If you’re visiting Bryce Canyon National Park and craving a bit of adrenaline and adventure, off-roading through Dixie National Forest should be at the top of your list. Just outside of Bryce Canyon, Bryce Wildlife Adventure offers ATV rentals that let you explore the area on your own terms—no guided tours required.
For us, the freedom to chart our own course was a huge selling point. After a quick safety briefing and some tips from the owner, we were off, roaring down a 33-mile trail that weaved through the stunning landscapes of Dixie National Forest.
To Get There
Dixie National Forest is located in southern Utah, stretching across parts of Washington, Iron, and Garfield counties. It’s easily accessible from nearby Bryce Canyon, Zion National Park, and the town of St. George, making it a great stop for nature lovers exploring the region.
Map to: Bryce Wildlife Adventure to rent ATVs or UTVs.
When to Go
The best time to visit Dixie National Forest is late spring through early fall (May to October) when the trails are accessible, wildflowers are in bloom, and temperatures are pleasant for outdoor activities. Fall is particularly stunning, with vibrant foliage adding a splash of color to the landscape.
Off-Roading in Dixie National Forest
The trails were well-marked, though we did get turned around once. Thankfully, it wasn’t hard to find our way back, and even the detour was part of the fun! We zipped through meadows filled with vibrant yellow wildflowers, soaking in the serenity of the backcountry. The sound of the engine mixed with the rustling of leaves made for a thrilling yet peaceful experience.
The highlight? Without a doubt, spotting an entire herd of antelope bounding across our path. It felt like something out of a nature documentary, and for a moment, we just stopped and marveled at their grace and speed.
The trail continued through dirt paths lined with towering pines, eventually opening up to an incredible overlook. The contrast of the red sand against the deep green forest was absolutely breathtaking. A bit further on, we stumbled upon a large, tranquil lake—an unexpected surprise that felt like a reward at the end of our ride.
In total, we spent about three hours exploring. The best part? The trails were nearly empty, giving us the sense that we had the entire forest to ourselves.
More to Explore at Bryce Wildlife Adventure
After returning the ATVs, we decided to check out the natural history museum located on-site at Bryce Wildlife Adventure. This museum is massive and filled with an eclectic collection of taxidermy animals. It’s the kind of place that might surprise you with its scale and variety, making it well worth a visit.
Outside, they’ve created a small animal experience where you can feed donkeys and deer—a perfect way to wind down after the excitement of the trails.
Off-roading in Dixie National Forest is an intimate way to connect with the diverse landscapes and wildlife of the Bryce Canyon area. The freedom to explore at your own pace, the chance encounters with animals, and the sheer beauty of the scenery make this a standout experience.
So, if you’re heading to Bryce and looking for something beyond the usual hiking trails, I highly recommend renting an ATV and hitting the backcountry. Whether you’re a seasoned off-roader or a first-timer, this is a ride you won’t soon forget.
Have you gone off-roading in Dixie National Forest? Share your experience in the comments!