UNHINGED MODE · The Legend

San Rafael Swell UTV + Goblin Valley — Castle Dale, UT

Destination: Castle Dale, UTNights: 3Group: 4–8Season: March, April, May, September, October, NovemberEstimated: $1,300–$2,200/person

The San Rafael Swell is Utah's least-known canyon system — 75 miles of slot canyons, hoodoo fields and reef trails between Castle Dale and Goblin Valley State Park. Side TRAX Rentals supplies four-seat Polaris RZR XP 1000s; the Behind the Reef Trail and Wedge Overlook are the picks. Goblin Valley night hike under International Dark Sky stars on day two. Decompression: a soak at Crystal Geyser cold-water tower and a rim drive at Capitol Reef NP before flying out of Salt Lake or Grand Junction.

What You'll Do

Atv

Hiking

Scenic Overlook

Where You Sleep

· Swell Retreat (Castle Dale Hipcamp)
· Goblin Valley State Park yurts
· Capitol Reef Resort (Torrey)

Where You Eat

· Maglebys Fresh (Castle Dale)
· Stan's Burger Shak (Hanksville)
· Slackers Burger Joint (Torrey)

Questions

Permit?

Most BLM trails are free; OHV registration required. Side TRAX handles paperwork on rentals.

Closest airport?

Salt Lake (SLC) is 3 hours; Grand Junction (GJT) is 3 hours; both work for the loop. SLC has more service.

Heat?

Avoid July-August (105°+ at midday). March-May and Sept-Nov are the windows.

Ready to book the story?

Five quick questions, then we build the full itinerary — lodging, daily schedule, dining, bars, the group-chat message — and drop you into a Trip Room you can share with the crew.