Hell’s Revenge in Moab, Utah combines steep sandstone fins, technical rock crawling and expansive canyon views just minutes from town. Located in Sand Flats Recreation Area, it is one of Moab’s signature UTV destinations, with a demanding main route and famous optional obstacles including Hell’s Gate, Mickey’s Hot Tub, Escalator and Tip-Over Challenge.
The appeal goes beyond the obstacles. Between climbs, the landscape opens toward the La Sal Mountains, the Colorado River canyon and the red rock country surrounding Moab. Our photos and videos below show the trail in several different side-by-sides, from a Honda Talon to Polaris RZRs, Kawasaki Teryx models and Can-Am Maverick X3s.
Hell’s Revenge Trail Overview
- Location: Sand Flats Recreation Area, northeast of Moab, Utah.
- Length: Approximately 6.5 miles; distance varies with overlooks and return route.
- Difficulty: Grand County lists a Red Rock 4-Wheelers rating of 6 and recommends experienced drivers.
- Terrain: Sandstone fins and domes, steep climbs, descents, sand and rock ledges.
- Access: A Sand Flats entrance fee applies; trailer parking is available at the trailhead.
Even when you bypass the named obstacles, Hell’s Revenge demands careful driving. The entrance immediately puts you on a steep sandstone fin, setting the tone for the climbs and descents ahead. A short mileage figure does not make this a quick or easy ride: allow time for scouting, spotting, traffic and overlooks.
Getting to the Hell’s Revenge Trailhead
From Moab, follow Sand Flats Road to the Sand Flats Recreation Area entrance station. The Hell’s Revenge trailhead is on the left just beyond the station. The original trailhead coordinates are 38.575590, -109.522528.
Check the official Sand Flats Recreation Area website for current fees, camping information and visitor updates before your trip.
Riding the Slickrock to the Overlook
The main route rolls across sandstone ridges and domes, with sandy connectors between sections. Dry sandstone can provide impressive traction, but the steep angles and exposed edges still require controlled throttle and braking. Stop where there is room for other vehicles to pass, and scout a descent before committing if you cannot see the line.
This video follows our Polaris RZR XP4 Turbo S from the trailhead toward the overlook. For more on slow-speed control in this platform, see our RZR XP Turbo S lower transmission gearing test.
Hell’s Gate
Hell’s Gate is an optional slickrock chute and one of the trail’s best-known challenges. Line choice matters: the walls and uneven surface can shift the vehicle’s balance as you climb. A successful pass in one machine does not guarantee the same line will suit a different wheelbase, track width or tire setup.
Walk the obstacle first and work with an experienced spotter. If the approach, traction or recovery options are uncomfortable, take the bypass. These videos show a Honda Talon 1000R and our Polaris RZR XP 1000 climbing Hell’s Gate.
Mickey’s Hot Tub
Mickey’s Hot Tub is an optional sandstone bowl with a steep exit. Water and muddy residue can reduce traction, making the climb considerably less predictable than clean, dry slickrock. Before dropping in, consider how you would get the vehicle back out if it cannot complete the climb.
Access matters here: Grand County identifies the marked Mickey’s Hot Tub as open to vehicles. Other potholes on Hell’s Revenge are closed to vehicle travel. Follow current signs rather than tire marks or older videos.
Watch @hartsutv attempt Mickey’s Hot Tub in this UTVGuide Instagram video.
Escalator to Hell
Escalator is a technical climb through a narrow, stepped groove in the sandstone. The line changes as the vehicle moves through the obstacle, and the ledges can unload a tire or push the chassis off balance. Smooth inputs, accurate tire placement and a spotter who understands the vehicle are essential.
This optional obstacle deserves a careful assessment before an attempt. Watch other vehicles, inspect the steps on foot and use the bypass if conditions or your setup make the climb questionable.
Tip-Over Challenge
Tip-Over Challenge adds an optional climb where off-camber positioning and tire placement deserve attention. Its name should not be the basis for deciding whether to attempt it. Evaluate the actual line, your vehicle’s stability and the available bypass.
Route Markings and the Return to the Trailhead
Follow the designated 4×4 route and painted chevrons. There are no open play areas, and the maximum speed is 15 mph. The route crosses the Slickrock Bike Trail; its white dashes are not a UTV route.
Plan the return before riding: Grand County warns that erosion has made the traditional exit ledges extremely difficult. Its guide encourages returning by backtracking or using the Staircase route. Consult the official Hell’s Revenge mileage log and maps and confirm conditions at the entrance station.
Planning a UTV Ride on Hell’s Revenge
Bring water, tools, tire repair supplies, recovery equipment and an offline trail map. Inspect tires, brakes, steering and suspension before the ride, and travel with another vehicle. Use low range where appropriate for your machine, wear helmets and restraints, and keep spectators clear of climbing vehicles and recovery lines.
Moab’s exposed sandstone offers little relief from the sun. Plan around the weather, start early in hot conditions and reassess steep obstacles when rain, standing water or mud changes traction. New drivers can experience the scenery with a professional guided tour before tackling the route themselves.
Before traveling, review the Utah OHV Program’s current education, registration and nonresident permit information. The Sand Flats entrance fee is separate from state OHV requirements.
Some of the original footage was recorded during past Rally on the Rocks trips. Those videos document our rides at the time; use current land-manager information when planning access and choosing a route today.
More Hell’s Revenge and Moab UTV Videos
More Moab Trails and Rock-Crawling Tests
- Where Eagles Dare: More steep slickrock terrain and canyon scenery from our Moab coverage.
- Moab’s Trifecta in our Kawasaki KRX 1000: Our ride connecting Poison Spider, Golden Spike and Gold Bar Rim, with a Where Eagles Dare detour.
- Kawasaki Teryx KRX 1000 Moab review: How the KRX performed during our original trail and rock-crawling test.
- Assault Industries Romps in Moab: Videos from four days of riding during the 2017 Rally on the Rocks.
