UTV vs. ATV: What's the Difference?

Quick Answer

A UTV (Utility Task Vehicle) is a larger, side-by-side off-road vehicle with seating for multiple passengers, while an ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) is smaller and built for a single rider. Both handle rugged desert terrain, but UTVs give groups more room and a smoother shared ride.

Expedition Kanab's group and private tours run in UTVs, seated side-by-side, up to 6 explorers per vehicle. If you've seen the word "ATV" used loosely in tour descriptions, including some of ours, it's the same style of guided off-road adventure. The vehicles you'll actually ride are UTVs.

What's the Actual Difference Between a UTV and an ATV?

A UTV seats multiple passengers side-by-side, has a steering wheel, foot pedals, and a roll cage, and is built for groups. An ATV is a straddle-seat, single-rider vehicle steered with handlebars, similar to a four-wheeled motorcycle. Both are designed for off-road, rugged terrain, but a UTV trades some of an ATV's nimbleness for the ability to bring your whole crew along in one vehicle.

Which One Does Expedition Kanab Use?

Expedition Kanab's Classic Group and Private tours run in UTVs, not single-rider ATVs. Each UTV seats up to 6 explorers, and tours are priced per vehicle, not per person, so a group of 2 to 6 books a single UTV and splits the cost. Larger groups can book multiple UTVs to keep everyone together on the trail.

Why Do Some Tour Descriptions Say "ATV" Instead of "UTV"?

"ATV" is often used as a catch-all term in the off-road world for any off-road vehicle, the way "Kleenex" gets used for any tissue. You'll see it in casual conversation and on trail signage. Technically, the vehicles used on Expedition Kanab's guided tours are UTVs.

Can I Drive, or Does the Guide Drive?

You get to choose. If you're 21 or older with a valid driver's license, you can drive your own UTV for the tour, with a credit card on file in case of any damage to the equipment. If you'd rather ride along and take in the scenery, your guide is happy to drive while you enjoy the views.

What's the Difference Between a UTV Tour and an Off-Road (Jeep) Tour?

UTV tours put you in the driver's seat of your own UTV. Off-road tours have you riding along with a guide in an off-road vehicle instead. Both cover the same iconic terrain around Kanab, including Peekaboo Slot Canyon and the Great Chamber; the difference is whether you're driving or riding along.

UTV vs. ATV FAQs

Is a UTV safer than an ATV?

Both are built for rugged terrain, but a UTV's roll cage, seatbelts, and side-by-side seating give it a different safety profile than a straddle-seat ATV. Expedition Kanab's UTVs come with helmets and goggles provided, and guides go over safety before every tour.

Do I need a special license to drive a UTV?

Drivers must be 21 or older with a valid driver's license and a credit card on file in case of damage to the equipment.

How many people fit in an Expedition Kanab UTV?

Each UTV holds 1 to 6 explorers depending on the model. Groups larger than 6 can book multiple UTVs to stay together on the trail.

Is the price per person or per UTV?

Per vehicle, not per person. A group of up to 6 books one UTV and splits the cost between them.

Will my tour confirmation say "UTV" or "ATV"?

Either term may appear, but the vehicle you'll ride on an Expedition Kanab tour is a UTV. If you have any doubt before booking, contact the team to confirm.

Ready to Ride?

Whether you call it a UTV or an ATV, the adventure is the same: guided off-road tours through Peekaboo Slot Canyon, the Great Chamber, and the backcountry around Kanab. Explore Expedition Kanab's UTV Adventures and book your tour today.