The Pines & Peaks SXS Adventure was a fantastic summer escape into the tall pines and rugged peaks of northern Arizona, based out of the beautiful Village Camp RV Resort in Belmont, AZ. Hosted by UTV Offroad Adventures, the event welcomed 45 SXS vehicles and approximately 80 enthusiastic riders from Arizona, California, Texas, and beyond. The oldest adventurer was 72 years young, while the youngest participant was just 20, proving that this offroad family spans generations. Nestled in the towering pines near Belmont, AZ, about 2 hours north of Phoenix and just a short drive from Flagstaff, Parks, and Williams, this event showcased some of northern Arizona’s most scenic and diverse terrain.
Riders stayed at the beautiful Village Camp RV Resort or nearby in a hotel, dispersed camping, or an Airbnb, and enjoyed meals catered by Mustang River Grill, which also served as the venue for Saturday night’s dinner and awards. Each morning began with a hearty catered breakfast by Mustang River at the Village Camp RV Resort clubhouse patio, surrounded by fresh mountain air and tall pine trees. Guests caught up with old friends, made new ones, and relaxed in the peaceful forest setting.
Ride One took the group north of I-40 on an 85-mile journey to the Lava Caves area—a fascinating geological site formed by ancient volcanic activity. The Lava River Cave itself is a remarkable lava tube approximately 1,300 feet long, created thousands of years ago when molten lava flowed beneath the surface, leaving behind an underground cave system that remains a geological wonder. The ride featured wet trails, rocky and cinder rock sections, flowy trail segments, hill climbs, green meadows, and beautiful pine trees. Riders passed through burned sections recovering from wildfire, witnessing nature’s resilience first-hand. The area is rich with wildlife, including deer, turkey, elk, and grazing cattle. The ride also offered stunning panoramic views of the San Francisco Peaks, making it a memorable experience for all. This off-road trail did not disappoint as it offered a little bit of everything.
Ride Two headed south of I-40 on a 108-mile trek toward the famed Edge of the World, an awe-inspiring overlook that grants sweeping vistas of northern Arizona’s landscape, including Sedona’s iconic red rock formations and the natural wonder known as Jenga Rock—a precariously balanced stack of sandstone blocks that captures the imagination. Along the way, riders navigated twisting lush forest trails and went through a couple of tunnels, adding a sense of adventure. The terrain was varied and scenic as the trail plunged riders into a landscape of towering pines, winding forest roads, and expansive. Wildlife sightings were plentiful and included deer, elk, turkey, and more. The group stopped at Sycamore Falls, a dramatic cliff-lined area that, despite being dry this time, provided a stunning and peaceful lunch setting near the historic JD Cabin. On the return trip, light afternoon sprinkles brought a refreshing cooldown as the group rode through the charming town of Williams, AZ, where they paused for refreshments and snacks at the Frontier Bar and Restaurant before heading back to Village Camp RV Resort.
The cooler mountain temperatures—starting near 70 degrees—offered a welcome break from the summer heat and made exploring the rugged terrain even more enjoyable.
On Saturday night, everyone gathered at Mustang River Grill in Parks, AZ for dinner, raffles, best and worst poker hand winners, and good company. Special awards were handed out for Farthest Traveler, Oldest Rider, and the always-entertaining Dumb Ass Award, sparking plenty of laughs and memorable moments. Proceeds from the poker pot will go to the Salvation Army Christmas Tree Angels, which is used to buy toys for children at Christmas. Last year’s events raised over $10,000 to buy toys.
The Pines & Peaks SXS Adventure delivered everything the name promises—towering pine forests, high-elevation peaks, cooler temps, and an unforgettable off-road experience. A big thank you to Village Camp RV Resort for their incredible hospitality and to everyone who came from near and far to make this event so special. It was an event filled with adventure, friendship, and lasting memories—exactly what UTV Offroad Adventures aims to provide.
We’ll see you on the next adventure! Sign up today at utvoffroadadventures.com to join the ride.
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