Four-Wheeling in Arches National Park

With thousands of acres of nearby Bureau of Land Management lands to enjoy, it's hardly necessary to use the park's limited trails for four-wheel adventures. You can, however, go backcountry in Arches on the Willow Flats Road and the Salt Valley Road—just don't set out for this expedition without first stopping at the visitor center to learn of current conditions. The Salt Valley road is very sandy and requires special driving skills.

Outfitters and Expeditions

Coyote Land Tours. The imposing Mercedes Benz Unimog trucks (which dwarf Hummers) of this tour company take you to parts of the backcountry where you could never wander on your own. They offer technical tours (challenging drives over and through imposing rock formations, washes, and assorted obstacles), plus tamer sunset excursions, and camp-style ride-and-dine trips. They stand by their money-back "great time" guarantee. 435/259-6649. www.coyotelandtours.com.

Highpoint Hummer & ATV Tours & Rentals. "Moab's backcountry is our church," says enthusiastic, wilderness-loving owner Lori McFarland. Along with husband Scott, the family has operated High Point Hummer & ATV since 1996. Tour the backcountry in open-air Hummer vehicles, ATV's, dirt bikes, or dune buggy-like "side-by-sides" that sit up to six people. They love families and small, intimate groups, and they offer horseback rides and canyoneering as well. 281 N. Main St., Moab, UT, 84532. 435/259-2972 or 877/486-6833. www.highpointhummer.com.