TORCH TRAIL REVIEW #007 | BENTONITE HILLS (HANKSVILLE, UT)
For the seventh installment of our TORCH Trail Review series, we’re heading to a landscape that feels less like the American West and more like the surface of another planet. We’ve teamed up with off-road enthusiast Jordan Van Calster (@jordansvc) to scout the vibrant, multi-colored Bentonite Hills of Utah.
Located near the Cathedral Valley district of Capitol Reef National Park, the Bentonite Hills are a masterclass in geology and one of the most visually rewarding off-road destinations in the country.
TRAIL OVERVIEW
The Bentonite Hills are famous for their banded mounds of clay, revealing deep purples, reds, and blues that look almost painted onto the earth. While the area is a photographer's dream, it also offers a unique driving experience through rolling mounds and sandy washes that demand constant attention to the terrain.
THE TERRAIN
The terrain here is rated as an Easy to Moderate (3/10), but that rating comes with a major caveat. The ground is composed of soft bentonite clay, formed from volcanic ash that becomes extremely slick and adhesive when wet.
The "Death Mud" Warning: Please be aware of this important safety tip. If there is rain on the forecast, stay away. When bentonite clay gets wet, it transforms into a thick, adhesive mud that can become completely impassable, even for well-built 4x4 vehicles.
THE EXPERIENCE
Driving through the Bentonite Hills is a surreal experience. The trail often feels more like a Mars exploration mission than your typical desert run.
Blue Hour Magic: To see the hills in their full glory, timing is everything. While they look impressive during the day, the colors truly "glow" during the blue hour (just after sunset or before sunrise). This is when the deep purples and blues become vibrant, creating their distinctive "Mars on Earth" look.
Cathedral Valley: The hills are a highlight of the larger Cathedral Valley Loop. If you have the time, we highly recommend continuing through the loop to see the iconic Temples of the Sun and Moon formations.
Drone Opportunity: Because portions of this area lie on BLM land (outside National Park boundaries), drone use may be permitted. Always verify current regulations and guidelines before flying.
TIPS FROM THE SCOUT
Check the Skies: We cannot stress this enough—check the weather or stop by a ranger station in the area before heading out. A light drizzle can turn a fun afternoon into a recovery nightmare.
Traction Management: The clay is soft and fluffy when dry, which can lead to some floating sensations at speed. Keep your momentum steady in the sandy washes.
Leave No Trace: This ecosystem is fragile. Stay on existing tracks to avoid crushing the delicate crust and scarring the landscape for future visitors.
SUMMARY STATS
Location: Near Hanksville / Cathedral Valley, UT
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (3/10 in dry conditions)
Terrain: Soft bentonite clay, sandy washes, rolling hills
Distance: Variable (as part of the larger Cathedral Valley Loop)
Rig Requirement: High-clearance 4x4
Best Time: Blue Hour (Sunrise/Sunset)
THE VERDICT
The Bentonite Hills are a bucket-list destination for any overlander who values scenery as much as the drive. It’s a relatively short trek from Hanksville, but it offers a level of geological beauty that is truly unmatched. Just remember to respect the weather, bring your camera, and make sure your rig is ready for soft desert terrain.
Big thanks to @jordansvc for scouting this otherworldly landscape for us! Check out his channel for more incredible Utah trails.
Planning a desert expedition? Ensure your rig has the clearance to handle the terrain. Shop Upgrades for your Toyota 4Runner or browse our range of Suspension Lift Kits.
Want to be featured in an upcoming review? Drop us a comment or message us @torchoffroad and stay tuned for the next trail in our series!
