Papa Smurf

Traveling east to west and carving its way across the front side of Sand Mountain, through a maze of steep sandstone ledges, vertical waterfalls, and narrow ravines, Papa Smurf is a technical trail with a relentless sequence of obstacles. This trail begins off the East Fenceline road and starts somewhat slow with a few wedge obstacles to get your feet wet before dropping you into the top of Arrowhead Canyon, where you begin the constant barrage of obstacles. Dropping into Arrowhead Canyon is a point of no return. Whether you continue on or turn around, the only way out is up a steep, curving slickrock canyon wall. The route continues threading through deep slickrock canyons where precise tire placement and throttle control are essential. Several climbs are near vertical, demanding both articulation and momentum, while the off-camber transitions challenge even experienced drivers to keep all four tires grounded. After traveling close to The Chute, the trail plots a course through several tight ravines with another onslaught of wedge and pinchpoint-type waterfalls, before casually ending along a plateau that leads to The Fallen, Sand Dune Way, or back to The Chute.

Papa Smurf's terrain alternates between grippy slickrock and loose, sandy shelves with little traction. Lockers and rock sliders are essential on this trail. Drivers should expect potential body contact, off-camber leans, and the need for a winch or spotter assistance on select obstacles.

About Sand Mountain

Sand Mountain is an extremely unique parcel of public land. Designated as an Open OHV Area, riders are free to make their own trails. Due to this, many of the long-established named trail routes have several variations that can take easier or more challenging routes through the intended trail. The GPX track for this trail helps you navigate the area, but various lines, bypasses, and additional obstacles may exist along the way. Riders are encouraged to stay on existing trails and not unnecessarily drive over or destroy vegetation.

Fees

Riding on Sand Mountain is entirely free. However, there are multiple entry/exit points for the area, including "the tunnel," which connects Sand Hollow State Park to the open OHV area. Any entry into the boundaries of Sand Hollow State Park requires a Utah State Park Pass.

Requirements

When operating on Sand Mountain, users must attach an orange or red safety flag to the vehicle, rising at least 8 feet off the ground.