San Rafael Swell Adventure Guide
Stretching over 200,000 acres of rugged terrain in central Utah, the San Rafael Swell Recreation Area is a geologic wonder shaped by massive upheavals. Its tilted sandstone plates, deep slot canyons, and vibrantly colored badlands attract hikers, canyoneers, OHV enthusiasts, and sightseers alike. Whether you’re navigating the towering cliffs of the Little Grand Canyon or admiring ancient pictographs at Buckhorn Wash, the “Swell” offers countless ways to experience Utah’s harsh desert beauty at its finest.
Destination Details
| Location | Central Utah, near the town of Green River |
| General GPS Coordinates | 38.8041, -110.6896 |
| Management | Bureau of Land Management (BLM) |
| Size | Approximately 217,000 acres (Congressional designation under the 2019 Dingell Act) |
| Nearest Major City | Green River (about 30 miles east); Price (about 50 miles north) |
How to Get to San Rafael Swell
The San Rafael Swell lies west of Green River and south of Price, Utah. From I-70, multiple exits provide access points into the recreation area:
- From Green River, take UT-19 west to meet I-70, then continue to Exit 131 (Hanksville exit) or Exit 149 (Temple Mountain Road), both of which lead into different parts of the Swell.
- From Price, travel south on US-6 to I-70, then head west to your choice of exits.
- For direct access to Buckhorn Wash, consider heading south from Castle Dale via UT-10, then turn onto the well-marked Buckhorn Wash Road.
Most interior roads are unpaved and may require high-clearance or four-wheel-drive vehicles, especially after rain or snow.
Destination Overview
Encompassing soaring sandstone walls, labyrinthine slot canyons, and sweeping desert vistas, the San Rafael Swell Recreation Area presents an array of adventures for those prepared to explore its remote, untamed reaches. Since its federal designation as part of the John D. Dingell Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act of 2019, specific areas have been set aside to preserve ecological integrity.
Popular Sights and Activities
Little Grand Canyon: Perched above the San Rafael River, this iconic viewpoint rivals its larger namesake for striking canyon scenery. The Wedge Overlook offers sweeping views of the canyon.
Buckhorn Wash Pictograph Panel: A must-see for anyone interested in cultural history, the vibrant rock art here reflects thousands of years of human presence.
Cedar Mountain Day Use Overlook: For a panoramic look at the expansive desert landscape, this overlook offers a quick and scenic introduction to the Swell.
Petroglyphs and Historic Sites: Scattered throughout the area, these markings and sites provide glimpses into the region’s prehistoric and pioneer past.
Outdoor Recreation Opportunities
- Hiking & Backpacking: Slot canyons and winding washes offer both casual day hikes and more ambitious multi-day treks.
- Mountain Biking: Certain sections of designated trails and roads cater to sturdy bikes capable of handling rocky, sandy terrain.
- Canyoneering: Technical routes abound, requiring proper gear and experience.
- Overlanding: This is a terrific area for vehicle-based adventure travel.
- Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Riding: While many newly designated Wilderness areas prohibit motorized vehicles, OHVs are permitted on specific routes (Coal Wash, Devil’s Racetrack, etc.) that thread through designated corridors.
- Horseback Riding & River Running: Equestrians and river runners will find ample room to roam, especially near the San Rafael River.
Wilderness Areas and OHV Restrictions
Surrounding the San Rafael Swell Recreation Area are multiple wilderness areas, including Devil’s Canyon, Muddy Creek, Little Wild Horse Canyon, and others.
These zones protect delicate ecosystems and cultural sites, and OHV use is closed in these wilderness sections. However, four identified routes remain open to OHV travel, including Coal Wash (North and South Forks), Devils Racetrack, and Justensen Flat, ensuring opportunities for motorized exploration while preserving key wilderness habitats.
