to your interests.

What we love about this experience is how it combines adventure and authenticity—you get the thrill of rock crawling, the awe of petroglyphs, and the chance to see lesser-known sites like Moonshine Arch. The tour is also highly customizable, allowing you to focus on what appeals most—whether that’s hiking, photography, or simply soaking in the views. The only thing to keep in mind is that, since it’s a private tour, it’s best suited for those who value a personalized experience rather than a big group outing.

This tour would suit outdoor lovers, families, or anyone wanting a balanced mix of excitement and cultural exploration. If you’re after a flexible, well-reviewed adventure in Utah’s backcountry, this guided jeep tour could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Personalized experience tailored to your interests
• Knowledgeable guides with a deep understanding of local history and terrain
• Unforgettable sights including petroglyphs, dinosaur tracks, and Moonshine Arch
• Off-road excitement with rock crawling in a safe, controlled environment
• Flexible itinerary allowing stops based on your preferences
• Great for families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and culture

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

How the Tour Starts: Flexible, Comfortable Pickup and Meeting Point

The adventure kicks off early at the Utah Welcome Center or Jensen Welcome Center around 8:00 am. The tour is private, so only your group joins, making for a more intimate experience. The pickup is offered, which is a real plus if you’d rather not worry about logistics or navigating yourself into Utah’s wild terrain. The total duration is around 3 to 4 hours, making it a manageable half-day adventure that fits well into most travel plans.

Exploring Moonshine Arch – A Natural Wonder at Your Fingertips

Your first stop is Moonshine Arch, accessible via jeep ride rather than a hike—perfect if you’re not keen on strenuous walks or have family members with limited mobility. This impressive natural rock bridge is less crowded than other famous arches, offering a more secluded experience. Visitors can snap photos, sit beneath the arch, or even climb on it if they’re feeling brave.

One reviewer, Joey, noted how this spot provided excellent photo opportunities and a chance to simply soak in the scenery without the exertion of a trek. This stop is truly about enjoying a spectacular geological feature in comfort.

Rock Crawling in Vernal – An Adrenaline-Pumping Adventure

Next, your guide takes you into the Doc’s Beach off-road park for a thrilling rock crawling session. If you’ve never experienced this before, it’s a wild ride—literally. Expect steep ups and downs, tight turns, and impressive maneuvers as your guide navigates the rugged terrain. It’s an adrenaline rush that appeals to adventure seekers as well as those who simply want to see Utah’s dramatic landscape from a different angle.

Deborah, who traveled with her family, described it as “a fantastic driver” who made sure everyone had a blast. Children as young as five reportedly loved the experience, thanks to the careful driving and captivating scenery.

Searching for Petroglyphs and Dinosaur Tracks

Throughout the tour, your guide will point out petroglyphs and dinosaur footprints, offering glimpses into Utah’s ancient past. These sites are often off the beaten path, and having a knowledgeable guide makes all the difference. Travelers like Joey appreciated the extra insights and the ability to see these historic carvings and footprints without the hassle of researching or navigating alone.

Visiting Cave and Slot Canyons – Unexpected Treasures

Depending on your preferences, the guide can take you into a cave or explore slot canyons, adding an element of discovery. These hidden gems showcase Utah’s geological diversity and give you a chance to venture into some of the more secluded areas. It’s these custom touches that make the tour stand out, especially for those who love spontaneous, off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Scenic Views from Split Mountain – A Dazzling Outlook

The tour includes stops at vantage points like Split Mountain, renowned for its sweeping views of the surrounding wilderness. Here, you’ll get a chance to appreciate Utah’s vast, untouched landscapes—perfect for photos and quiet reflection. These stops provide a well-rounded experience, balancing adrenaline with peaceful scenic moments.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $260 per group (up to four people), the cost might seem high at first glance. But considering the personalized nature of the experience, the wide variety of sights, and the inclusion of off-road adventure, it’s a compelling option. The fact that it’s a private tour means your group sets the pace, asks questions, and explores exactly what interests you most.

Plus, the tour’s flexibility is a big advantage. Whether you want to focus more on photography, enjoy a longer petroglyph visit, or add a hike, your guide can adapt accordingly. The reviews consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and attentiveness—these are the folks who truly enhance the experience by sharing their insights and keeping everyone safe.

Key Components of the Itinerary

• Moonshine Arch: A less visited but stunning natural bridge accessible by jeep, offering fantastic photo opportunities.
• Vernal Rock Crawling: An adrenaline-pumping drive through challenging terrain, perfect for thrill-seekers and families alike.
• Petroglyphs and Dinosaur Tracks: Unique opportunities to witness Utah’s ancient carvings and footprints, often in remote locations.
• Caves and Slot Canyons: Optional explorations into Utah’s geological formations, adding to the sense of adventure.
• Views from Split Mountain: Panoramic vistas that encapsulate Utah’s rugged beauty.

What the Reviews Highlight

Joey raved about Robert’s conscientiousness, knowledge, and the ability to find special petroglyph sites. Deborah appreciated the driver’s skill and the tour’s adaptability for her young children. Both reviews suggest that the guides are not only professional but also genuinely passionate about sharing Utah’s natural treasures.

Practical Details and Tips

• Booking in advance is recommended, with an average of 64 days notice, likely due to limited availability or high demand.
• The tour duration of 3 to 4 hours makes for a manageable half-day outing, leaving room for other activities.
• The price of $260 per group is reasonable considering the private, customizable nature of the experience, especially if you’re traveling with family or friends.
• Weather considerations are important; if poor weather cancels the tour, you’ll receive a different date or a full refund.
• Service animals are permitted, making it accessible for travelers with pets or service animals.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues might want to check specific site access.

The Sum Up

This guided jeep tour from Rhodes Off Road Adventures is an excellent choice for those who want a flexible, well-rounded Utah outdoor experience. It combines the thrill of off-road driving with cultural treasures like petroglyphs and dinosaur footprints, all led by guides who are knowledgeable and attentive. The stops at Moonshine Arch and Split Mountain add visual wow factors, while the rock crawling offers an adrenaline rush that families, couples, or groups of friends can all enjoy.

Perfect for travelers looking to explore Utah’s rugged terrain without sacrificing comfort or personal attention, this tour offers a unique blend of adventure, scenic beauty, and history in a private setting. Whether you’re seeking family fun, photographic opportunities, or simply a chance to see Utah’s wild side, this experience delivers on all fronts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided from the meeting point? Yes, the tour includes pickup, so you don’t have to worry about getting into the remote areas yourself.

What’s the best time of day to take this tour? The tours start at 8:00 am, which helps you beat the midday heat and enjoy the cooler morning air in Utah’s backcountry.

Can I customize the stops or activities? Yes, the tour is tailored to your interests, whether that’s focusing on petroglyphs, hiking, or rock crawling.

Is this tour suitable for families with small children? Absolutely. Reviewers mention that children as young as five enjoyed the rock crawling, thanks to the careful driving.

How long are the stops at each location? Stops vary but typically include about an hour at Moonshine Arch and two hours for rock crawling and exploration in Vernal.

What should I bring? Comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes, sunscreen, and a camera. Your guide will handle the rest.

Is the tour weather-dependent? Yes, if the weather turns poor, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled with a full refund.

What sets this tour apart from others? Its personalized approach, knowledgeable guides, and the variety of sites explored make it a standout experience.

Can I join this tour solo? The maximum group size is four, so it’s perfect for small groups or families.

What is the cancellation policy? Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, providing flexibility if plans change.

If you’re eager to explore Utah’s wild side with a guide who knows the land inside and out, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of thrill, culture, and scenic beauty—an adventure that’s both fun and meaningful.