Sanitarium
Total Miles
2.2
Technical Rating
Best Time
Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
Trail Type
High-Clearance 4x4 Trail
Accessible By
Trail Overview
Sanitarium is a 2.3-mile point-to-point trail rated 9 of 10 located on the southernmost cliffs of Sand Mountain (Sand Hollow). This is a new trail for the 2024/2025 season. This trail is not for the faint at heart, the inexperienced wheeler, or moderately built rigs. This trail will test the very well-built rigs and rock buggies. At 2.3 miles, it is one of the longest high-rated trails on the mountain. The trail runs through deep washes and across slick rock. You can expect big rocks, steep off-camber climbs, challenging ledges, and steep drops. If your rig has any weaknesses, this trail will find them. Wheel placement is critical for some of the obstacles. Several obstacles have radical turns upon departure that, if you miss, will lead to severe consequences. If unsure about an obstacle, get out and walk it first. Although a small group of experienced drivers will run this trail in 2 to 3 hours, expect larger groups to take the better part of the day. Every rig on this trail should be prepared to recover others and be recovered. The trail has two major sections with a transition point in the middle, which also acts as a bailout point for those not wishing to continue. Cell phone service is limited in this area and may only be available on the high ground. The nearest services are located in Hurricane.
Photos of Sanitarium
Difficulty
The average well-equipped trail rig may have great difficulty in completing this trail. Steps exceeding 60". Steep inclines and declines with off-camber sections being prevalent. Enhanced off road equipment is required including locking devices (front & rear), tall tires (37" plus), maximum ground clearance, tow hooks, and a winch. Minimum wheelbase 100". Excellent driving skills are required. Vehicle mechanical or body damage is likely. Rollovers or broken axles are common and carrying spare parts tools is recommended.
Status Reports
Sanitarium can be accessed by the following ride types:
- High-Clearance 4x4
Sanitarium Map
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