Swingarm City, Utah, is a distinctive UTV riding destination near Hanksville, where gray bentonite clay hills form a landscape of steep climbs, narrow ridges and winding gullies. Also called Swing Arm City, this OHV play area offers approximately 2,602 acres of open riding within its designated boundary, with Factory Butte providing a dramatic backdrop.
The appeal is the freedom to explore terrain that ranges from gentle rolling ground to demanding hills. For side-by-side riders, choosing a line that suits the vehicle and driver is essential: a ridge that works for a dirt bike may be too narrow for a UTV.
Where Is Swingarm City?
Swingarm City is on the north side of Utah Highway 24, approximately 12 miles west of Hanksville, between Factory Butte and the Caineville Mesas. Hanksville is a convenient place to fuel up and gather supplies before heading to the riding area.
- GPS reference: 38.36567, -110.91498
- From Hanksville: Travel west on Highway 24 for approximately 12 miles and look for the signed Swing Arm City entrance on the right.
- From Green River: Take I-70 west to exit 149, follow Highway 24 south to Hanksville, then continue west on Highway 24 to the riding area.
UTV Riding at Swingarm City
Swingarm City is an open OHV play area rather than a conventional marked trail network. Within the permitted boundary, riders can explore the clay hills and gullies without following a single established loop. Easier ground offers a place to get comfortable, while steeper terrain demands careful line selection.
Scout unfamiliar climbs and descents before committing. Blind crests can hide drop-offs or approaching riders, and narrow spines can leave little room to turn around. Keep your speed within your sight distance, give motorcycles and ATVs space, and avoid crossing steep slopes sideways. Wear appropriate protective gear and keep seat belts or harnesses secured.
Open Riding Boundaries and Factory Butte Access
Swingarm City is part of the BLM-managed Factory Butte Special Recreation Management Area. The broader area includes separate OHV play areas at Factory Butte and Caineville Cove. Open riding permission applies within designated play areas; surrounding land may require travel on designated routes or be closed to motorized use.
Check the maps and signs at the kiosks before riding. Bare ground and existing tire tracks do not establish that an area is open. Respect fences, boundary markers and protected plant habitat to help preserve motorized access.
The BLM Factory Butte Recreation Area page provides official maps, a brochure and contact information for the Henry Mountains Field Station. Consult those resources for current boundaries and any temporary restrictions before your trip.
Camping at Swingarm City
Dispersed camping makes it possible to spend more time exploring the riding area. Plan for a self-contained stay with your own water, food and supplies, and use existing disturbed sites where camping is permitted. Confirm camping guidance with the BLM, particularly if you plan to camp outside the open play area. Permission to camp does not automatically allow cross-country riding around your campsite.
Keep staging areas clear, pack out trash and check current fire restrictions. Hanksville offers lodging and services for visitors who prefer a town-based stay.
Weather and Riding Conditions
Dry conditions are important here. Bentonite clay becomes slippery when wet, and rain can make travel difficult while creating flooding hazards in washes. Avoid riding or towing onto wet clay, and check the forecast before leaving pavement.
Carry drinking water, recovery equipment, a first-aid kit and an offline map. The area is remote, so plan for delays and share your itinerary with someone before heading out.
Ken Block’s TERRAKHANA at Swing Arm City
Ken Block showcased this distinctive landscape in TERRAKHANA, driving a Ford Fiesta rallycross car through Swing Arm City’s hills and dirt terrain. The original video remains below for a look at the setting and the professional driving that helped bring it wider attention.
Explore more destinations in our UTV ride spot guides, and follow our land use and access coverage for issues affecting places to ride.
