Sand Hollow Reservoir OHV Trail

The Sand Hollow Reservoir OHV Trail is located within Sand Hollow State Park. You can find parking at various access points within the park. The main entrance to Sand Hollow State Park will lead you to designated parking areas suitable for accessing the trail. Always check park signage for the most current parking regulations.

Yes, as the trail is located within Sand Hollow State Park, an entrance fee is required to access the park. This fee typically covers day use for vehicles. You can find current fee information and any specific permit requirements for activities within the park by visiting the official Utah State Parks website.

Generally, dogs are permitted on trails within Sand Hollow State Park, including the OHV trails, but they must be kept on a leash. Always ensure you clean up after your pet and carry enough water for both yourself and your dog, especially given the desert environment.

The best time to hike the Sand Hollow Reservoir OHV Trail is typically during the cooler months, from late fall through early spring (October to April). During these periods, temperatures are more moderate, making for a more comfortable hiking experience. Summers can be extremely hot, so if you hike then, start very early in the morning and carry ample water.

The terrain is quite varied and unique. You'll encounter soft, red sand, rolling sand dunes, and striking red sandstone formations, often called slickrock. Hikers should be prepared for rocky patches, sandy washes, and dirt roads. The surfaces can range from loose sand to solid rock, so sturdy footwear is recommended.

While many OHV trails in the area are rated easy for vehicles, hiking this 12-mile route with an elevation gain of 1,696 feet (517 meters) is considered moderate. The varied terrain, including soft sand and rocky sections, adds to the challenge. Hikers should be prepared for a longer trek and be mindful of vehicle traffic.

The trail offers breathtaking panoramic views. You'll enjoy vibrant red sandstone contrasting with the blue waters of Sand Hollow Reservoir. Distant views often include the majestic cliffs of Zion National Park, the Pine Valley Mountains, Warner Valley, and even the Arizona Strip. The landscape is dotted with intriguing rock formations and vast desert canyons.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Renegade Trail, Wayne's World & Razzle Dazzel Trail, and the West Rim Trail. These intersections are primarily part of the larger Sand Mountain OHV Area network.

Given the desert environment and varied terrain, it's crucial to bring plenty of water, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), sturdy hiking boots, and snacks. A map or GPS device is also advisable, as trail markings can sometimes be geared towards OHV users. Be prepared for changing weather conditions.

Hikers should be aware that this is an active OHV area, meaning you will likely encounter off-highway vehicles. This can result in rougher, rutted surfaces and requires hikers to be vigilant of vehicle traffic. While the area is vast, always stay aware of your surroundings and yield to vehicles. The trails are primarily designed for OHVs, so some sections might be less ideal for foot traffic.

Due to its 12-mile length and moderate difficulty for hiking, the full Sand Hollow Reservoir OHV Trail might be challenging for younger children or families not accustomed to longer desert hikes. However, families can enjoy shorter, easier sections of the trail or other designated hiking areas within Sand Hollow State Park. Always assess your family's fitness level before embarking on the full route.