Hell's Revenge

Hell's Revenge is the trail that made Moab off-roading famous. The 6.5-mile loop climbs and descends steep sandstone fins in the Sand Flats Recreation Area, with panoramic views of the Colorado River, Arches National Park, and the La Sal Mountains the whole way.

The named obstacles — the Hot Tub, the Escalator, Hell's Gate — are all optional, but the main route itself is genuinely challenging: sustained slickrock climbs approaching 45 degrees, off-camber ledges, and descents that feel far steeper from the driver's seat than they look from below. Slickrock offers phenomenal traction when dry, which is what makes grades like these possible at all.

This is also the signature trail for Moab's guided Hummer and UTV tours, so expect company. A high-clearance 4WD with low range is the minimum; lockers help on the optional obstacles.

Staging area is just past the Sand Flats Recreation Area entrance station, about 10 minutes from downtown Moab via Sand Flats Road (follow Mill Creek Drive east). Pay the day-use fee at the entrance booth. Trail starts directly across from the staging area — look for the painted dashes on the rock.

The route is a 6.5-mile loop marked with painted symbols on the slickrock. Allow 2-4 hours. All major obstacles (Hot Tub, Escalator, Mickey's Hot Tub, Hell's Gate) are optional spurs off the main loop — walk them first before attempting. Not recommended for full-size trucks or vehicles with long wheelbase overhangs.