Il Tempio del Sole e il Tempio della Luna
(Temple of the Sun and Temple of the Moon)
jeep tour

Explore Utah’s “Martian” Landscape on Our Purple Mountain Off-Road Adventure!
 

Ever wondered what it feels like to walk on the surface of Mars? Now you can experience the next best thing—right here in Utah!

Departing from the picturesque towns of Torrey, this one-of-a-kind adventure takes you deep into the heart of Southern Utah’s red-rock country along the scenic Highway 24. Choose a sunrise or sunset departure to witness the landscape come alive with surreal shades of blue, purple, and gold—the perfect time for photos and unforgettable memories.

Your journey begins with pickup directly from your lodging, where you’ll settle into one of our comfortable, closed-top SUVs. From there, we’ll head down the iconic Highway 24 toward Hanksville—an hour of ever-changing views that build anticipation for what’s ahead. Before reaching town, we’ll turn onto Cow Dung Road, a historic trail winding through the ancient Morrison Formation, a geological treasure from the Jurassic era.

One of the tour’s highlights is the NASA Mars Research Facility, located just beyond our route. While access to the facility is restricted, you’ll get a rare glimpse of it from a distance—adding an authentic, otherworldly touch to your “Martian” experience.

You’ll then arrive at the breathtaking Purple Mountain, also known as the Blue Bentonite Hills, famous for their incredible hues that shift from deep blue to vibrant violet in the changing light. Unlike the more famous Bentonite Hills of Cathedral Valley, this hidden gem offers a quieter, more intimate experience that feels truly out of this world.
 

⚠️ Important Tip: As the popularity of this location grows, many social media posts have incorrectly tagged other areas as "Bentonite Hills". To make sure you book the experience you really want, we highly recommend watching our Instagram video explaining the key differences between the Bentonite Hills tour on Hartnet Road and the Purple Mountain tour on Cow Dung Road.
 

Throughout the tour, our expert local guides will share captivating stories about the region’s geology, history, and unique ecosystem—turning every mile into an adventure of discovery. Want to capture the moment? Bring your own drone, or add a professional drone video package and let your guide film stunning aerial footage of you surrounded by the vivid Martian colors of Purple Mountain (see here examples​).

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker craving off-road excitement or a nature lover drawn to Utah’s raw beauty, our half-day Jeep tour promises an unforgettable escape. Discover the untamed wilderness, surreal colors, and space-like landscapes that make Purple Mountain one of Utah’s best-kept secrets.

Book your Purple Mountain Off-Road Tour today and experience what it’s like to explore another planet—without ever leaving Earth.

Please Note: This tour is NOT recommended for guests with mobility issues or those at risk of heart insufficiency, as reaching the most colorful viewpoints requires a steep and sometimes slippery ascent. If you prefer a less physically demanding option, we suggest booking our classic Bentonite Hills Tour in Cathedral Valley, which offers equally stunning scenery with easier access.