Story and photos by Kim Krause
Hosted by UTV Offroad Adventures
December 6-8, Bullhead City, AZ
UTV Offroad Adventures closed out 2024 with the exciting and festive Gambler UTV Experience, held December 6-8 in Bullhead City, Arizona. With 50 SXS vehicles and approximately 100 participants, the event blended thrilling rides, holiday cheer, and a spirit of giving, all centered around the beautifully decorated Bullhead City Belle.
The Bullhead Belle is a 65-foot mock paddlewheel boat, formerly known as The Celebration, now repurposed as a riverside concession facility. Located within Community Park at 1251 Highway 95 in Bullhead City, Arizona, it offers visitors elevated fast-casual dining with stunning views of the Colorado River and the Black Mountains.
Bullhead City Belle
The Bullhead City Belle
The Bullhead City Belle served as the heart of the event, illuminated with sparkling Christmas lights that created a magical holiday wonderland. Situated along the Colorado River, the Belle provided camping accommodations, meals, and a gathering place for riders. Its riverside location and festive atmosphere added a special charm to the weekend’s activities.
Friday Night Welcome
Friday night began with check-in at the Bullhead City Belle, where participants received swag bags, event t-shirts, meal tickets, and made their ride selections for the weekend. It was a time for catching up with old friends and making new ones, as the atmosphere buzzed with excitement for the adventures to come.
The evening continued with a scenic 25-mile night ride, giving participants their first taste of the stunning desert landscapes and setting the stage for a weekend full of exploration and camaraderie.
Nachos Makeshift Bar
Weekend Rides and Destinations
Riding in the Bullhead City area is a treat for offroad enthusiasts, offering diverse terrains and stunning desert scenery.
- Friday Night Ride: The 25-mile evening ride was a perfect introduction to the area, featuring the thrill of navigating trails under the stars.
Oatman
- Saturday and Sunday Rides: Participants chose between two longer routes, approximately 70 and 90 miles, completing one on each day. These trails featured stops at historic mines, the quirky town of Oatman with its friendly wild burros, breathtaking desert viewpoints, and the serene shoreline of Lake Mohave. The perfect weather, with clear skies and mild temperatures, made the riding experience even more enjoyable. Riders came from near and far, including participants from as far as Wisconsin. Among them was the event’s oldest driver, an inspiring 78 years old, showing that adventure knows no age limit!
Band playing on the Bullhead City Belle
Saturday Night Festivities
Saturday night at the Bullhead City Belle was filled with celebration and holiday cheer. A live band entertained the crowd, and raffles and special awards kept the excitement high. Awards were given for the farthest traveler, the oldest participant, and the always-fun “Dumb Ass Award.”
Dumb Ass Award
One of the night’s highlights was the announcement of the poker winner. Proceeds from the poker game, along with generous donations, supported the Salvation Army Christmas Angels, UTV Offroad Adventures’ chosen charity for 2024. Thanks to the incredible generosity of participants all year, $10,000 was raised and UTV Offroad Adventures will be purchasing toys for over 160 children this holiday season, spreading joy and holiday spirit to families in need.
Sunday Breakfast
Sunday Farewell
The event concluded with a warm breakfast on Sunday morning, giving participants a chance to reflect on the weekend’s adventures and bid farewell to new friends.
The Gambler UTV Experience showcased the best of offroad adventure, holiday festivities, and community spirit.
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