My passion for off-roading is huge, so I eagerly joined the much-anticipated 2023 SxS Adventure Rally on the Rocks in Hurricane, Utah.

This annual gathering, which takes place in mid-May at the Sand Hollow Recreation Area, attracts a large group of UTV enthusiasts from all over, seeking a week filled with thrilling off-road adventures. This year, I had the exciting opportunity to tag along with none other than Curt Miles and Jake Andersen from SlikRok Productions, amplifying the anticipation for an unforgettable experience.

As the clock struck 9 am, the meeting time for the day's adventures, I couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and trepidation when I laid my eyes upon the impressive fleet of UTVs that the SlikRok crew had brought along. Their 4-seat rigs equipped with GDP portals and boasting massive 37" and 39" MRT XRox tires seemed like powerful beasts ready to conquer any thing they encounter. In contrast, there I was, sitting in my two-seat stock machine, adorned with the newly released 35-inch MRT Rocky Rx tires, feeling somewhat underprepared. It was as if I had unwittingly found myself in a sequel to "The Lord of the Rings," aptly titled "Return of the Orcs," with my humble rig appearing rather dwarfed amongst the impressive lineup. But with a touch of humor, I couldn't help but quip, "I'm going on an adventure!" reminiscent of Bilbo Baggins himself.

Curt, our fearless leader for the day, wasted no time in igniting our adrenaline-fueled journey. He led us straight onto a trail boasting an 8 out of 10 difficulty rating. As someone who considered themselves a seasoned rock crawler, I thought I had seen it all. However, following Curt and his crew made me quickly reassess my confidence. We encountered a series of jaw-droppingly steep and towering obstacles that seemed inconceivable for a UTV to conquer. To say I was impressed would be an understatement. The finesse and seemingly effortless manner in which this skilled crew maneuvered these mini mountains of boulders left me in awe. While I managed to conquer most of the obstacles throughout the day, there were a few that I decided to spectate and capture through my camera lens, choosing to appreciate the awe-inspiring feats from a different perspective.

For those who have Sand Hollow on their bucket list of must visit places, this event proves to be a fantastic opportunity, especially for first timers. Guided rides are available each day, led by experienced drivers well-acquainted with the area's terrain. Their expertise allows them to help you navigate even the most treacherous climbs, turning what might seem like insurmountable challenges into thrilling accomplishments. Vendor Row is filled with an array of aftermarket manufacturers with fantastic deals for all UTVs brands. Polaris is even on site with Demo rides of the latest and greatest machines!

So, whether you're a seasoned off-roader or new to the scene, the SxS Adventure Rally on the Rocks offers an adventure-filled experience that will undoubtedly leave you with unforgettable memories and a newfound appreciation for the thrill of off-roading.