Curated route · grounded by Trailblazer
San Rafael Reef — Behind the Reef Road
- Region
- San Rafael Swell, Utah
- Difficulty
- Difficult
- Distance
- 64 km
- Surface
- Sand, slickrock, and rough two-track
- Technical
- 4WD high-clearance; deep sand sections
- Season
- Spring & Fall
Provenance
BLM: BLM Price Field Office — San Rafael Reef; travel on BLM-designated routes only. Dispersed camping per BLM Utah travel management.
About this route
A rugged run along the back (west) side of the San Rafael Reef, linking the Temple Mountain area north along the base of the tilted sandstone fins. Deep sand, slickrock benches, and washboard reward a capable 4WD rig; airing down is essential and a second vehicle is wise. No services, water, or fuel — the reef is remote and cell coverage is nonexistent. Spectacular reef-and-desert scenery the whole way.
Legal Camps
Behind the Reef — Dispersed Pullouts ✓ Verified
Why it's legal: BLM Price Field Office — San Rafael Reef back side; dispersed camping in previously-used pullouts along the designated route only.
Sandy pullouts tucked against the reef. Exposed; bring shade and plenty of water. Stay on the designated route — surrounding lands include sensitive areas.
Temple Mountain — Dispersed ✓ Verified
Why it's legal: BLM Price Field Office — Temple Mountain Road corridor; dispersed camping in established sites near the old mining district. Camp on durable surfaces only.
Popular staging area at the south end of the reef. Historic uranium-mining district — do not enter old mine adits. Pack out all waste.
Generate a grounded plan
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