San Rafael Swell Expedition

San Rafael Swell Expedition logo
Date:
October 8-11, 2027
Location:
Green River, UT
Type:
Overnight trip

About this event

San Rafael Swell Expedition

3 Days. 250 Miles. One Epic Ride.

Get ready for an unforgettable off-road adventure through some of Utah’s most rugged and breathtaking terrain. The San Rafael Swell Expedition is a 3-day guided UTV experience that takes you deep into the heart of the wild—where towering rock formations, remote desert landscapes, and high-mountain trails collide.

The Journey

Your adventure begins in Green River, the gateway to the legendary San Rafael Swell. From there, you’ll ride into one of the most unique geological playgrounds in the country—filled with massive arches, twisting canyons, and endless off-road terrain that feels untouched by time.

Day one takes you across the Swell, navigating epic trails and scenic overlooks as you make your way to Ferron. You’ll settle in for two nights at the comfortable and rider-friendly Big Mountain Lodge—your home base for the adventure.

Arapeen Loop Experience

Day two is all about elevation, scenery, and pure riding fun. You’ll hit the renowned Arapeen OHV Trail System, known for its diverse terrain, alpine views, and endless trail options. This loop ride delivers everything from smooth forest roads to technical sections, all while surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes.

After a full day of riding, you’ll return to the lodge to relax, recharge, and swap stories from the trail.

The Final Push

On day three, the adventure continues as you take a completely different route back to Green River. Expect new terrain, fresh views, and one last dose of adrenaline before completing the expedition.

Why This Ride?

This isn’t just a ride—it’s a full-blown off-road experience:

  • Explore the raw beauty of the San Rafael Swell
  • Ride the iconic Arapeen trail system
  • Cover 250 miles in 3 days
  • Stay two nights in comfort at a remote mountain lodge
  • Experience new terrain every single day

Whether you’re chasing adventure, scenery, or just the thrill of the ride, the San Rafael Swell Expedition delivers it all.

Ready to ride? This is the kind of trip you’ll be talking about long after the dust settles.

Don’t wait to get your deposit in to save your spot Limited spots available!

Itinerary

San Rafael Swell Expedition – 2 Nights

Green River, UT → Ferron, UT Overnighter (2 Nights)

This two-night UTV adventure starts in Green River and takes you deep into the rugged beauty of the San Rafael Swell, followed by a high-elevation ride through the incredible Arapeen OHV Trail System. Expect massive rock formations, remote desert terrain, alpine views, and nonstop off-road excitement over three unforgettable days.

Start Location: Green River, Utah (specific staging location TBD)
Lodging: 2 Nights in Ferron at Big Mountain Lodge

Saturday – Ride from Green River to Ferron

Location: Green River → Ferron

7:00 AM – 7:30 AM: Registration & Check-In
8:00 AM: Driver’s Meeting
8:15 AM: Ride Staging
8:30 AM: Ride Departs for Ferron

Kick off the expedition riding into the heart of the San Rafael Swell. This route delivers dramatic desert landscapes, winding canyon trails, and wide-open terrain. Expect incredible viewpoints, rock formations, and plenty of opportunities to stop for photos along the way as you make your way to Ferron.

7:00 PM: Group Dinner

Sunday – Arapeen Loop Ride

Location: Ferron / Arapeen Trail System

9:00 AM: Ride Departs

Day two takes you into the mountains on the famous Arapeen trail system. This loop ride offers a completely different experience from the desert—cooler temps, forested trails, elevation changes, and sweeping alpine views. From fast-flowing sections to more technical terrain, this is a full day of diverse and exciting riding.

Return to the lodge in the evening to relax and share stories from the trail.

7:00 PM: Group Dinner & Social Time

Monday – Return Ride to Green River (Alternate Route)

Location: Ferron → Green River

8:00 AM: Ride Staging
8:15 AM: Ride Departs

Wrap up the expedition with a completely different route back to Green River. This final leg brings new terrain, fresh scenery, and one last dose of adventure as you cross back through the Swell on trails you didn’t see on day one.

250 Miles. 3 Days. Desert to Mountains. One Epic Ride.

 

Guided riding

Get ready for an unforgettable UTV expedition through the heart of Utah’s wild and rugged backcountry—where the raw beauty of the San Rafael Swell meets the alpine escape of the Arapeen Trail System.

Your adventure begins in Green River, launching you straight into the vast, untamed terrain of the Swell. You’ll cover 80+ miles of dramatic desert landscape—winding through towering sandstone formations, deep canyons, and endless open vistas that define this iconic off-road destination—on your way to the mountain town of Ferron.

From there, the experience shifts gears. Climb into the cool mountain air and explore the Arapeen Trail System, an optional 75-mile loop that trades red rock for lush forests, aspen groves, and high-elevation views that stretch for miles. It’s the perfect contrast—desert to alpine—all in one trip.

Then it’s back to the Swell. The return ride from Ferron to Green River delivers another 80+ miles of pure off-road freedom—twisting through remote valleys, rugged trails, and some of the most photogenic terrain Utah has to offer.

This isn’t just a ride—it’s a full-throttle journey through two of Utah’s most iconic landscapes. Big miles, diverse terrain, and nonstop scenery—this is the kind of adventure people talk about long after the dust settles.

 

What the package includes

  • Dinner on Saturday and Sunday
  • Guided Ride: Approx. 250 miles off-road ride from Green River to Ferron and back a different way.
  • Guided Ride (Optional) Sunday Arapeen Loop 75 Miles
  • Two nights lodging for two adults in Ferron Utah (Saturday, Sunday)
  • One raffle ticket per entry
  • One event T-shirt per entry
  • One free poker hand per entry

What’s Not Included

  • Friday night hotel room
  • Monday night hotel room
  • Breakfasts
  • Lunches 
  • Fuel

You are responsible for booking your own lodging or RV space in Green River Utah if you plan to stay there on Friday night prior to the event.

Parking Information

TBA

Note: For this event, there’s a gas station in Green River Utah and Ferron Utah where you can fuel up before we leave.

Bring extra fuel with you.

 

What you must bring

Water: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially during off-road adventures. Pack enough water to last you throughout the day.

Spare Tire: Off-road terrain can be unpredictable. Having a spare tire is essential in case of punctures or other tire-related issues.

Spare CVT Belt: A spare Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) belt is essential for UTVs. It's a critical component, and having a spare can save you from being stranded.

Tools: Carry a basic toolkit with tools like wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers, and other essential tools for quick repairs on the trail.

Full Tank of Gas: Before each ride or day, ensure your UTV has a full tank of gas. Off-road trails can be remote, and having ample fuel is a must.

Highly Recommended:

Communication Radios: Communication radios are invaluable for staying connected with your group, especially in areas with limited cell reception. They enhance safety and coordination on the trails.

Cell Phone: While communication radios are essential, bringing your cell phone is still important for emergency situations. Ensure it's fully charged and protected from the elements.

These must-haves and recommendations will help ensure your UTV off-road adventures are safe, enjoyable, and well-prepared for any challenges that may arise during your journey.

Fees

Fees for San Rafael Swell Expedition
ItemPrice
Driver — all days $1,445.00
Guest — all days $1,595.00
Additional passenger (adult) $150.00
Additional passenger (minor) $90.00
Dinner $45.00
T-shirt $25.00
Special use permit $20.00
Late registration — all days $20.00
Late registration — single day $15.00

Prices are per person unless stated otherwise. The total is calculated on the registration form from these figures.

Location

Info coming soon.

Lodging

Info coming soon.

Event flyer

Flyer for San Rafael Swell Expedition

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Weather

Forecast for this area

Before you ride