Red Rock Country
Get ready for an unforgettable experience that takes you beyond the ordinary and immerses you in the true spirit of the wild.
May 29 - June 2
$2950
Arrive Wednesday night 5/28 in Grand Junction
32 hours of total saddle time, 833 Miles, Intermediate skills
Embark on a thrilling adventure motorcycle journey through some of the most rugged and scenic landscapes of the American West. Experience the breathtaking beauty of Unaweep Canyon, often referred to as "Mini Yosemite" for its striking resemblance to California's iconic Yosemite Valley, with towering cliffs and a twisting road that winds through spectacular terrain.
From there ride over the northern edge of the La Sal Mountains and skirt the northern boundaries of Arches National Park before heading on into the San Rafael Swell, a vast geological wonder that offers a maze of canyons, rock formations, and hidden gems waiting to be explored. We stop to take in the jaw dropping views from the Wedge Overlook where the Colorado Plateau stretches out before you in a stunning array of colors and shapes.
We will explore the canyons of the Swell, and the Red Canyon Loop and on past Factory Butte before venturing into the remote Dirty Devil area, part of the incredible Canyonlands, where the isolation and beauty of the landscape will leave you in awe.
As we depart the Canyonlands area, and cross the Colorado River again, we head for the spectacular views of Dark Canyon and Bears Ears on our way to the adventure motorcycle retreat of the off-grid 3 Step Hideaway.
This is not just a ride—it's a step back in time. Learn about the uranium mining boom that once brought fortune and hardship to the region as we investigate a bunch of abandoned uranium mining areas on our return journey to Grand Junction.
What sets this adventure apart is the fully supported off-road motorcycle experience, where you’ll travel through some of the most remote and untouched areas of the desert West. Forget hotels and crowded campsites—this is about sleeping in the backcountry, cooking and sharing delicious meals, and truly disconnecting from the modern world.
Get ready for an unforgettable experience that takes you beyond the ordinary and immerses you in the true spirit of the wild.
Day 1: Grand Junction, CO to Arches National Park Northern Edge
The adventure begins as we depart from Grand Junction, CO, riding through the stunning Unaweep Canyon, where dramatic rock walls rise up on both sides. The canyon, a natural wonder, offers a ride that combines awe-inspiring views with thrilling pavement. We’ll continue our journey as we tap into our first dirt roads and ascend John Brown Road, gaining elevation and taking in the sweeping vistas of the La Sal mountains. Then we’ll descend into Onion Creek, which winds its way through a picturesque canyon and past incredible rock spires and multiple fun small stream crossings.
As night falls, we’ll set up camp on the northern fringes of Arches National Park, where the desert landscape stretches out under a star-filled sky. Overlooking incredible rock formations, this first camp offers a glimpse into the wild beauty of the Utah backcountry.
~ 145 Miles, 10:00 Departure from Grand Junction
Day 2: Green River, Wedge Overlook, Eagle Canyon, Family Butte
Day 2 begins with a quick dash into Green River, where we’ll stop to refuel and prepare for a day of epic adventure. From here we head out to the Wedge Overlook, a breathtaking viewpoint where the vastness of the San Rafael Swell unfolds before us. The views from the Wedge are unparalleled with layers of rock formations and sweeping canyons stretching as far as the eye can see.
Next, we’ll venture through Eagle Canyon, a thrilling descent through a narrow gorge, under the famous I-70 overpasses and incredible scenery that will keep your head on a swivel! We pop out at the historic Swasey’s Cabin and we’ll make our way to the second night’s camp perched on a stunning buttress overlooking Family Butte. This camp offers a true Utah wild landscape, with a perfect vantage point to take in the raw beauty of the surrounding terrain.
After a day filled with off-road challenges, breathtaking views, and the camaraderie of fellow riders, you'll sleep under the stars, fully immersed in the wilderness of the West. This remote and unforgettable spot will make Day 2 a highlight of the journey.
~ 150 Miles
Day 3: Uranium History, Red Canyon, Factory Butte, Gunsight Butte
On Day 3 we dive into the rich and eerie history of the region, starting right out of camp with a journey past Temple Mtn and the Temple Wash area, festooned with pictographs and a combination of ancient history with more modern ranching history. As we explore this desolate and fascinating terrain, we’ll pass through the Wild Horse Mesa, a vast and windswept plateau offering sweeping views of the land below and giving you the feeling you have landed on Mars.
From there we’ll ride down to Factory Butte, a striking and isolated landform, before heading to Moon Overlook, a stunning viewpoint where the horizon seems to stretch on forever. These are the types of landscapes that define the rugged beauty of Utah’s wild frontier.
We’ll stop in the quirky town of Hanksville for a refuel before continuing our journey into the heart of the Dirty Devil River region. Here we’ll face the challenge of fording the Dirty Devil River, an axle deep romp that tests our riding skills and sense of adventure. Once across we’ll blaze a trail through the dramatic terrain of Hatch Canyon, eventually arriving at the edge of the Maze area—an incredible camp spot surrounded by red rock formations and wide open vistas. This remote location will be a perfect setting for an unforgettable night under the stars.
~128 Miles
Day 4: Hite Marina, Dark Canyon, Bears Ears, 3 Step Hideaway
On Day 4 we continue our journey through the vast wilderness of southern Utah, heading towards the Hite Marina area. Here, we’ll cross the mighty Colorado River, taking in the views of the river’s rugged path through the canyonlands.
Passing by the Dark Canyon Wilderness Area, a secluded and beautiful region that offers stunning views of deep, shadowed
canyons and distant peaks and on into the heart of the Bears Ears National Monument, a sacred and rugged landscape known for its cultural significance and striking rock formations. As we ride through this expansive wilderness, you'll be surrounded by towering cliffs, mesas, and the incredible natural beauty of one of Utah’s most iconic areas.
After passing through Blanding, we head over the Abajo Mtns and down into Monticello before our journey will culminates at 3 Step Hideaway, our final night’s camp. Nestled in the heart of this beautiful landscape, it is a little piece of the old “Wild West”, with three of the buildings and the old root cellar dating back to the 1890’s. In 2002, a refurbishment project began, additional buildings were added and today 3 Step Hideaway is a unique off-grid haven nestled on the CO/UT border for exploring the wide open spaces of the area. It is the perfect place to reflect on the incredible adventure we’ve had as we camp beneath the stars, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Utah wilderness.
~186 MIles
Day 5: Return to Grand Junction via Uranium Mining History and the Uncompahgre Plateau
On Day 5 we begin the return leg of our journey, leaving behind the stark beauty of southeastern Utah and heading back toward Grand Junction, Colorado. The day starts with a ride through some of western Colorado’s uranium mining history, where remnants of this once-thriving industry can still be found amidst the rolling hills and rugged terrain. As we explore these historic areas, you’ll gain insight into the stories of those who lived and worked in this harsh, remote region. Along the way, we’ll tour through Paradox Valley, a unique geological feature as this valley is one of the few places in the world where a river actually flows across a vast, expansive canyon. The valley is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and mesas, and the river's presence is an impressive anomaly, making it an incredible stop for those with a love for both geology and the unique landscapes of the American West.
From there we will head up and over the Uncompahgre Plateau, a dramatic transition from the desert landscapes we’ve been immersed in for the past few days. The Uncompahgre Plateau is a stunning contrast with the desert, offering lush meadows, dense aspen groves, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The cool air and vibrant green landscapes will be a refreshing change after the arid expanses of southern Utah—a perfect way to ease back into civilization.
As we approach Grand Junction, we’ll leave behind the rugged wilderness and return to the comforts of town, but not before one last dining experience that will cap off the adventure in style.
224 Miles, Arrive Grand Junction 5:30
Minimum Gas Range per tank necessary - ~ 195 miles
While we will make every effort to ensure this is the route we follow for your trip, we reserve the right to alter the route due to road/trail conditions/closures, weather conditions, rider ability, timing, safety, etc. Please remember the variables that none of us can control and prepare yourselves! We look forward to sharing an adventure with you.