If you're heading to Backcountry Offroad Expo in Hurricane, Utah after Overland Expo West in Flagstaff, the drive north is packed with places worth pulling off the road for. Ancient cliff dwellings, volcanoes, quiet desert trails, and a few hidden spots that make the trip just as good as the destination.
Whether you want to stretch your legs, explore something wild, or spend a night off-grid before the show, here are some great places to stop along the route.
Walnut Canyon National Monument
Just outside Flagstaff, Walnut Canyon National Monument is home to ancient cliff dwellings built by the Sinagua people more than 700 years ago.
The Island Trail loops down into the canyon and passes dozens of preserved homes built directly into the rock walls. It's a short but memorable hike and an easy stop before heading deeper into the desert.
Humphreys Peak
Feeling ambitious? Humphreys Peak is the tallest mountain in Arizona at over 12,600 feet.
The hike is challenging, but the payoff is massive views across the San Francisco Peaks and the high desert beyond. If you're looking to knock out a serious summit before the expo weekend, this is the one.
Sunset Crater and Wupatki National Monuments
These two monuments sit along the same scenic loop northeast of Flagstaff.
At Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, you'll walk through black lava flows and massive cinder fields left behind by a volcanic eruption around 900 years ago.
Just down the road, Wupatki National Monument preserves striking red-stone pueblo ruins scattered across wide desert plains. It's an incredible look at the region's ancient cultures and geology in one stop.
Lake Powell and Page
The town of Page sits right on the edge of Lake Powell, one of the most recognizable landscapes in the Southwest.
Towering sandstone cliffs surround deep blue water, making it a great place to stop for kayaking, boating, or just grabbing a view before continuing north.
Vermilion Cliffs and White Pocket
Vermilion Cliffs National Monument is one of the most surreal landscapes in the region. The area is famous for swirling sandstone formations and colorful desert terrain that rival the famous Wave formation.
One of the best places to explore here is White Pocket, a short hike through wild rock formations that feels like wandering across another planet. High clearance is recommended for reaching the trailhead.
White Domes via Water Canyon Trail
White Domes via Water Canyon Trail is one of those hikes people don't expect to be as good as it is.
The route winds through massive sandstone formations and open desert terrain with huge views the entire way. If you've got time for a proper hike before reaching Hurricane, this one is worth it.
Grafton Ghost Town
Grafton Ghost Town is an old frontier settlement just outside Zion that has become one of the most photographed ghost towns in the West.
It's quiet, a little eerie, and honestly pretty charming. Definitely worth a short stop for photos or a wander through the historic buildings.
Hurricane Cliffs Boondocking
Just outside of town, the Hurricane Cliffs area offers incredible dispersed camping overlooking the red rock landscape.
If you arrive early for the expo and want a quiet spot to post up, this is a favorite for many travelers passing through southern Utah.
Once You Arrive in Hurricane
The Hurricane area is packed with outdoor opportunities. If you come a little early for the expo (or stay an extra day), here are a few places worth checking out.
Quail Creek State Park
Quail Creek State Park is a beautiful reservoir surrounded by desert hills.
You can rent kayaks or paddleboards, swim along the beach areas, or relax near the water. There's also a campground with showers and water if you're looking for a comfortable place to spend the night.
Sand Hollow State Park
Sand Hollow State Park is one of the most popular outdoor recreation areas near Hurricane.
The lake sits right next to massive red sand dunes that are famous for off-roading. There are multiple campgrounds, boat rentals, and plenty of space to explore.
Snow Canyon State Park
Snow Canyon State Park is often described as a quieter version of Zion.
The park features red rock cliffs, lava fields, petrified dunes, and beautiful desert trails without the massive crowds. It's one of the best places in the area for a scenic hike or relaxed afternoon exploring.
Glitter Mountain
At Glitter Mountain you can literally dig for crystals.
For a small fee, visitors get a bucket and tools and can break open the hillside to collect sparkling gypsum crystals to take home. It's a weirdly fun stop and something totally different from the usual hikes.
Dinosaur Tracks Around St. George
Southern Utah is full of prehistoric history.
The St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site at Johnson Farm and nearby desert trackways let you see real fossilized dinosaur footprints preserved in stone.
It's an easy stop and a cool reminder of how ancient this landscape really is.
Kanarra Falls
Kanarra Falls is one of the most photogenic hikes in the region.
The trail follows a narrow slot canyon with small waterfalls and ladders to climb through the rock walls. Expect to get your feet wet and bring water shoes if you go.
Mollie's Nipple Trail
Yes, the name is real.
The hike to Mollie's Nipple is short, steep, and rewards you with huge views over the Hurricane Valley. It's a fun quick hike if you want something close to town.
River Rock Roasting Company
If you need coffee or a solid breakfast before heading out to explore, River Rock Roasting Company is a local favorite.
The deck overlooks a canyon and is one of the best places in town to sit for a while, grab food, and enjoy the view.
Make a Weekend of It
Backcountry Offroad Expo is built around the idea that the outdoor community doesn't just meet inside a venue. It happens on the road, on the trail, and around campfires after the day ends.
If you're traveling up from Flagstaff or arriving early in Hurricane, take advantage of the landscapes around you. There's an incredible amount to explore between the two and even more once you arrive.
Check out all five Backcountry Offroad Expo locations and grab your tickets.
