UTV OFFROAD ADVENTURES HOSTED
PINES & PEAKS SXS ADVENTURE
July 17–19, 2026 | Bellemont, Arizona

Story and photos by Kim Krause

Our second annual Pines & Peaks SXS Adventure was one for the books. What started as an incredible event last year grew even bigger this year with 70 SXS.

Our home base for the weekend was Village Camp RV Resort in Bellemont, Arizona, located in the beautiful high country west of Flagstaff. Bellemont sits at approximately 7,100 feet in elevation, surrounded by pine forests, volcanic landscapes, and wide-open mountain terrain that make Northern Arizona such an incredible place to explore.

From the moment everyone arrived, the scenery set the tone for the weekend. Participants stayed at the resort, dispersed camped, or stayed at nearby hotels, but everyone came together for two incredible days of exploring some of the most beautiful terrain in the area.

FRIDAY NIGHT — CHECK-IN AND THE START OF THE ADVENTURE

Friday night kicked off at the Village Camp clubhouse with check-in, catching up with old friends, meeting new ones, and getting everyone ready for the weekend ahead.

There was already plenty of excitement in the air as everyone prepared for two full days of exploring the high country.

With 70 cars divided into three groups, we designed the weekend so everyone could experience both incredible routes. On Saturday, one group headed toward Sycamore Falls, Sycamore Point, and Williams, while the other two groups explored Kendrick Mountain and the lava caves. On Sunday, the groups switched routes, allowing the two groups that had ridden the lava cave route to experience Sycamore Falls and Williams, while the group that had visited Sycamore Falls on Saturday headed toward Kendrick Mountain and the lava caves.

DAY ONE — SYCAMORE FALLS, SYCAMORE POINT AND WILLIAMS

On Saturday, one group headed toward Sycamore Falls, Sycamore Point, and Williams, covering approximately 91 miles of beautiful forest roads and trails.

The weather was perfect for riding. The monsoon rains kept the temperatures comfortable, kept the dust away, and left behind puddles and muddy roads that made the trails even more fun. The rain also transformed the landscape, leaving the pine forests incredibly green and bringing life to the normally drier terrain.

One of the major highlights of the day was Sycamore Falls.

The monsoon rains had the falls flowing, and they were absolutely spectacular. It had been a while since the falls had been flowing like this, making the timing of our adventure even more special. Water rushing over the rock, green pine trees surrounding the area, historic old cabins, and the rugged landscape created a truly incredible experience.

From there, we made our way to Sycamore Point, where the views were absolutely stunning. The overlook provides a breathtaking look into the rugged Sycamore Canyon country, with the forested high country stretching out around it.

Lunch with that view was pretty hard to beat.

After lunch, the rain came and went, leaving behind muddy roads, puddles, and even greener scenery as we continued through the high-country trails.

Along the way, we saw an incredible variety of wildlife, including antelope, deer, wild turkeys, wild horses, elk, and cattle.

The route continued toward Williams, a historic Northern Arizona town surrounded by pine-covered mountains and the Kaibab National Forest. Williams is famous for its Route 66 history, historic downtown, railroad heritage, and its connection to the Grand Canyon.

We made a pit stop at Historic Brewing Co. and, as we made our way into town, drove past Williams Reservoir before enjoying some time in the historic town.

And then came one of the weekend's funniest moments. One rider apparently didn't see the very large "WRONG WAY" sign in Williams and headed right past it.

Later, during one of our stops, that same rider was taking a phone call when he accidentally keyed up his radio, so the entire group got to hear the conversation.

By the end of the night, he was unanimously awarded the Dumbass Award for his day's adventures and then went on to win the poker pot.

You just can't make this stuff up.

The other two groups spent their Saturday exploring Kendrick Mountain and the lava caves, experiencing the beautiful high-country trails, mountain scenery, and volcanic landscape.

SATURDAY NIGHT — DINNER, POKER, RAFFLES AND AWARDS

After a full day on the trails, everyone came together for a group dinner and a night of fun.

We had poker cards turned in, raffles, awards, plenty of laughs, and a whole lot of fun as everyone shared stories from the day's adventures. There was even a band playing, adding to the atmosphere and making it the perfect way to end an incredible first day.

It was a great night of good food, great people, music, laughter, and memories that will last long after the dust and mud have washed off the machines.

DAY TWO — THE ROUTES SWITCH

On Sunday, the groups switched routes. The two groups that had explored Kendrick Mountain and the lava caves on Saturday headed toward Sycamore Falls, Sycamore Point, and Williams. The group that had ridden the Sycamore Falls route on Saturday headed toward Kendrick Mountain and the lava caves.

After rain throughout the night, the second day brought some of the best riding conditions imaginable: wet roads, perfect temperatures, muddy trails, and breathtaking high-country scenery.

The Kendrick Mountain and lava cave route covered approximately 90 miles, taking riders through a completely different variety of Northern Arizona terrain.

The trails climbed through beautiful pine forests and aspen groves, past grazing cattle and historic old cabins, and into the higher elevations of the mountain country.

The elevation reached approximately 8,000 feet, with stops at Saddle Mountain at around 8,800 feet and another overlook at approximately 8,500 feet, where riders enjoyed an incredible 360 degree view of the surrounding mountains and forest.

One of the highlights was hiking into the lava caves with flashlights.

The area is part of a landscape shaped by Northern Arizona's volcanic history, making the lava caves a unique and unforgettable part of the adventure.

The trails were wet and muddy from the overnight rain, but the conditions were perfect for riding. The cool temperatures, green pine forests, golden and green aspen trees, mountain roads, and incredible views made this day absolutely unforgettable.

Deer made several appearances along the trail, and a few late-afternoon sprinkles added just enough moisture to keep the trails beautiful.

THE PEOPLE MAKE THE ADVENTURE

The trails, waterfalls, mountains, wildlife, and scenery were incredible, but the people are what truly make these weekends special.

We had participants travel from all over, including our farthest travelers from Ohio, approximately 1,800 miles away.

Our oldest participant was 81 years old, and she was an absolute rock star. She proved that adventure has no age limit and inspired everyone around her.

From Friday night's check-in to the final miles on the trail, the 2026 Pines & Peaks SXS Adventure was everything an off-road adventure should be: beautiful forest roads, flowing waterfalls, muddy trails, volcanic landscapes, high-elevation mountain views, incredible wildlife, historic towns, great food, live music, lots of laughter, and an amazing group of people.

70 SXS, more than 100 people and 181 miles of adventure. Elevations reaching approximately 8,800 feet. 2 incredible days of riding. Countless memories.

Thank you to everyone who joined UTV Offroad Adventures for our second annual Pines & Peaks SXS Adventure and helped make this year's event even bigger and better than the first.

We can't wait to see what next year brings.

www.utvoffroadadventures.com

#UTVOffroadAdventures #PinesAndPeaks #SXSAdventure #BellemontArizona #ArizonaOffRoad #SycamoreFalls #SycamorePoint #KendrickMountain #LavaCaves #WilliamsArizona #Route66 #UTVLife #OffRoadAdventure #RideWithUs

Photos and story by Kim Krause

UTV Offroad Adventures – 2026 Grand Staircase SXS Experience
May 22–25, 2026
Big Water ➡ Escalante ➡ Big Water, Utah

What an unforgettable 3-day adventure through some of the most scenic terrain in Southern Utah.

Friday kicked things off in Big Water, Utah, a small desert town near Lake Powell surrounded by dramatic red rock landscapes and endless off-road terrain. Riders checked in at the Rodeway Inn & Suites before gathering for a meet-and-greet social to connect with fellow adventurers from across the country and prepare for an epic weekend on the trails.

Riders traveled from all over including Georgia, Illinois, California, Texas, and beyond.

DAY 1 – GRAND STAIRCASE-ESCALANTE NATIONAL MONUMENT

35 SXS machines split into two groups under sunny skies and perfect 75-degree weather for an incredible 90-mile ride through Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

The day delivered everything:
• Hoodoos
• Sand washes
• Flowy scenic trails
• Big hill climbs with breathtaking views
• Cottonwood Canyon’s stunning rock colors and towering green trees
• Pine forests climbing to 7,000 feet elevation

Along the route, the group passed an old abandoned cabin nestled into the towering canyon walls, a striking reminder of the rugged isolation and history of this landscape.

One of the highlights of the day was Grosvenor Arch, an impressive double sandstone arch rising dramatically from the desert floor. Surrounded by towering cliffs and colorful canyon walls, it made the perfect lunch stop and photo opportunity for the group.

The ride continued through smooth flowing trails with amazing panoramic views before making the descent into Cottonwood Canyon where colorful layered rock formations and lush green trees created a completely different landscape from the open desert earlier in the day.

We even had a few trail-side repairs and recovery moments with three breakdowns that added to the adventure and teamwork of the trip.

That evening the group rolled into Escalante, Utah — a small western-style town surrounded by some of the most beautiful backcountry terrain in the country and known as a gateway to adventure. Riders enjoyed dinner at Showhouse before checking into the Prospector Inn for the night.

DAY 2 – HELLS BACKBONE & BOULDER

Another incredible day exploring higher elevations with cooler 68-degree temperatures and climbs over 9,000 feet.

The trails brought:
• Tall pine forests
• Colorful mountain views
• Scenic overlooks for miles

The route toward Boulder, Utah delivered breathtaking scenery with lush green valleys, towering pine trees, and cooler mountain air that felt completely different from the desert terrain below.

Lunch at Burr Trail Grill was a hit before cruising back along Utah’s famous Highway 12 — considered one of the most scenic highways in America with massive overlooks, colorful cliffs, and winding mountain roads.

After the ride, everyone gathered for a fun hotel parking lot party where riders relaxed, shared trail stories, checked out each other’s machines, enjoyed some laughs, and got the chance to really get to know one another after two incredible days on the trails. It was the perfect way to unwind before heading to dinner, raffles, poker, and awards with the group.

Awards included:
• Farthest Traveler – Covington, Georgia
• Youngest Rider – 9 years old
• Oldest Rider – 71 years old
• “Dumbass Award” winner for accidentally putting water in his fuel tank

DAY 3 – RETURN TO BIG WATER

After breakfast and fuel-up, the group checked out of Escalante and headed back toward Big Water for one final day packed with incredible scenery and unforgettable trail riding.

The first stop was Devils Garden — a surreal landscape filled with twisted sandstone formations, towering hoodoos, arches, and unique rock shapes that looked straight out of another planet. It was the perfect place to stretch the legs, explore, and grab some incredible photos.

From there, Left Hand Collett Trail led the group to a beautiful slot canyon featuring towering walls, water crossings, and dramatic overhangs that created an incredible lunch stop and photo opportunity.

They also encountered a remote cave, holding what appeared to be ancient Native American ruins. Pausing there, it was easy to imagine how this landscape once provided shelter, travel routes, and survival for people long before modern exploration.

The ride continued along to Smoky Mountain Road where the group stopped to see the famous “smoke holes” — vents in the ground where smoke still rises from naturally burning underground coal seams deep beneath the surface. The area felt wild, remote, and unlike anywhere else on the trail.

Next came the steep descent down Kelly Grade, one of the most exciting sections of the trip. The narrow switchbacks dropped riders from high elevation down toward Glen Canyon with massive panoramic views overlooking the rugged desert landscape below.

From there, the group reached a decision point and split for the final scenic leg: continue through Crosby Canyon Road or take the Alstrom Point option for a higher-elevation panoramic overlook of Lake Powell and the surrounding canyon country.

The Alstrom Point group climbed to one of the most iconic overlooks in the region, taking in sweeping, high-elevation views of Lake Powell, dramatic cliff lines, and endless desert horizons.

The Crosby Canyon group descended through a narrow and beautiful canyon corridor lined with incredible sandstone formations and natural rock sculptures carved through the canyon walls. As they made their way toward Lake Powell, it was striking to see that portions of the road now exposed were once underwater — a reminder of how low the lake levels have become over the years. This group reached the shores of Lake Powell where one lucky dog enjoyed cooling off with a swim after an epic 98-mile day on the trails.

Both groups eventually made their way back toward Big Water.

After soaking in the final views, it was a short ride back to the Rodeway Inn in Big Water where the 2026 Grand Staircase SXS Experience officially came to an end.

www.utvoffroadadventures.com

If you missed this one, join us next May 20–23, 2027 for the Grand Staircase Expedition 2-Night UTV Expedition.

UTV OFFROAD ADVENTURES PRESENTS: OUTLAWS & OVERLOOKS UTV ADVENTURE

May 8–11, 2026 | Apache Junction to Young, AZ

Hosted by UTV Offroad Adventures

Story and Photos by Kim Krause

UTV Offroad Adventures took 30 riders and 15 SXS machines on an unforgettable three-day journey from the desert landscapes of Apache Junction deep into the mountains of central Arizona to the beautiful Cherry Creek Lodge in Young.

Nestled in the pine trees and surrounded by rolling meadows, Cherry Creek Lodge became our home for the weekend. We filled the entire lodge with our group, creating the perfect atmosphere for an off-road getaway packed with adventure, laughter, and great company. The ranch-style hospitality was second to none, with the lodge providing breakfast, lunch, dinner, activities, and a relaxing place to unwind after long days on the trail. Between the campfires, games, horseback rides, skeet shooting, peaceful mountain scenery, and amazing hospitality, it was the perfect destination for our crew.

Guests traveled in from California, Texas, Oklahoma, and all across Arizona to experience this incredible ride together.

The adventure kicked off Friday night with check-in and laughs at Los Gringos Locos. Guests picked up swag bags and event t-shirts while mingling with old friends and making new ones before gearing up for three epic days of riding through some of the most scenic and historic terrain Arizona has to offer.

Saturday morning we staged out from Apache Junction under 90-degree desert skies. After the drivers meeting, the group hit the trail, rolling into a route packed with everything an off-roader could ask for — rocky climbs, sweeping washes, flowing roller-coaster roads, and endless mountain views. The desert was alive with color as towering saguaros framed the trail alongside rolling hills and rugged peaks.

We crossed near the Salt River along Bush Highway where paddleboards, kayaks, tubers, horseback riders, and weekend adventurers lined the water. Passing Saguaro Lake and the stunning Four Peaks Wilderness, the group climbed steadily toward cooler pine country.

After reaching elevations near 5,700 feet, breathtaking views of Roosevelt Lake opened up below us before we dropped into Tonto Basin for lunch and fuel at the legendary Butcher Hook Café.

Along the trail we stopped at an old cabin tucked back in the pines, a perfect reminder of Arizona’s rugged history and the generations who once lived deep in these mountains long before off-road adventures brought us through the area.

The afternoon ride tested both drivers and machines with steep loose hill climbs, rocky switchbacks, and technical terrain before climbing once again into the pines around 5,800 feet. Along the way we spotted grazing cattle, deer, and even wild horses approaching the lodge at sunset. After 110 miles on the trail, everyone settled in for dinner, campfires, games, and stories under the stars.

Sunday slowed the pace just enough to soak in the history and beauty surrounding Young. Some riders relaxed at the ranch while others explored Graveyard Canyon, tied to the infamous Pleasant Valley War. The Pleasant Valley War was one of the most violent and infamous range wars in Arizona history, taking place in the late 1880s and early 1890s in the area around Young, which was then known as Pleasant Valley.

The ride featured old homesteads and gravesites dating back to 1887, dramatic canyon views at Croach Creek Canyon that felt straight out of the Grand Canyon, Cunningham Falls, rocky switchbacks, rolling hills, and water crossings. Wildlife sightings included a large gopher snake along the trail.

The ranch activities brought out everyone’s competitive side with horseback rides, skeet shooting, and more. Sunday night wrapped up with awards, laughs, and stories — including recognition for our oldest rider at 71 years young and guests who traveled from as far away as Oklahoma and Panama. One of the most memorable moments of the night was the infamous “Jackass Award,” presented to a rider who forgot his machine was in reverse, backed into another SXS, and rolled his own machine. Thankfully nobody was hurt, and it quickly became one of those stories that will probably live on forever around future campfires.

Monday morning the crew fueled up and hit the trail by 8:15 for the 135-mile journey home along a completely different route. We spotted a coyote crossing the trail, colorful mountain landscapes, cattle grazing with calves, and wild horses standing in green meadows.

Lunch at Finch's Waterfront Restaurant overlooking Roosevelt Lake was the perfect break before heading onto the historic Apache Trail — one of the most scenic drives and off-road routes in the Southwest. Winding through rugged canyon walls and dramatic desert landscapes, the Apache Trail connects some of Arizona’s most beautiful lakes including Roosevelt Lake, Apache Lake, Canyon Lake, and Saguaro Lake. Every turn delivered postcard-worthy views of sparkling water, towering cliffs, desert blooms, and mountain scenery that reminded us why Arizona is such a special place to ride.

We pulled off along the lake for a group photo opportunity, and with temperatures climbing, several riders couldn’t resist jumping into the water to cool off before continuing down the trail. It turned into one of those spontaneous moments that perfectly captured the fun and camaraderie of the trip.

We rolled past Canyon Lake and made our final stop in the iconic Tortilla Flat.

From desert heat to cool pine forests, technical climbs to flowing trails, historic landmarks to unforgettable friendships — Outlaws & Overlooks 2026 was one for the books.

Check out www.utvoffroadadventures.com for upcoming events and future rides!

Until the next ride… keep the dust flying!

Red Rock Rumble Experience

Story and Photos by Kim Krause
UTV Offroad Adventures Presented
Kanab, Utah
April 10–12, 2026

What happens when 80 SxS machines and 150 adventure-seekers roll into one of southern Utah’s most scenic red rock towns? You get a full-throttle weekend of dust, laughs, and unforgettable memories—the Red Rock Rumble Experience.

Hosted by UTV Offroad Adventures, this weekend event brought energy and excitement to the small but iconic town of Kanab. Hotels filled, RV parks packed, and the streets buzzed with the sound of machines and stories. From the moment people rolled in, you could feel it—this was going to be a good one.

Friday – Kickoff & Check-In

The weekend officially kicked off Friday at Giff's Barbecue, where guests checked in, grabbed their ride assignments, and started connecting with fellow riders. With great food, cold drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere, it was the perfect place to gear up for the adventure ahead.

Home base for the weekend was the historic Parry Lodge—a classic Kanab landmark known for its Hollywood roots and laid-back charm. It became the central hub for stories, laughs, and planning each day’s ride.

Saturday & Sunday – Ride Days

With perfect weather setting the tone, riders split into groups led by three experienced leaders each day. The routes delivered everything you’d expect from southern Utah—diverse terrain, jaw-dropping views, and just enough challenge to keep things exciting.

Each day featured different loops ranging from 80–100 miles round trip, offering riders new terrain and fresh perspectives.

Scenic Ride 1 Highlights

• Peekaboo Canyon
• Hoodoos and sweeping overlooks
• The legendary Great Chamber
• Hidden Lake

Scenic Ride 2 Highlights

• Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
• “Hell Dive”
• Belly of the Dragon
• Lower Barracks Trail

From tight slot canyons to wide-open dunes, Kanab delivered the kind of terrain that keeps riders coming back year after year.

Saturday Night – Food, Fun & Shenanigans

After a full day on the trails, the group regrouped Saturday night back at Giff’s for a well-earned dinner and a whole lot of laughs.

The evening included awards, raffles, poker hands, and some unforgettable moments:

• Oldest Rider: 77 years young and still riding strong
• Farthest Traveled: One rider flew in from Tennessee just to ride with a buddy
• “Dumb Ass” Awards (x2):
• One rider nearly jump-started his machine, only to realize it was still in drive
• Another had a rollover in the sand dunes with no injuries, just a story to tell

It was the kind of night that perfectly summed up the weekend—fun, relaxed, and full of good people who don’t take themselves too seriously.

Why Kanab?

There’s a reason Kanab is known as “Little Hollywood.” Located in southern Utah near the borders of Arizona and Nevada, Kanab sits in the heart of some of the most iconic landscapes in the American Southwest. It’s just a short drive from Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, and the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, making it an ideal basecamp for off-road adventures.

Surrounded by endless trail systems, Kanab offers direct access to red rock canyons, sand dunes, and high desert terrain—all within minutes of town.

But beyond the scenery, it’s the small-town vibe that makes it special. Friendly locals, walkable streets, and a welcoming atmosphere made this group feel right at home—even as the group filled the town for the weekend.

The Red Rock Rumble Experience wasn’t just another ride—it was a reminder of what these weekends are all about: great people, epic places, and stories that last long after the dust settles.

www.utvoffroadadventures.com

Valley Vistas Mesquite Caliente Experience

Story and Photos by Kim Krause
📍 April 2–5, 2026
Hosted by UTV Offroad Adventures Group

What started as a cool, breezy morning in Mesquite, Nevada turned into an unforgettable 3-day, 2-night off-road journey through some of the most diverse and breathtaking terrain Nevada has to offer. The Valley Vistas Mesquite Caliente Experience truly lived up to its name—taking riders from low desert valleys to high alpine vistas and everything in between.

Town Highlights Along the Route

Mesquite
Mesquite is where desert adventure meets resort comfort. Nestled along the Arizona–Nevada border, it’s known for its wide-open desert valleys, striking sandstone backdrops, and welcoming resort energy. As our starting point, it set the perfect tone for the ride ahead—sunny skies, open terrain, and that early excitement before the miles begin to unfold.

Caliente
Caliente is one of Nevada’s best-kept secrets, tucked into a dramatic transition zone where desert gives way to lush, high-elevation forest. Known for its railroad history and quiet small-town charm, it served as the perfect overnight stop after a full day of changing terrain. It’s the kind of place where the pace slows down, the stars feel closer, and riders can truly take in the journey.

Pioche
Pioche is rich with Old West history and rugged character. Once a booming mining town, it still carries that frontier feel with landmarks like Boot Hill Cemetery and the historic courthouse perched above town. Today, it offers sweeping views, wild horse sightings, and a reminder of Nevada’s untamed past—making it an unforgettable mid-ride destination.

Day 1 – From Desert Floor to Mountain Pines

We rolled out of CasaBlanca Resort at 8:30 AM under sunny skies, 60° temps, and a bit of wind—perfect riding weather. With 26 SxS machines lined up, the excitement was high as we headed toward Caliente.
Our first stop: the iconic tri-state point—Arizona, Utah, and Nevada all in one spot. From there, the terrain began to transform quickly:
• Sandy washes dotted with Joshua trees and cactus
• Climbing elevations into striking red rock formations
• Twisty, technical trails mixed with fast open desert stretches

As we gained elevation, the landscape shifted dramatically—lush green trees appeared around 4,500 feet, eventually leading us into pine forests and rolling hills above 5,700 feet. Temperatures dropped into the high 50s with a chilly wind as we zigzagged through mountain switchbacks along Pine Canyon Dam Road. Along the way, we even spotted cattle grazing in the hills.

After logging 100 miles, we rolled into Caliente and checked into the Shady Motel—an absolute gem with spotless rooms and incredibly welcoming staff. Evening rides to Side Tracks for dinner made for the perfect end to the day, with great food and even better hospitality.

Notable Awards:
• 🏆 Jack Ass Award: Earned within the first 10 miles (yes… wrong mode + sand = winch time 😅)
• 🌎 Farthest Traveler: Texas
• 🎂 Oldest Rider: 80 years young

Day 2 – History, Horses & High Desert Flow

Saturday’s ride took us north toward the historic mining town of Pioche—and what a ride it was.
The terrain delivered:
• Fast, flowy sections through green mountain landscapes
• Tight, technical trails weaving through dense trees
• Multiple wild horse sightings (highlight of the day!)

We rolled into Pioche for lunch at the Silver Café—called ahead and they had everything ready for us. Great food, great service, and a perfect group stop.

We explored:
• Boot Hill Cemetery
• The Million Dollar Courthouse
• Pioche overlook with sweeping views of the town

With temps warming up to 76°, we even spotted snow still sitting on distant mountain peaks—a reminder of just how diverse this ride truly was.

The return via the Silver State Trail delivered more tight, tree-lined switchbacks and—again—wild horses crossing our path. The group fueled, spruced up, and reconvened at Side Tracks for another amazing group dinner, raffles, and poker winners.
Total: 90 miles of pure adventure.

Day 3 – Above the Trees & Back to the Desert

We kicked off the final day with breakfast at Side Tracks before heading toward Ella Mountain.
Morning temps hovered around 60° as we climbed into:
• Tight, technical trails through thick forest
• Rocky washes and challenging terrain sections
• Dense green tree corridors that felt miles away from the desert

As we climbed past 7,400 feet, we broke above the tree line—revealing incredible panoramic views from the Ella Mountain lookout. From there:
• Water crossings
• Pine forests and the Clover Mountains
• A hidden small cabin tucked in the hills

Then came the dramatic descent—back down to desert terrain around 1,700 feet. The temperature climbed, and the terrain shifted once again to loose rock and sandy washes, bringing the ride full circle.

Final Day Mileage: 90 miles

Why This Ride Stands Out

This wasn’t just a ride—it was a full-spectrum off-road experience:
• Desert sands → red rock → alpine forest → high mountain vistas
• Temperatures ranging from cool mountain air to warm desert sun
• Wildlife sightings, historic towns, and unbeatable camaraderie

From the energy of Mesquite to the charm of Caliente and the rich history of Pioche, this ride captured the essence of Nevada’s hidden backcountry.

Until Next Time…

The Valley Vistas Mesquite Caliente Experience proved once again what UTV Offroad Adventures Group is all about—exploration, connection, and unforgettable rides through landscapes most people never get to see.

If you missed this one… you missed something special. But don’t worry—there’s always another adventure waiting.

🔥 Ride. Explore. Experience. 🔥
🌐 www.utvoffroadadventures.com

Story and Photos by Kim Krause

UTV Offroad Adventures | Cactus Crawl – AJO UTV Run
January 30 – February 1, 2026

A huge thank you to the American Legion Post 10 in Ajo for hosting and supporting our Cactus Crawl event. Their long-standing role in the community as a gathering place for veterans and locals alike made our weekend extra special, and we truly appreciate their hospitality and support.

The Cactus Crawl in Ajo, Arizona was a weekend to remember.

Ajo is a small historic mining town nestled in the Sonoran Desert, located about 130 miles southwest of Phoenix and approximately 40 miles from the Mexico border. Nearby towns include Why (10 miles), Gila Bend (40 miles north), Lukeville, and Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. Rich in copper-mining history, Ajo is also known for its Spanish-style architecture and historic churches, including Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, a long-standing centerpiece of the town. Deep Mexican and Native American influences shape the culture and character of the community.

Event highlights:

• 80 miles of riding on Saturday
• 50 miles of riding on Sunday
• 80-degree desert weather
• 21 UTVs riding together as one group
• Hosted alongside the Chu-Chu Club (American Citizens Social Club)

Saturday – East Side Ride

Saturday took us to the east side of Ajo, riding near the Barry M. Goldwater Range (Ajo East), outside of active military operations. The terrain offered a perfect mix of history and classic Sonoran Desert riding:

• Pipeline Road
• Endless saguaros
• Flowy trails and washes
• Old corrals and expansive mountain ranges
• A hill climb that tested both machines and drivers
• Train tracks and a switch shack
• Incomplete rock houses scattered through the desert
• Historic military remnants including old vehicles, tanks with missiles, and a concrete “mushroom” table with a fire pit

Wildlife sightings included antelope. Riders traveled from as far as Virginia, we celebrated our oldest participant at 79 years young, and Lee Banning was crowned the poker run winner.

Saturday evening concluded with a traditional Mexican dinner hosted by the Chu-Chu Club. During dinner, we held awards, a raffle, and announced the poker winner. A portion of the proceeds was donated to the Ajo High School Scholarship Fund, supporting the local town that welcomed us so warmly.

In a rare and proud moment, no Dumb Ass Award was handed out on Saturday — a true testament to solid riding and good decision-making.

Sunday – West Side Exploration

Sunday’s 50-mile ride showcased a completely different landscape on the west side:

• Organ Pipe cacti lining the trails
• Twisting, flowy desert routes
• Sandy sections and wide sand washes
• Windmills, water tanks, and horse corrals
• Passed by a cemetery in the desert
• A massive turquoise-colored rock tied to local Ajo lore and the town’s history, including stories of a well-known town thief

While no awards were officially handed out on Sunday, it’s worth noting that someone could have received the Dumb Ass Award for forgetting to fuel up before the ride — a repeat recipient of this prestigious honor.

At the conclusion of Sunday’s ride, the group convened at Fat Cactus at the Plaza in Ajo for refreshments, conversation, and one last chance to relive the weekend together.

This run was about more than just miles — it was about history, community, adventure, humor, and giving back while exploring one of Arizona’s most unique desert regions.

For more info visit:
www.utvoffroadadventurtes.com

Photos & Story by Kim Krause

UTV Offroad Adventures launched the first event of the 2026 season January 16–18, 2026, in the scenic desert surrounding Welton, Arizona, near the Barry M. Goldwater Range. This area of southwestern Arizona, close to the U.S.–Mexico border, is rich in military history, rugged terrain, and vast desert landscapes that are especially beautiful this time of year.

Base camp was hosted at Naked Dates Farm in Welton, AZ, providing an incredible home base for Friday check-in, Saturday and Sunday morning ride staging, ride returns, and the Saturday night banquet featuring dinner, raffles, awards, and more.

The event welcomed 35 side-by-sides and guests from Texas, California, and beyond, split into two ride groups for safety and variety. Participants completed both rides over the weekend—one on Saturday and one on Sunday.

Ride One

Ride One followed a scenic desert route through the heart of the Barry M. Goldwater Range, with numerous stops throughout the day to explore historic military sites and old desert mines while taking in expansive views of the surrounding landscape. Along the way, the group visited multiple aircraft crash sites, including an F-14A Tomcat, as well as tanks, an old military training camp, missiles, and helicopters—offering a fascinating look into the area’s military history. Riders also spotted wild rams perched on the rocky hillsides, a highlight for many. Baker’s Tank was just one of many stops along the route, a historic rainwater-collecting tank with a nearby round stone fireplace designed to accommodate multiple hearths for cooking.

Ride Two

Ride Two traveled south toward the U.S.–Mexico border wall, providing riders with a unique photo opportunity at the wall itself and a chance to take in the scale, craftsmanship, and striking presence of the structure set against the desert landscape. The route continued through the rugged Woodcutter’s Pass / Dripping Spring trail, featuring rocky terrain and incredible views. Riders stopped at the historic La Fortuna Mine, one of the area’s most productive gold mines dating back to the late 1800s, where rich quartz veins once produced significant gold and helped shape early mining in the region. The ride showcased the beauty of the desert and all it brings at this time of year—mild temperatures, wide-open views, and the quiet grandeur of the Sonoran Desert.

Lodging & Atmosphere
Naked Dates Farm provided amazing hospitality and a fun, relaxed atmosphere, complete with a live band in the background, a fire pit, great food, and their famous date shakes, brews, and more.
Guests stayed on-site in tents, RVs at the farm, or nearby at the Microtel Hotel.

Awards Presented at the Saturday Night Banquet:

• Farthest Traveler Award: Guest from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
• Oldest Rider Award: A rider in his 80s, proving adventure has no age limit
• The Infamous “Dumb Ass Award” featuring a gold donkey trophy, awarded to a side-by-side that left its assigned ride group and followed the wrong one. Despite attempts by UTV Offroad Adventures to contact chase and redirect them, the rider continued with the other group—only realizing the mistake after returning to base camp.

With warm, beautiful weather, unforgettable scenery, and great camaraderie, the weekend was an incredible start to the 2026 season.

See you at our next adventure!

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