Little Sahara Sand Dunes: A Desert Playground

The Little Sahara Sand Dunes in Juab County, Utah, offers a fun desert adventure. Spanning 60,000 acres, this natural sandbox is a paradise for ATV and outdoor enthusiasts, featuring huge dunes, diverse trails, and a breathtaking landscape.

What To Do at the Little Sahara Sand Dunes

• Off-Roading: The dunes are a haven for off-road vehicle enthusiasts. With hundreds of miles of trails, you can ride ATVs, dune buggies, and dirt bikes across the sand.
• Camping: Enjoy a night under the stars at one of the several campgrounds. Jericho, White Sands, Oasis, and Sand Mountain campgrounds provide various amenities to suit all camping styles.
• Hiking: Explore the dunes on foot for a unique hiking experience. Trails like Sand Mountain offer incredible views and a challenging climb.
• Photography: The ever-changing landscape of the dunes makes for stunning photography opportunities, especially at sunrise and sunset.
• Sand Board: Sandboarding (similar to snowboarding but with sand) is gaining popularity, and it’s fun to try.
• Sledding: You can bring a sled and ride it down the sand hills like in the snow. 
• Sand Mountain: The tallest dune, rising nearly 700 feet, offers breathtaking views and a thrilling challenge.
• World’s Largest Sandboxes: Two of the world’s largest sandboxes have been created next to the White Sands Campground. Each play area covers several acres and is fenced to provide a clean haven for children.
  

How to Get There

Be Prepared

• Safety First: Always wear safety gear when off-roading and be aware of your surroundings.
• Prepare for the Weather: The desert can have extreme temperatures, so bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and protective clothing. For weather information, call (435) 433-5961.
• Visitor Center: The visitor center is open year-round and closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. The telephone number is (435) 433-5960.
  

The Sand Dunes Get Very Busy on Holidays

The Little Sahara Sand Dunes sees upwards of 300,000 visitors a year, with the busiest periods on the holiday weekends around Easter, Memorial Day, and Labor Day. During these times, the dunes come alive. If you enjoy crowds and parties, the base of Sand Mountain is the place to be. However, if you prefer a more secluded area, the nearby campgrounds and trails along Black Mountain don’t see as many people.

Nearby Hikes and Attractions

Eureka, Utah’s Historic Main Street: Nestled in the Tintic Mountains, Eureka, Utah, invites visitors to step back in time and explore its charming Historic Main Street.

Geode Beds: The geode beds near Dugway, Utah, offer rockhounds the chance to explore the desert landscape in search of geodes.

Historic Sinclair Gas Station: The Old Sinclair Gas Station in Elberta, Utah, is a nostalgic roadside gem. Situated along Highway 68, this iconic structure relays the classic American road trip era, making it a must-see for history buffs.

Meadow Hot Springs: Meadow Hot Springs, located near the small town of Meadow, Utah, consists of three natural hot springs surrounded by open meadows and farmland.

Paul Bunyon’s Wood Pile: Paul Bunyan’s Woodpile is a fascinating geological formation near Jericho Junction, east of Highway 6 in Juab County, Utah. This natural wonder resembles a giant woodpile, adding a touch of folklore to its geologic intrigue.

Topaz Mountain: Located in the West Desert, Topaz Mountain is a hidden gem for rockhounds. Renowned for its abundant topaz crystals and unique geological formations, this remote destination offers a one-of-a-kind adventure.

Keep the Little Sahara Sand Dunes Beautiful

Remember to respect nature and follow ethical practices when engaging in outdoor activities.  Always leave a place better than you found it, and practice the principles of Leave No Trace.  Enjoy your time exploring the trails and discovering the area’s hidden treasures!