The Complete Guide to Trail Hero 2025 in Hurricane, Utah

From September 29 through October 4, 2025, off-roaders from across the country will descend on Hurricane, Utah, for one of the most unique and community-driven events in the off-road world: Trail Hero. This year marks Trail Hero’s 10th anniversary, and it continues to be one of our favorite events.

This isn’t just a trail riding event—it’s a week that blends rock crawling, world-class motorsports, concerts, vendor expos, and a deep commitment to land-use advocacy and community outreach. Veterans, special needs riders, families, and off-road diehards all come together on the red rock and sand dunes of Sand Hollow for a once-a-year gathering that keeps getting bigger and bigger.

If you’ve never been, buckle up. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Trail Hero—from registration and lodging to trails, charity programs, and pro tips—so you can know what to expect and have a great experience.

What You’ll Find in This Guide

• What Is Trail Hero?

• Where It All Happens

• What to Expect at Trail Hero

• 2025 Trail Hero Schedule

• Vehicle Requirements and Trail Ratings

• Camping & Lodging Options

• Food & Local Attractions

• Charity & Community Programs: Become a Hero

• Trail Hero Music Fest & Vendor Show

• FAQs

What Is Trail Hero?

Trail Hero is a week-long off-road event designed around one core mission: to celebrate motorized access to public lands and protect it for future generations. Founded by enthusiasts with over twenty years of off-road industry experience, Trail Hero ties together the off-road community, local businesses, and advocacy groups to fight back against land closures.

Each year, the event spotlights charitable efforts like Hero For A Day, 4 Wheel to Heal, and the Utah 4 Wheel Drive Association, raising funds to keep trails open and accessible. Veterans, special needs participants, and public service providers are front and center—because for many, 4WD vehicles aren’t just recreation; they’re a lifeline to experiencing the outdoors.

Trail Hero’s motto says it best: Become a Hero. By volunteering, donating, or simply taking part in trail rides and events, attendees directly contribute to keeping off-roading alive.

Where is Trail Hero Held: Hurricane, Utah

At the heart of Trail Hero is Sand Hollow State Park, a 20,000-acre off-road mecca in Southern Utah. Picture massive dunes, red rock climbs, tight canyons, and wide-open vistas—terrain ranging from mild to wild, with new trails still being discovered and cut. Truly a vast unique variety of terrain.

The host city of Hurricane (locals say “Hur-a-kin”) is just minutes away and couldn’t be more off-road friendly. Hotels, RV parks, grocery stores, gas stations, and restaurants all cater to the off-road crowd. It’s also a prime hub for exploring Zion National Park (25 miles away), Snow Canyon, or even the North Rim of the Grand Canyon.

And for 2025, Trail Hero has a new home base at the Washington County Fairgrounds, where camping, vendor expos, and the music fest all happen—putting you right in the middle of the action.

What to Expect at Trail Hero

Trail Hero is more than trail rides. Each day is packed with a mix of guided trail rides, various competitions, charity events, and nighttime entertainment. Here’s the big picture:

• Guided Trail Rides: 150+ trails from beginner-friendly to buggy-only, with staging each morning at various Hurricane locations, the Water Tanks, Fairgrounds, and more.
  

• Motorsports Events: Trail Breaker Challenge, Roxxzilla SXS Shootout, Rock Crawls, and more.
  

• Trail Hero Music Fest: Three nights of live music (Oct 2–4) under the Southern Utah sky, featuring country and rock bands.
  

• Vendor Show: With over 220 off-road brands with discounts, raffles, and giveaways.
  

• Charity & Community Outreach: Special Needs and Veterans Access Trail Rides, charity golf tourney, and “Become a Hero” volunteer opportunities.
  

Whether you’re wanting adrenaline on the rocks or soaking up the community vibe, every day has something unique.

2025 Trail Hero Schedule

September 29 – October 4, 2025 Schedule

• Monday (Sept 29): Charity Golf Tournament at Sand Hollow Resort, Yukon Gear & Axle Kickoff Party, late registration, and raffles.
  

• Tuesday (Sept 30): Guided trail rides begin, Special Needs Kids Trail Ride, Full Send Knockout LCQ, and a staff appreciation party.
  

• Wednesday (Oct 1): Adults Special Needs Trail Ride, Maxxis Roxxzilla SXS Shootout, and the Rocksports VIP Gala.
  

• Thursday (Oct 2): Veterans Trail Ride, BFGoodrich Trail Breaker, Vendor Show opens, and Trail Hero Music Fest kicks off.
  

• Friday (Oct 3): W.E. Rock Rock Crawl, Vendor Show, Ladies Run, and Trail Hero Music Fest featuring Tim Montana.
  

• Saturday (Oct 4): SuperATV Rampage Rally, Vendor Show, charity raffles, and the big Trail Hero Music Fest finale with Rodney Atkins.
  

• Sunday (Oct 5): Trail Clean-Up and camping move-out.
  

Pro Tip: Plan to arrive early for camping move-in on Sunday (the 28th) or Monday (29th) to secure your spot and get settled before the action starts.

Trail Hero Vehicle Requirements & Trail Ratings

Trail Hero has something for everyone. Whether you’re in a 4x4 daily driver or a tube buggy on portals, you’ll find a trail that matches your rig and your skill level. Southern Utah is home to well over 200 mapped trails, and during Trail Hero week, some of the best are on the list.

To keep things clear, Trail Hero uses a rating system that extends all the way up to 15. Don’t let that scare you off—most attendees will find themselves in the 1–8 range. Here’s how it breaks down:

Mild Trails (Ratings 1–3)

Think of these as scenic rides with just a little spice. If you’ve got a stock Jeep, Toyota, or pickup with 29–31” tires, you’re good to go. A factory off-road package or small lift is plenty. No lockers required, no body damage expected—just a fun, casual day out with incredible views.

• Examples: Toquerville Falls (2), Dinosaur Tracks (3), Honeymoon Trail (3).
  

Moderate Trails (Ratings 4–6)

This is where things start to get interesting. Plan on 33–35” tires, a limited slip or locker, and ideally a winch. These trails will push you and your spotter to work together and help you get comfortable with your vehicle’s dimensions. A little more challenge, but still a ton of fun.

• Examples: Babylon (4), Nephi Twist (5), Plan B (6), Milt’s Mile (6), Slip Lock Gulch (6).
  

Difficult Trails (Ratings 7–8)

For serious rock crawling. You’ll want lockers front and rear, 37s or bigger, beadlocks, and body armor. Hydraulic assist steering and a winch are highly recommended, and body damage is a real possibility. If you’re looking to really flex your rig and test your skills, this is the zone.

• Examples: Double Sammy (7), RazorBack (7), The Ledges (8), The Maze (8).
  

Buggy Trails (Ratings 9–10)

Specialty built rigs only. These trails aren’t just tough—they’re designed to push hardcore crawlers to the edge. Expect gnarly ledges, steep climbs, and the kind of obstacles that break parts and roll rigs. Hydro steering, 37”+ tires, heavy-duty axles, and full safety gear (cage, harnesses, helmets) are mandatory.

• Examples: Chain Reaction (9), TNT (9), Nasty Half (9).
  

Hardcore Pass (Ratings 11–15)

This is Trail Hero’s way of acknowledging just how wild modern rock sports have become. Rear steer, portal axles, and 42s are the baseline here. A “15” means a trail no one has ever completed unaided—when the first driver makes it, it drops to a 14, and so on. These aren’t for the faint of heart.

• Examples: Sandthrax (11), Shotgun (13), Super Smash Bros. (14).
  

Guided Trail Rides

The good news? Whatever level you choose, you’re not out there solo. Trail Hero’s guided rides come with experienced leaders, spotters, and recovery crews. It’s a supportive environment that makes even the gnarly stuff more approachable.

Pro Tip: If you’re new, sign up for a trail one level below what you think you can handle. It’s way more fun to finish strong than to spend the day wrenching or being recovered by Matt's Off-Road Recovery.

Trail Hero Registration

Trail Hero registration is simple, but timing matters. The earlier you sign up, the more money you save—and the smoother your check-in will be once you’re in Hurricane.

Key Dates & Costs

• Early Bird (May 1 – Aug 16): $50 per trail, per vehicle.
  

• Late Registration (Aug 17 – Sept 15): +$10 fee, bringing the price to $60 per trail.
  

• Online Registration Closes Sept 15: After this date, you’ll need to register on-site.
  

• On-Site Registration (Sept 29 – Oct 4): First-time signups are $70 per trail, per vehicle.
  

On-Site Check-In Is Required

Even if you registered online, all drivers must check in on-site to sign waivers and pick up event passes. Here’s where to do it:

• Monday, Sept 29: Sand Hollow Resort Rock Bowl at the Yukon Gear & Axle Kickoff Party (6pm–9pm).
  

• Tuesday–Saturday, Sept 30 – Oct 4: Washington County Fairgrounds (7am–10am daily).
  

Refund Policy

• No refunds after 90 days of purchase.
  

• No refunds after Sept 15.
  

• Funds can be donated to Trail Hero’s 501(c)(3) partners instead of refunded.
  

Important Note About Sand Hollow State Park

For 2025, Trail Hero is NOT working with Sand Hollow State Park, which means park entry is NOT included in your registration. If you plan on driving into the state park, you’ll need to pay gate fees separately. Plan ahead so you’re not caught off guard.

Pro Tip: Register early, double-check your trail confirmations, and don’t leave check-in for the last minute. Nothing kills the vibe like rushing paperwork when you could be airing down and rolling out.

Trail Hero Camping & Lodging 

PLEASE NOTE: Camping at the Sand Hollow State Park is no longer part of Trail Hero. ALL official Trail Hero camping offered for the event will be at Washington County Fairgrounds, Hurricane, Utah. Camping at Sand Hollow State Park will be up to you.

Locking down where you’ll sleep during Trail Hero is one of the most important steps in your planning—and it’s something you’ll want to do as early as possible. Hurricane city and the surrounding towns fill up fast when events are coming. Hotels, RV sites, campsites—you name it—start disappearing months in advance.

Reserve early—spots can sell out months in advance! You've been warned.

Here’s the breakdown of your options, plus a few tips to make life easier:

On-Site Camping at the Fairgrounds

For 2025, Trail Hero’s home base is the Washington County Fairgrounds. This is the closest you’ll get to all the action, and nothing beats being able to walk from your campsite to the vendor show or shuttle to trails. Options include primitive camping, single campsites, and RV spots with 30-amp and 50-amp hookups. Sites book for the full week (Sunday to Sunday), so you’re set from move-in to clean-up.

Hotels and Vacation Rentals

If you prefer a real bed and a hot shower, Hurricane and nearby St. George have plenty of hotels and rental properties. Staying close to the Fairgrounds puts you right in the middle of the action, but expect prices to climb as the event gets closer. There are plenty of popular options that include places like Sand Hollow Resort, Wingate by Wyndham, and Best Western Plus. Rentals through Airbnb or Vrbo can also be a good choice, especially if you’re traveling with friends and want to split costs.

A few important things to keep in mind:

• Book as far in advance as possible.
  

• Ask about trailer or RV parking before you book.
  

• Watch for multi-night minimums during Trail Hero week.
  

RV Parks

There are multiple RV parks in and around Hurricane that cater to off-roaders, complete with hookups, Wi-Fi, and amenities like pools and showers. 

A few well-known choices:

• Zion Utah Jellystone Park – Huge RV spaces with full hookups, cabins, dog park, and water zone. Great for families!           

• Settler’s Junction RV Park – 50-amp hookups, pool, Wi-Fi, playground, and pull-through sites.

• Sand Hollow Resort Villas & RV Parking – Upscale accommodations with nearby RV parking and resort amenities.

Dispersed Camping

If you’re on a budget or just want the wide-open desert experience, dispersed camping on nearby BLM land is an option. These sites have minimal or no services, so you’ll need to pack in water, firewood, and bathroom solutions. Follow all posted signs, respect protected soil, and leave no trace.

Not only is this the cheapest option, but it puts you right in the heart of Southern Utah’s wild beauty. Just know that spots near popular trailheads can fill quickly—always have a backup plan.

Food & Local Attractions

Wheeling can work up an appetite! Luckily, Hurricane city and the surrounding area have plenty of food options to fuel your adventure. From BBQ to Mexican, sit-down restaurants to grab-and-go, you’ll find something that hits the spot after a long day on the trail.

Some Local Favorites

• Lonny Boy’s BBQ – A Trail Hero staple. Big portions, 4WD-friendly, and they cater for events.
  

• Main Street Café – Locally owned, top-rated, and a personal favorite of the Trail Hero crew.
  

• Triple TJ’s Café – Great reviews, hearty meals, and friendly staff.
  

• Lupita’s Mexican Food – Casual spot for enchiladas, chimichangas, and tacos.
  

There are also typical chain restaurant options for quick convenience and familiarity.

Beyond the Trails: Things to Do Nearby

You’re in one of the most scenic corners of the country. If you’ve got downtime, you MUST check out:

• Zion National Park (25 miles away) – Iconic hikes and jaw-dropping views.
  

• North Rim of the Grand Canyon (about 2 hours) – A bucket-list detour. And if you’re this close, just make the trek.
  

• Snow Canyon State Park – Red rock formations, lava tubes, and stunning scenery.
  

• Quail Creek & Sand Hollow Reservoirs – Perfect for fishing, swimming, or cooling off between trail days.
  

• Helicopter & Jeep Tours – Local companies like Zion Helicopters and Zion Country Off-Road Tours can give you a whole new perspective on the landscape.
  

Whether you’re grabbing BBQ after the night run or sneaking in a half-day trip to Zion, Trail Hero is as much about the community and the location as it is about the off-roading.

Charity & Community: Become a Hero

Trail Hero isn’t just about trails, rock crawls, or concerts. It’s about people—and the off-road community stepping up for something bigger than itself. That’s where the “Become a Hero” program comes in. A Trail Hero is someone who puts the collective good above their own time on the rocks. Whether that means donating money, volunteering a seat, or wrenching on someone else’s rig, the impact is huge.

Here’s how you can get involved:

Special Needs Access Days

This is one of the most meaningful parts of Trail Hero. Drivers donate a passenger seat to give individuals with physical or mental disabilities the chance to experience the outdoors in a way they otherwise couldn’t. Breakfast and lunch are provided, and spots are limited to about 20 vehicles, which keeps it intimate and unforgettable.

Veterans Access Days

Freedom isn’t free—and Trail Hero makes sure veterans get to enjoy the lands they fought to protect. These guided rides are a small but powerful way to say thanks. Veterans are invited out for a day on the trail with fellow vets, enjoying terrain that would be impossible to reach any other way. Breakfast and lunch are covered, and the camaraderie on these rides is second to none.

Volunteer Opportunities

Maybe you’re not donating a seat—but you can still give. Volunteers are needed all week long to guide trails, recover vehicles, and support community events. If you’ve ever thought about giving back to the off-road world that gives you so much, this is the place to do it.

Donations

Trail Hero supports organizations like Hero For A Day, 4 Wheel to Heal, and the Utah 4 Wheel Drive Association. Donations go directly to trail defense, community events, and even vehicle repairs for veterans and special-needs participants. None of it gets wasted on fluff—funds cover things like meals, shirts, and building or fixing the rigs that make these life-changing rides possible.

Trail Hero Music Fest & Vendor Show

Enjoy three nights of live country and rock music under the stars. The 2025 Trail Hero Music Fest runs October 2–4 at the Washington County Fairgrounds in Hurricane, Utah, bringing a bigger venue, expanded activities, and the same patriotic, off-road spirit the event is known for.

The 2025 Nightly Headliners

• Thursday, Oct 2: Lakeview with Colt Graves, Fox Brothers, DJ Trust & The Crew
  

• Friday, Oct 3: Tim Montana with Huntergirl, Carver Louis, Black Sabbatical
  

• Saturday, Oct 4: Rodney Atkins with Whitney Lusk, Jeremy Rowe, Will Cullen
  

In total, 13 artists will perform across the Monster Energy Main Stage, mixing rock and country with a Trail Hero vibe that’s family-friendly and festival-sized.

Tickets

• 3-Day General Admission: $50 (bleacher seating, open seating)
  

• 3-Day VIP: $125 (floor access, bring blankets or chairs, close to beer garden)
  

• 3-Day Platinum VIP: $175 (front row access, exclusive beer garden, VIP suite corrals, close restrooms, swag tosses from the Crew dance team)
  

**Get Your Tickets HERE**

Veterans, first responders, and law enforcement can reserve free tickets on specific dates with proof of ID. Kids under 12 are always free. But quantities are limited—first come, first served.

Parking & Wristband Pickup

• Parking: Free and located right by the fairgrounds vendor show and concert venue. VIP parking passes available while supplies last at wristband pick-up.
  

• Wristbands: Pick them up Monday night (Sept 29) at the Yukon Gear & Axle Kickoff Party at Sand Hollow Resort, or daily at the Fairgrounds near the vendor show.
  

Beyond the Music

The Music Fest is the anchor of Trail Hero nights, but the fun doesn’t stop when the last chord fades:

• Vendor Show: 220+ off-road brands open from 3–7pm daily, free entry with raffles and show discounts.
  

• Charity Raffles: $20,000+ in prizes supporting causes like Racing Anxiety and 4 Wheel to Heal. Winners announced Saturday at 4pm. Must be present to win.
  

• Club Trail Hero After Party: Runs from 7pm–midnight behind the stage for those who want to keep the night alive.
  

Conclusion

Trail Hero is more than an off-road event—it’s a movement to protect access, celebrate the off-road lifestyle, and give back to the community. With a full week of trails, motorsports, music, and outreach, 2025 is shaping up to be the biggest year yet.

Whether you’re tackling the Trail Breaker, rocking out at the Music Fest, or giving a veteran the ride of a lifetime, you’ll leave Hurricane with stories, friendships, and memories that last a lifetime.

And if you’re running RokBlokz gear at Trail Hero? We want to see it! Send us your photos or tag us on social media—whether you’re ripping through Sand Hollow’s dunes, climbing ledges, or just showing off at Vendor Row, our mud flaps and accessories are built for this terrain. And if you need to pick some up before attending, check us out HERE.

Register early, pack smart, support the cause, and we’ll see you in Southern Utah.

Trail Hero 2025 FAQs

How much does it cost to attend Trail Hero?

Trail Hero trail registration is per vehicle, not per person. Early Bird registration (before August 15) is $50 per trail. Standard registration (Aug 16–Sept 15) is $60. On-site registration during event week is $70. Music Fest tickets range from $20 general admission to $175 Platinum VIP, with three-day passes available. Veterans receive one free GA ticket with proof of service.

Do I need a modified vehicle to participate?

Nope! Trail Hero is designed for everyone, from stock 4x4s to tube buggies. There are mild scenic trails for beginners (ratings 1–3), moderate challenges (4–6), and hardcore buggy runs (7–10). If you’re bringing a stock Jeep, truck, or UTV, there’s a trail for you.

Can UTVs join Jeep trails?

Yes, UTVs can register for Jeep trails, but the pace will be slower than dedicated SXS runs. Jeeps cannot join SXS-only trails.

Do I need permits or paperwork to drive at Trail Hero?

Yes, if your vehicle isn’t street-legal in Utah (like a UTV, buggy, or truggy), you’ll need a Utah Non-Resident OHV Permit, which must be purchased online at least two weeks before the event. Starting in 2023, Utah also requires all OHV operators to complete the Utah OHV Education Course—adults and youth alike.

What’s the weather like in Hurricane, UT in early October?

Expect daytime highs in the low-to-mid 80s and overnight lows around 50°F. The desert can flip from hot to chilly quickly, so bring layers. Rain is possible but uncommon in early October. You can always stay up-to-date HERE.

Where can I camp or stay during Trail Hero?

Trail Hero’s new home base at the Washington County Fairgrounds offers primitive and RV camping with hookups, but spots go fast. Sand Hollow State Park has campgrounds and is still the home for all trails and motorsports activities. Nearby, Hurricane and St. George have hotels, RV resorts, and vacation rentals. Dispersed camping on BLM land is also available, but you’ll need to be fully self-contained.

Is Trail Hero family-friendly?

Yes! Kids under 12 attend free, and there are trails, concerts, and activities for all ages. There are also special rides for kids with special needs to experience the outdoors.

What about pets?

Leashed pets are welcome on trails and in campsites. They’re not allowed in Music Fest GA/VIP areas, but you can bring them into the “Tailgate Area.”

What’s there to do after the trails?

Every afternoon at 2pm, motorsports competitions kick off: Rock Crawls, Shootouts, or the famous Trail Breaker. Evenings bring vendor raffles, night runs, movies, and the Trail Hero Music Fest.

What should I pack for Trail Hero?

At a minimum, bring:

• Extra water (the desert is dry and unforgiving)
  

• Food/snacks/lunch for full-day trail rides
  

• Recovery gear (tow straps, shackles, jack, tire repair kit)
  

• CB radio (trail groups still use CB comms)
  

• Clothing layers for sun, wind, and chilly nights
  

• Sunscreen and sunglasses
  

Optional but highly recommended: portable air compressor, traction boards, heated blanket for camping, and wet wipes for trail breaks.

How many vehicles are on each trail?

Most mild-to-moderate trails are capped at 30–35 vehicles. Difficult trails allow ~25, while extreme buggy runs may be limited to 10–15. These caps keep trail groups manageable and safe.

What happens if my rig breaks down on the trail?

Trail Hero guides and recovery crews are on hand to help, and most groups are full of experienced drivers willing to lend tools, parts, or spotting. Still, bring your own basic tool kit and spares (like belts and u-joints) to avoid cutting your day short.

How can I give back at Trail Hero?

There are several ways:

• Donate to groups like Hero For A Day or Utah 4 Wheel Drive Association
  

• Volunteer for Special Needs or Veterans Trail Rides
  

• Buy raffle tickets or attend the Charity Golf Tournament
  

• Simply show up, participate, and be a good steward of the land                 

Sources:

Trail Hero Official Website

Trail Hero Music Fest

Greater Zion Tourism