Moonscape Overlook Factory Butte and Bentonite Hills

Discover Utah’s Secret Landscapes with the Moonscape Overlook, Factory Butte, and Bentonite Hills Tour

If you’re seeking a way to see Utah’s most striking, lesser-known desert landscapes, this tour offers a fantastic chance. Designed for those who love striking geology and unique scenery, the Moonscape Overlook, Factory Butte, and Bentonite Hills excursion takes you beyond the crowded National Parks to see some of Utah’s most photogenic and unusual sites. It’s a carefully curated journey into the wild, scenic backroads, led by knowledgeable guides who are passionate about sharing the area’s natural wonders.

What really makes this tour shine are two things: first, the stunning views at sunrise or during blue hour—perfect for photography and drone footage— and second, the expert guidance that makes navigating these remote areas both safe and enriching. On the flip side, a potential challenge could be the price, which, at $230 per person, might seem steep compared to other local outings. However, considering the private nature, the length of the tour, and the access to pristine, lightly visited sites, it offers genuine value for adventurous travelers with an eye for extraordinary landscapes.

This experience is best suited for photographers, geology enthusiasts, or anyone craving an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Utah. If you want to escape the crowds and learn about Martian-like terrain, this tour hits all those marks.

Key Points

• Exclusive access to lightly visited, Instagram-famous sites like Bentonite Hills and Moonscape Overlook.
• Expert-guided with insightful commentary on geology and local history.
• Flexible timing for sunrise or blue hour photography, especially since drone use is permitted.
• Comfortable transportation in a climate-controlled SUV on rugged backroads.
• Private tour tailored for your group, ensuring personalized attention.
• Price reflects a premium experience with high-value photo opportunities and expert guidance.

Exploring Utah’s Hidden Gems

Most travelers to the Capitol Reef area stick to the main park roads and overlooks, but this tour offers a peek into the less-visited, awe-inspiring landscapes that sit just outside the national park boundaries. These sites have gained popularity through Instagram but remain surprisingly uncrowded—a real bonus for those craving solitude and a chance to capture moments without a crowd.

Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Capitol Reef National Park — but don’t expect a typical park visit. Instead, you’ll hop into a well-equipped, air-conditioned SUV with a guide who is as enthusiastic about geology as they are about storytelling. The first stop is the Moonscape Overlook, perched atop a mesa with panoramic views of a landscape that looks like the surface of the Moon. The views are vast, detailed, and utterly unlike anything you see in a typical national park setting. We loved the way the guide pointed out different formations, explaining how the landscape was shaped over millennia.

From there, the journey continues across 4×4 roads past the iconic Factory Butte, a towering monolith that’s often photographed for its dramatic, solitary presence. The drive itself is almost as exciting as the destination, with rugged, unpaved roads that add to the adventure. According to reviews, the off-road driving skills of guides like Jason and Sam are a big plus—most travelers find them both entertaining and reassuring.

Next up is the Bentonite Hills, a softly sculpted landscape with rainbow-colored clay formations. It’s a scenery that begs for close-up photos—especially at sunrise or during blue hour when the lighting brings out the colors in sharp relief. One reviewer called it “comparable to the surface of Mars,” a pretty fitting description for this alien-looking terrain.

What Makes Each Stop Unique?

Moonscape Overlook — This viewpoint offers sweeping vistas that inspire awe and make for perfect photo opportunities. It’s a vantage point that captures the vastness and intricate details of Utah’s desert landscapes, emphasizing their lunar-like qualities.

Factory Butte — Standing tall and solitary, Factory Butte provides a stunning backdrop for photographs and a sense of scale that’s hard to match. Its prominence in the landscape makes it a photographer’s dream.

Bentonite Hills — The softly rounded, rainbow-colored hills are a geological marvel. The hues and textures change with the light, offering a different experience at each visit.

The Experience of the Guide

Multiple reviews highlight the knowledge and friendliness of the guides—most notably Jason and Sam. Their background insights and storytelling elevate the trip from a simple sightseeing jaunt to an educational adventure. The guides’ off-road skills also mean you’ll comfortably explore these rougher routes without worry. Their passion for geology and the landscape shines through, making the experience more meaningful.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Duration — The tour lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, making it a full but manageable half-day trip. It’s perfect for travelers who want a significant, memorable experience without committing an entire day or more.

Transportation — Traveling in a comfortable SUV equipped for rugged terrain ensures you’re shielded from the elements and bumps. The vehicle’s climate control is appreciated during the hot Utah days or cool mornings.

Price and Value — At $230 per person, this tour costs more than a typical bus or group outing. However, the private setting, expert guiding, and exclusive sites justify the expense. When you factor in the opportunity to photograph stunning landscapes at optimal times, most travelers find this to be a worthwhile investment.

Booking and Availability — The tour is popular, often booked 56 days in advance, so plan ahead. It offers pickup from your lodging in the region, adding to the convenience.

Drones and Photography — Since the area is outside the national park and drone use is permitted, expect to capture some extraordinary footage—perfect for social media or personal keepsakes.

Tips and Considerations — Snacks and drinks are provided, but gratuities are not included. The tour is private, so it’s ideal for families, couples, or small groups seeking a personalized experience.

Authenticity and Unique Touches

Unlike large, impersonal tours, this experience emphasizes authenticity. The guides take the time to explain the geology and history in engaging ways, making the landscape come alive. Our review mentions how one guest described the guide as a “phenomenal expert” whose stories added depth to the views.

You’ll also genuinely feel like you’re exploring untouched land—sites that are just outside the busy confines of national parks, offering peaceful, contemplative moments with nature.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for photographers eager to capture otherworldly landscapes at the best times of day. It’s perfect for geology buffs wanting to understand Utah’s unique terrain. If you’re someone who enjoys off-road adventures and discovering lesser-known sites, this tour delivers in spades.

It’s also a good choice for small groups or families who prefer personalized attention, as the tour is private. Those on a tight schedule might find the 4-5 hours just right for a memorable half-day outing, while travelers seeking a deeper, less-crowded experience will appreciate the quiet, scenic spots visited.

Final Thoughts

This Moonscape Overlook, Factory Butte, and Bentonite Hills tour packs a lot into a short time, revealing some of Utah’s most unusual and beautiful landscapes. For those willing to spend a bit more, you’ll get a guided outing that’s educational, scenic, and filled with photo opportunities—especially at sunrise or blue hour. The expert guides, like Jason and Sam, make all the difference, bringing the landscape to life with stories and insights.

While the price might seem high, the combination of private transportation, expert guiding, and access to hidden gems offers good value for travelers craving an authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventure. You’ll leave with stunning photos, unforgettable memories, and a new appreciation for Utah’s volcanic and sedimentary landscapes.

If you’re a curious traveler, a geology enthusiast, or someone who loves capturing unique vistas at their most dramatic, this tour is a superb choice. It’s a chance to see landscapes that look like they belong on another planet—if only for a few hours.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and the private nature makes it flexible for families or groups of friends. The terrain involves some off-road driving, but guides are skilled, and the vehicle is comfortable.

What is included in the tour?
Snacks and drinks are provided. The tour price covers guide services, transportation, and access to the scenic sites.

Are tips included?
Tips are not included in the price but are appreciated for great service.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is at Wayne County Tourism, 12 UT-24, Torrey, UT 84775.

Can I book this tour in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 56 days ahead, as it’s quite popular.

Is drone flying allowed?
Yes, since the areas visited are outside the National Park boundaries, drone use is permitted, allowing for spectacular aerial footage.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera or drone, plenty of water, and dress appropriate for the weather—layers work well since Utah weather can vary quickly.

In short, this tour offers an unbeatable glimpse into some of Utah’s most surreal landscapes—perfect for those eager to see beyond the crowds and experience the wild, scenic beauty that makes this part of the world so special.