What's the Big Deal About Hell's Revenge?
If you've seen those crazy videos of Jeeps climbing near-vertical rock faces in the desert, that's probably Hell's Revenge.
It's Moab's most famous trail for a reason - 6.5 miles of slickrock that'll make you question physics.
Here's what nobody tells you though: despite the scary name, Hell's Revenge isn't actually that difficult if you have a good guide. The rocks are grippier than they look, and most of the "oh crap" moments are more about your mind than actual danger.
We've taken thousands of people down this trail, including plenty who were nervous at first.
The Trail Breakdown: What Actually Happens
Getting There
Hell's Revenge starts about 10 minutes from downtown Moab. You'll drive past the Sand Flats Recreation Area entrance (yes, you need to pay the $5 fee even on tours), and then boom - you're on Mars. Or at least it looks like it.
The Famous Obstacles
Hell's Gate
This is the money shot. It's a steep descent between two rock fins that looks absolutely insane from the top. Your brain says "no way," but the tires grip and down you go. Pro tip: it's way less scary as a passenger than as a driver.
Mickey's Hot Tub
Imagine a giant rock bowl that you drive down into and back out of. It's like a naturally-formed skate park for UTVs. Gets its name because it looks like a hot tub, and some guy named Mickey probably discovered it.
The Escalator
A series of ledges you climb up. Each one is just high enough to make you think "is this really safe?" Spoiler: it is.
Tip-Over Challenge
Don't let the name freak you out. It's called that because it LOOKS like you'll tip over. You won't. The angle is an optical illusion.
The Views (The Real Reason to Go)
Between all the rock climbing, you get:
- Panoramic views of the La Sal Mountains
- Colorado River winding through the canyon
- Arches National Park in the distance
- Endless photo ops on the slickrock "domes"
Our Hell's Revenge Tours - What to Expect
Morning Tour (8:30 AM)
Best for:
- Cooler temperatures
- Better photos (morning light hits different)
- Beating the crowds
- Finishing in time for lunch
Sunset Tour (4:00 PM-ish, varies by season)
Best for:
- Golden hour photos
- Cooler evening temps
- Dramatic shadows on the rocks
- Ending your day with a bang
Both tours include:
- 3.5 hours total (about 2.5 hours actual trail time)
- Professional guide who's done this hundreds of times
- All safety gear
- Water and snacks
- The only air-conditioned vehicles on Hell's Revenge (seriously, we're the only ones)
Real Talk: Is It Actually Dangerous?
Look, we're not gonna lie - Hell's Revenge can be intimidating. But here's the truth:
The scary parts:
- Some drops look vertical (they're usually about 30-40 degrees)
- You'll be sideways on slopes sometimes
- There are cliff edges with big drops
- Your brain will tell you this is insane
The reality:
- Modern UTVs are incredibly stable
- The slickrock has amazing grip (like sandpaper)
- Our guides know exactly where to put the tires
- We've never had a serious accident in years of operation
- The trail is actually rated "moderate" not "extreme"
What Makes Our Hell's Revenge Tours Different
Climate-Controlled Vehicles
We're the only company running Hell's Revenge with enclosed, air-conditioned UTVs. This means:
- No dust storms in your face at every vehicle pass
- Actually comfortable in 100-degree heat
- You can hear your guide's instructions
- Your photos won't all have dust clouds
- Grandma can come too
Guides Who Get It
Our guides aren't just drivers - they're teachers. They'll:
- Show you the exact line to take
- Explain why the vehicle won't tip (physics!)
- Know when to push you and when to take it easy
- Tell you the history (like why it's called Hell's Revenge)
- Take photos at spots other tours skip
The Full Experience
Some tours rush through to fit more groups in. We don't. You'll have time to:
- Get out and walk around at viewpoints
- Take photos without feeling rushed
- Actually enjoy the scenery
- Ask questions
- Maybe even drive a section yourself (if you want)
DIY vs. Guided Tour: Should You Rent and Do It Yourself?
Go guided if:
- It's your first time on slickrock
- You want to relax and enjoy views
- You're bringing kids or nervous passengers
- You want the best photo spots
- You don't want to worry about getting lost or stuck
Rent and DIY if:
- You've done Hell's Revenge before
- You have solid off-road experience
- You want to go at your own pace
- You know how to read trail markers
- You're comfortable with recovery techniques
Just know that rental companies won't take you to Hell's Revenge first - you usually need to prove yourself on easier trails.
When's the Best Time for Hell's Revenge?
March-May: Perfect weather, wildflowers, busy season June-August: Hot AF but our A/C makes it doable September-November: Best overall - cool temps, fall colors December-February: Cold but beautiful, snow on mountains
Avoid:
- Right after rain (too slippery)
- Holiday weekends (zoo)
- Midday in summer without A/C (miserable)
How to Book Hell's Revenge Tours
With Epic 4x4 Adventures:
- $125-159 per person
- Morning or sunset options
- Book online or call (435) 260-2206
- 48-hour cancellation policy
- Groups of 4-8 people per tour
Tips:
- Book 2-3 weeks ahead in peak season
- Sunset tours book faster
- Weekdays are less crowded
- Ask about private tours for groups
The Bottom Line on Hell's Revenge
Hell's Revenge Moab is one of those things you'll talk about for years. Yeah, it's a little scary. Yeah, you'll question your sanity at times. But it's also absolutely incredible and way safer than it looks.
If you're on the fence, book a tour with a guide (preferably us with our A/C - you'll thank us in July). If you're experienced, rent a machine and have at it. Either way, don't leave Moab without experiencing Hell's Revenge.
One last thing - despite the intimidating name, we've taken everyone from teenagers to 80-year-old grandparents on this trail. If they can do it, so can you.
