What Is an ATV Tour?

June 16, 2025

A First-Timer's Guide to Off-Road Adventure in Kanab, Utah


So, what exactly is an ATV tour? Maybe you’ve seen photos of people zipping through red rock canyons in souped-up buggies, kicking up dust, laughing, and living their best life. It looks fun. It looks wild. And now you’re thinking… should I try it?



If you’re even a little curious, the answer is yes. Let’s walk you through what an ATV tour really is and why it might be the best thing you do on your next trip to Southern Utah.

First, What’s an ATV? And What’s a UTV?

ATV stands for All-Terrain Vehicle. These are rugged little machines built to handle dirt, sand, rocks, and all the other good stuff you won’t find on paved roads. So, what is an ATV exactly? It's a vehicle designed to take you off the beaten path and deep into places you wouldn’t reach on foot.

At
Expedition Kanab, we mostly use UTVs (Utility Task Vehicles), which are like the more stable, multi-passenger cousin of ATVs.



UTVs come with seat belts, roll cages, and room for your whole crew. They’re powerful, safe, and ridiculously fun to ride. So when we say “ATV tour,” what we really mean is hopping into a tough little off-road beast and going exploring with a pro guide leading the way.


And in case you're still wondering what is a ATV is, it’s your gateway to an unforgettable backcountry experience.

What Happens on an ATV Tour?

Here’s the deal. You show up at our shop, get checked in, meet your guide, and gear up with helmets and goggles. We’ll go over safety, crack a few jokes, and make sure everyone’s feeling good. Then it’s go time.


Once you’re on the trail, you can expect:


  • Fast, fun rides across red dirt and sandstone trails
  • Winding drives through narrow canyons like Peekaboo Slot Canyon
  • Epic views from remote cliffs and scenic overlooks
  • A ton of stories and facts from your guide that’ll bring the land to life
  • Laughs, wide eyes, and a whole bunch of “Did you see that?” moments


Our most popular tour? That’d be the Peekaboo + Great Chamber Loop. It’s got everything—hidden canyons, towering dunes, and backcountry magic. If you’re only doing one tour, that’s the one to go for.

Is It Safe?

Totally. Our UTVs are built for off-road terrain and are maintained by people who know them inside and out. Every tour is led by trained guides who are certified in safety, and we make sure you’re comfortable before the ride even starts.


You don’t need experience. You don’t need to be an adrenaline junkie. We’ve taken out families with little kids, grandparents, and first-timers who swore they’d never do something “like this.” And guess what? They loved it.


So even if you’re wondering what’s an ATV is or whether what are ATV experiences are safe, you can rest easy—because you’re in good hands.

Why Go on a Guided Tour Instead of Renting?

Great question. If you're the DIY type, it might be tempting to rent an ATV and go exploring on your own. But out here in Kanab, there's a lot of land, and not a lot of signs. A guide doesn’t just keep you safe—they take you to the best spots, share the stories behind the views, and make sure you don’t miss anything epic.


We actually wrote about this exact thing. Check out our blog on Renting vs. Buying an ATV for Off-roading. Spoiler: Guided tours win on just about every front.

Who Should Go on an ATV Tour?

Everyone. Seriously.

Our tours are designed for:

  • Families looking for an adventure to remember
  • Couples who want something more exciting than dinner and a view
  • Solo travelers or friend groups chasing new experiences
  • Nature lovers who want to get deeper into the wild without the hike
  • People who’ve never touched an ATV before

Still on the fence? Maybe you’ve heard some weird stuff about ATV tours. Don’t worry. We’ve tackled all those common myths right here: Common ATV Tour Myths Debunked.

Understanding the Basics: What Is ATV Riding and More?

If you’re asking what is ATV riding, it’s the thrill of maneuvering a powerful vehicle across rugged landscapes, feeling the terrain beneath you, and going places regular cars simply can’t. Whether you call it an ATV, a quad vehicle, or even wonder what is a ATV vehicle, the adventure stays the same—fast-paced, scenic, and unforgettable.


Still unsure what is the ATV experience all about? It's exploring nature in a way that’s part thrill ride, part sightseeing tour, and all fun. Curious minds might even ask what’s an ATV vehicle—it’s that tough little four-wheeled machine designed for dirt, sand, and stories worth telling.

Why Choose Expedition Kanab?

This isn’t just some side hustle for us. Expedition Kanab is rooted in the land. Our founder, Rhees, is a 7th-generation local who grew up exploring these canyons and cliffs with his dad and grandpa. He built this company to share that same wonder with visitors like you.

Here’s what makes us different:

  • Real local guides who know every twist in the trail and every story behind the rocks
  • Top-quality UTVs that are ready for whatever the desert dishes out
  • No-stress planning—we handle the details so you can enjoy the ride
  • Family-friendly energy with safety, fun, and comfort always in the mix
  • A mission that’s all about making happier humans through nature

Whether you want a high-energy adventure, a scenic escape, or just an excuse to get dusty with people you love, we’ve got a tour that fits.

Popular Tours You’ll Want to Check Out

We offer a bunch of options, but here are a few guest favorites:

Peekaboo + Great Chamber Loop

This one’s a showstopper. You’ll hit two of Kanab’s most stunning spots and have time to soak it all in.

Duration: 3.5–4 hours

Starting at: $399


Peekaboo Slot Canyon

Shorter ride, just as much fun. Narrow passageways, amazing rock textures, and fewer crowds.

Duration: 1.5–2 hours

Starting at: $279


Sand Dunes + Sunset

Golden hour in the dunes? Yes, please. Ride, sandboard, and watch the sun drop behind the cliffs.

Duration: 2 hours

Starting at: $299


Kanab Creek Sunset Tour

Cruise through the creek, climb Hog Canyon, and catch the sky lighting up from Red Mesa.

Duration: 2 hours

Starting at: $299

Bottom Line?

An ATV tour is your ticket to a side of Kanab that most people never get to see. It’s not just about horsepower or off-roading, it’s about connecting with the land, feeling that desert breeze on your face, and sharing unforgettable moments with people you care about.



So if you’re ready for something different, something real, and something wildly fun… this is it.

Ready to Ride?

Let’s kick up some dust.


Ready to book your ATV tour? Check out our tours here:

https://www.expeditionkanab.com/atv-tours-kanab-utah

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