San Rafael Swell Expedition

Rising out of the high desert of central Utah, the San Rafael Swell is a massive uplift of sandstone, canyons, mesas, cliffs and desert landscapes shaped over millions of years. Hidden within it are dinosaur tracks, ancient petroglyphs, remnants of those who lived and traveled here long before us, and miles of backcountry roads leading to places most people drive past.

In May 2027, Fernweh Guided Expeditions is returning for four days of exploration, education, off-road driving and community in one of our favorite places to adventure.

More Than an Off-Road Trip

The San Rafael Swell gives us an incredible outdoor classroom. Throughout the expedition, we’ll explore the geology, ecology and human history of the region. We’ll search for petroglyphs and dinosaur tracks, walk through ancient landscapes, learn how this massive geological formation came to exist and spend time appreciating the details that are easy to miss when you’re simply driving through.

Joining us again is Randy Bacon: geologist, photographer, fellow adventurer, and one of our favorite people to have on a Fernweh trip. Randy has a gift for looking at a landscape and helping you understand what you’re actually seeing, and his eye as a photographer adds another dimension to a place as geologically complex as the San Rafael Swell.

Build Confidence Behind the Wheel

The Swell offers an excellent variety of terrain for learning: dirt roads, sand, rock, ledges, washes, climbs and descents, and sections where choosing the right line matters. Rather than simply getting everyone through an obstacle, we’ll use opportunities along the route to teach.

We’ll talk about:

• Reading terrain and selecting a line
• Tire placement and vehicle awareness
• Momentum versus controlled speed
• Climbing and descending safely
• Traction and tire pressure
• Spotting and communication
• Understanding your vehicle’s capabilities
• Basic recovery principles and equipment

This is not an off-road driving course, the goal is to leave the San Rafael Swell more comfortable and confident with your vehicle than when you arrived.

Slow Down and Explore

Some of the best moments on a Fernweh trip happen when the rigs are parked. We’ll make time to hike, explore cultural sites, photograph the landscape, and simply stand somewhere remarkable for a while. When the day winds down, we’ll gather at camp for good food, campfires, and stories.

What Kind of Vehicles Can Join?

This expedition is designed for capable, self-contained adventure vehicles: 4WD/AWD adventure vans with adequate clearance, expedition trucks and properly equipped 4×4 trucks and SUVs.

Terrain generally falls in the beginner-to-intermediate range, but desert conditions can change quickly, and learning to navigate that together is part of the experience. If you’re unsure whether your vehicle is a fit, reach out before registering. We’re happy to talk it through.

What to Expect

• Four days of exploration in Utah’s San Rafael Swell
• Remote, dispersed backcountry camping
• Off-road driving and recovery skills education
• Geology, ecology, and regional history
• Petroglyphs, dinosaur tracks, hikes, and scenic overlooks
• Shared meals, campfires, and community
• Small-group travel with room to explore

Pricing:

Driver + Vehicle = $1,450 USD
Additional Passenger(s) = $550 USD