9 Things You Need To Consider When Planning a Utah Overland Trip | Resource Guide

Utah is an overlander’s paradise with its stunning landscapes, rugged trails, national parks, and diverse terrain that ranges from desert canyons to alpine mountains. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to plan your Utah-based overland adventure:

1. Define the Trip Scope and Duration

• Trip Length: How much time do you have? Is it a weekend trip, a week-long adventure, or a month-long expedition? This will impact how far you can travel and how many areas you can explore.
• Type of Adventure: Will you be focusing on off-roading, camping, hiking, Decide on your priorities, whether it’s the high desert - mountain pass or red rocks.
• Route & Destinations:
  • National Parks: Zion, Arches, Canyonlands, and Bryce Canyon are famous. They’re perfect for exploring by vehicle, with opportunities for hiking and camping.
  • Off-Road Trails: Utah offers world-class off-roading in places like Moab (including famous trails like Hell’s Revenge and Fins and Things), San Juan County, and the Fishlake National Forest.
  • Scenic Byways: Utah has some incredible scenic byways such as the Scenic Byway 12 (The All-American Road) and US-89, which will lead you through amazing vistas.

2. Route Planning and Navigation

• Route Mapping:
  • Use apps like Gaia GPS, AllTrails, or Google Maps to plan your route. Mark must-see locations and make sure to check road conditions, especially for remote areas where roads might be impassable due to weather or seasonal closures.
  • Consider a loop that takes you through key areas like Moab, Arches National Park, Zion National Park, and Canyonlands. The Canyonlands Backcountry route is another great option for a remote off-road experience.
  • Check Utah’s BLM (Bureau of Land Management) website or other local government websites for trail maps, access restrictions, and road closures (especially for off-roading or seasonal conditions).
• Road Conditions & Accessibility:
  • 4x4 Trails: Some trails require 4x4 vehicles, and others are passable only in certain seasons. The Fins and Things trail in Moab is a great example of a challenging 4x4 route.
  • Seasonal Considerations: Utah’s high desert climate means that summer can be extremely hot, while winter can bring snow to the higher elevations (especially in Cedar Mesa, Fishlake, and the Wasatch Mountains). Research the weather conditions in advance and plan accordingly.

3. Vehicle Prep for Utah's Terrain

• 4x4 Vehicle: Utah’s remote areas are often best explored in a 4x4. If you're planning to venture off the main highways, your vehicle needs to handle rocky, uneven terrain and desert tracks.
  • Make sure your vehicle has the necessary ground clearance and a good tire choice for off-road conditions.
  • Tires: Off-road tires are highly recommended if you’ll be tackling dirt trails or rocky paths. Carry a spare tire and tire repair kit and a compressor.
• Mechanical Check-Up: Perform a full check-up on your vehicle, including:
  • Oil, brakes, tires, suspension, and filters.
  • A portable jump starter, toolkit, and recovery gear (winch, recovery straps, high-lift jack, traction boards, etc.).
• Off-Road Equipment: Ensure you have high-lift jacks, shovel, and jack stands in case you need to make repairs or adjustments in remote areas.
• GPS & Maps: Download offline maps (using apps like Gaia GPS or Maps.me) in case you lose signal in the backcountry. A physical map of Utah’s wilderness and national parks is also a good backup.

4. Camping and Outdoor Gear

• Camping Style: Will you camp in established campgrounds or go dispersed (backcountry) camping? Utah offers both, with plenty of National Forest campsites, BLM land for dispersed camping, and state parks with established campgrounds.
• Essential Gear:
  • Tent. Roof top tent or ground tent, Both have pros and cons
  • Sleeping Bag & Pad (bring a sleeping bag suitable for the season’s temperatures)
  • Cooking Equipment: A portable stove, cookware, utensils, and extra fuel. Don’t forget the campfire permits where applicable.
  • Water: Ensure you have enough water
  • Clothing: Pack for varied conditions. Even in the summer, temperatures can drop at night, especially at higher elevations.
  • Hot Desert: Light, breathable clothing (think desert sun protection like hats and long sleeves).
  • Cool Nights: Warm layers and a fleece jacket, especially if camping in areas like Fishlake or the Wasatch Mountains.
  • Sturdy Boots: You may do a lot of hiking in canyons, so waterproof and supportive footwear is crucial.

5. Safety & Communication

• First-Aid Kit: A comprehensive first-aid kit that includes:
  • Bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, blister care, tweezers, and any personal medications.
  • Sunscreen and lip balm (Utah's sun can be intense).
  • Insect Repellent, especially near water or canyons where bugs are prevalent.
• Emergency Communication:
  • Satellite Phone or Satellite Messenger: Cell service is limited, especially in remote areas like Bears Ears National Monument or Grand Staircase-Escalante.
  • Personal Locator Beacon (PLB): For emergency tracking and rescue, a PLB or a device like the Garmin inReach is crucial in case of an emergency.
• Roadside Assistance: While AAA and similar services may cover common vehicle breakdowns, roadside help in remote Utah areas can be slow, so you must be self-sufficient.

6. Permits, Fees, and Regulations

• Camping Permits: Many areas in Utah (especially in national parks and wilderness areas) require camping permits. Always check in advance if you need to reserve a spot.
• Off-Roading Permits: Some off-road trails, especially in areas like Moab, require a 4x4 permit. This may apply to the Hells Revenge Trail and other backcountry routes.
• National Park Fees: Parks like Arches and Zion have entrance fees. The America the Beautiful annual pass ($80) covers most national parks.
• Fire Restrictions: Fire bans can occur in dry months (usually summer and fall). Make sure you check local regulations for campfire restrictions before your trip.

7. Budgeting and Cost Considerations

• Gas and Fuel: Utah’s remote areas often have long stretches without gas stations, so plan fuel stops accordingly. A full tank of gas should last you a long time in the desert, but keep an eye on fuel levels. It's a good idea to carry backup fuel in a jerry can or other mountable fuel storage containers whenever traveling into remote areas.
• Park & Camping Fees: Entrance fees to national parks or state parks and camping fees can add up. Research campgrounds and the costs beforehand.
• Food and Water: Stock up on non-perishable food items, especially if you plan to camp in remote areas. Consider a cooler for perishables and ice. Make sure to use durable camping storage containers to keep food dry, fresh, and protected from wildlife.

8. Backup Plans and Flexibility

• Alternate Routes: In case a trail or road is impassable, plan alternative routes, especially in areas prone to floods or snow.
• Emergency Funds: Set aside an emergency fund for vehicle repairs, unplanned stays, or any unforeseen events.
• Communication: Always keep a family member or friend informed about your route, and check in periodically, especially when venturing into remote areas.

9. Enjoy the Adventure!

• Leave No Trace: Practice “Leave No Trace” principles, particularly in Utah’s delicate desert and wilderness environments. Respect the land, pack out all trash, and stay on designated trails.
• Capture the Experience: Bring a camera or GoPro to document your trip, from the striking landscapes of Canyonlands to the epic sunsets in Arches.