Rocky Sandbox Loop

Trail Overview

Come and explore the Red Cliffs Recreation Area. This track takes you east of Backdoor to Babylon, in the shadow of the red cliffs this area is famous for, and loops through some deep sandy areas mixed in with some rocky areas. It will get you close to the hiking trail that goes to Sandstone Mountain, but you can't drive clear to it. You skirt along some of the private property. The rock formations are fantastic. The views are spectacular. This area is known for Desert Tortoises, so be on the lookout for them. If you're hiking in this area during the spring, summer, and fall, watch out for rattlers. They're here. Bring lunch, bring your hiking poles, and bring your camera...this loop will not disappoint! There are a couple of steep little inclines/declines to go over because the wash is full of obstacles, but it's nothing technical or difficult. This trail accommodated our 72" SXS easily. It's common to see horseback riders in this area, too, so beware. This recreation area also includes hikes to the Old Toquerville Mine, Sand Cove, and the Arch. The Virgin River runs down through the bottom of this recreation area where you can picnic on the shore or throw in a fishing line. Truly, this area has it all. To find this trail, from Leeds or Toquerville, take North Old Highway 91 to Northeast Access Red Cliffs Recreation Area. Follow Northeast Access to where it merges with Backdoor to Babylon. From Backdoor you can access either end of this track. Other featured trails in this area include Red Cliffs Rec Area to Virgin River, Red Cliffs Hidden Canyons View, Backdoor to Babylon Trail, Backdoor to Babylon Loop, Backdoor to Babylon Wash, Northeast Access Red Cliffs Rec Area, and Dead End Leeds Overlook. Starting Feb 2023, Utah began enforcement of its new law, which requires an online education course for all off-roaders. The free course is available online. Google "Utah OHV Education Course," and the free test will pop up. It's an easy test that will only take 15-30 minutes, and it's required for all off-roaders, Jeeps, SXSs, dirt bikes, and ATVs. Kids under the age of 18 will have to take the Youth Education Test at the same site. After completing the test, print out the certificate to carry with you which shows you completed the course. We have taken it, and it's really no big deal. Good reminders about trail etiquette and trail preservation.

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Difficulty

Short steep inclines and declines, deep sand in areas, easy rocky areas to cross. Washes will be running after a heavy rain or spring melt.

Technical Rating