Hanksville/Torrey: Bentonite Hills Drone/Photography Tour

If you’re a photography enthusiast or just someone craving an adventure in landscapes that look like they’re from another planet, the Bentonite Hills Drone/Photography Tour offers an enticing escape. Set in Utah’s otherworldly terrain near Hanksville, this three-hour guided outing combines off-road exploration with breathtaking vistas, all led by experienced guides who know how to bring out your best shot. With a price of $200 per person, it’s a solid investment for those eager to capture some truly surreal images, especially if drone footage is part of your dream package.

One thing we love about this tour is how it blends the thrill of a rugged off-road journey with the chance to refine your photography skills amid some of the most extraordinary scenery you’ll find in Utah. The landscape here — vibrant red soils, strange geological formations, and sweeping vistas — creates a perfect backdrop for both amateur and seasoned shooters. However, a potential consideration is that reaching the best vantage points might involve climbing about 50 to 100 feet, which could be a challenge for those with mobility issues or low fitness levels. This tour is best suited for curious explorers, photography lovers, and drone enthusiasts who want an authentic taste of Utah’s Martian-like terrain.

Key Points

• Unique Landscape: The Bentonite Hills resemble an alien world, offering stunning, surreal vistas perfect for photography.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides, like Jenni, enhance the experience with local insights and safety tips.
• Off-Road Adventure: The journey involves traversing rocky, rugged trails in a private vehicle, adding excitement and exclusivity.
• Drone & Photography Focus: Opportunities for capturing stunning images, with optional drone video footage available.
• Accessibility Considerations: Reaching the highest vantage points requires climbing, making it less suitable for those with mobility challenges.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve with the option to pay later, and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Landscape: What to Expect

The tour kicks off with a convenient pickup from Hanksville, Torrey, Teasdale, or anywhere along Highway 24, with guides waving down a Black or White SUV marked with Meridian’s logo. From there, the adventure truly begins as your guide steers you into the heart of Utah’s Bentonite Hills — a landscape that looks remarkably like Mars. The vibrant red hues, sharp geological formations, and wide-open views immediately set the scene for a truly extraordinary experience.

The Journey: As you traverse rocky trails, you’ll notice that this area has been carefully selected for its photogenic qualities. The rugged terrain offers numerous vantage points, some requiring a gentle climb of 50 to 100 feet to get the best views. We loved the way guides like Jenni shared her extensive knowledge of the landscape, making each stop both informative and inspiring. According to one reviewer, “Jenni is a great guide,” and her insights added layers of context that made the landscape come alive.

Photo Opportunities: Whether you’re capturing still shots or drone footage (which can be rented or added as an upgrade), the vistas here are nothing short of spectacular. The contrasting colors and unusual geological formations create a surreal effect that will elevate your social media game or personal collection. The tour is suitable for all skill levels, but those interested in drone photography will find plenty of inspiration. If you choose to add drone footage, you’ll leave with a cinematic record of your adventure.

Guided Insight: The guides are well-versed and enthusiastic, sharing facts and tips that help you understand the landscape’s geological significance. One reviewer, Marcy Lynne, described her guide as “marvelous,” emphasizing her deep knowledge of the area. This kind of expertise makes the difference between a simple sightseeing trip and a memorable, educational experience.

Timing & Duration: The 3-hour window provides enough time to explore several viewpoints and take a good number of photographs without feeling rushed. The flexibility of starting times means you can select a slot that suits your itinerary, and the private group setting ensures a more personalized experience.

Value for Money

At $200 per person, the tour offers good value considering the personalized guidance, transportation, and access to unique landscapes that are often inaccessible by regular vehicles. The inclusion of pickup and drop-off adds convenience, especially given the remote location. The optional drone footage is a bonus, turning your trip into a cinematic keepsake, which reviewers highly recommend. With the option to reserve now and pay later, travelers can secure their spot without immediate commitment, which adds a layer of flexibility.

Compared to other experiences in the area like canyoneering or park visits, this tour stands out for its focus on photography and exploration. The private nature of the trip ensures you won’t be overwhelmed by crowds, and the guides’ local knowledge enriches the adventure. As one happy customer noted, “Our guide was marvelous…we would certainly use her again,” highlighting the quality of service.

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

Pickup and Arrival

The tour begins with a pickup from designated locations, including Hanksville, Torrey, and Teasdale. Look for a Black or White SUV with Meridian’s logo for easy identification. The guides speak several languages, including English, Russian, and Italian, making this accessible to a diverse group of travelers.

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The Drive into Bentonite Hills

Once onboard, you’ll head into the rugged terrain in a private vehicle. The drive itself is exciting, with the vehicle bouncing over rocky trails while your guide shares interesting tidbits about the geology of the region. This part of the journey sets the tone for what’s to come: a landscape that looks like it belongs on another planet.

Scenic Stops and Photo Sessions

Your guide will select several viewpoints for photography, some requiring brief climbs. The views are expansive, showcasing the red-hued soil, strange rock formations, and sweeping desert vistas. These spots are perfect for panoramic shots or close-ups of geological features. As one reviewer pointed out, “the places are wonderful,” and the diverse scenery keeps each stop fresh and engaging.

Drone and Photography Opportunities

If you rent or upgrade your package with drone footage, you’ll get an aerial perspective of the landscape’s strange patterns and formations. The guides are happy to help you with photography tips, whether you’re using a smartphone or a professional camera. The landscape’s vibrant colors really pop in photos, making this an ideal setting for capturing memorable images.

Return Journey

After approximately three hours of exploration, you’ll head back to your pickup point, with plenty of chances to discuss your favorite shots and the landscape’s geological stories. Many reviewers, including Marcy Lynne, appreciated the guides’ knowledge, which added depth to the visual experience.

Why This Tour Works

The combination of rugged off-road driving, expert guides, and extraordinary scenery creates a memorable adventure. For photography lovers, the landscape offers countless opportunities to hone your skills or experiment with drone filming. The private group setting ensures a relaxed atmosphere, and the flexible booking options make it easy to plan ahead.

While the effort to reach some vantage points might not be suitable for everyone—especially those with mobility issues—the view from the top is likely worth the climb. And for those with a sense of adventure and curiosity about Utah’s strange, beautiful landscapes, this tour delivers an experience that’s both fun and inspiring.

The Sum Up

The Bentonite Hills Drone/Photography Tour around Hanksville is a stellar choice for travelers seeking a mix of adventure, stunning scenery, and photo opportunities in a setting that feels truly alien. Led by guides like Jenni, who combine local knowledge with enthusiasm, you’ll walk away with not just pictures but stories of a landscape that looks like it belongs to another world.

This experience is best suited for those interested in photography, drone footage, or simply exploring Utah’s unique geology. It’s a perfect fit for curious explorers who enjoy off-road adventures and want a personalized, intimate outing rather than a crowded tour. The price reflects the quality and exclusivity of the experience, and the optional drone footage adds incredible value for creating lasting memories.

Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or a casual traveler craving extraordinary views, this tour offers an unforgettable slice of Utah’s rugged beauty. It’s a well-rounded, authentic experience that combines the thrill of discovery with the chance to capture images that will leave your friends green with envy.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
Your $200 covers transportation, guided service, water, and pickup/drop-off from selected locations. Drone video footage can be added as an extra.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
While the tour includes some climbing of about 50 to 100 feet for the best vantage points, it’s mainly suitable for those comfortable with light hiking and uneven terrain.

Can I rent a drone for footage?
Yes, drone rentals are available for an additional fee, allowing you to capture aerial shots of the landscape.

What languages do guides speak?
Guides are available in English, Russian, and Italian, catering to a diverse group of travelers.

What should I bring?
Closed-toe shoes are recommended for safety and comfort. Bring your camera and any accessories you may want for photography.

This guide aims to help you determine if this tour matches your interests and travel style. With stunning scenery, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to photograph what feels like an alien planet, the Bentonite Hills Drone/Photography Tour offers a distinctive, memorable adventure in Utah.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby