The Bentonite Hills are one of those rare places that instantly become a stand out location the moment you visit.
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The fact that the current Mars Research Station is situated here speaks volumes about the uniqueness of the Bentonite Hills. With its breathtaking landscape and fascinating history, this is a must-add to your Utah bucket list.
If you’re looking for a quick read, I’ve compiled a breakdown of everything you need to know before your visit, at the end of this post.
- BENTONITE HILLS LOCATION
- HOW TO GET TO BENTONITE HILLS
- DO YOU NEED A 4x4
- HOW ARE THE BENTONITE HILLS FORMED
- CAN YOU WALK ON THE BENTONITE HILLS
- PHOTOGRAPHING THE BENTONITE HILLS (AND SHOULD YOU BRING A DRONE)
- MARS DESERT RESEARCH STATION
- ACCOMMODATION
- WHAT IS BLM LAND IN UTAH
- EVERYTHING YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOU VISIT
BENTONITE HILLS LOCATION
The Bentonite Hills are nestled in the Mars-like terrain of southern Utah. The nearest town is Hanksville, and reaching the hills requires a 40-minute drive, one way.
HOW TO GET TO BENTONITE HILLS
To get to Bentonite Hills from Hanksville, follow Utah State Route 24 until you reach North Cow Dung Road (yes, you read that correctly). Turn right, this is the road that will ultimately lead you to Bentonite Hills.
For the location of where I took all of the images in this post, you’ll find it here: 38.413012, -110.786136
DO YOU NEED A 4x4
Cow Dung Road is a rough dirt road, but based on my experience, a 4WD isn’t necessary. However, my vehicle was high clearance, which for this drive you will definitely need as the terrain is very rocky. I was fortunate to visit during the dry season, but if there’s been recent rain, it’s wise to double-check the route before setting out.
HOW ARE THE BENTONITE HILLS FORMED
The Bentonite Hills owe their existence to layers of volcanic ash that were deposited millions of years ago. Over time, these layers transformed into bentonite clay, a material that swells when wet and shrinks when dry. The hills’ vibrant hues—ranging from reds to purples—are a result of the varying mineral content within the clay.
CAN YOU WALK ON THE BENTONITE HILLS
Yes, you can walk on the Bentonite Hills, but it’s crucial to do so with care. These hills are incredibly delicate, it’s important to tread lightly to preserve the fragile landscape. While you’re free to explore, tread lightly to minimise your impact.
Fortunately, there are existing tracks that others and animals have made and are easy to spot. I highly recommend staying on these trails as by sticking to the established paths, you can enjoy the beauty of the Bentonite Hills without disturbing the sensitive clay formations.
PHOTOGRAPHING THE BENTONITE HILLS (AND SHOULD YOU BRING A DRONE)
Photographing the Bentonite Hills is a dream for photographers like me. The best time to capture the hills is during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset when the low-angle light enhances the vivid colours and deep shadows. Dusk is also as equally stunning and the change of light bring out different hues. While you can take stunning photos from the ground, I’d suggest to bring a drone. It really does provide breathtaking aerial perspectives, showcasing the full scope of the terrain and the surroundings.
When I visited in the afternoon, there were only a couple of others around and all were camping (Yes! You can camp here, more details below). Due to the remote location I found that it was very quiet, and with a large amount of space to play within it’s likely you’ll get a lot of the area to yourself. So if you’re looking for a remote experience, you’ll definitely get it visiting Bentonite Hills.
If you can only manage to visit during the day but still want to see those incredible colours, invest in a ND filter, this will help bring out the colours of the hills, so it looks like you’ve been there during sunset or sunrise.
MARS DESERT RESEARCH STATION
There is a reason why the Mars Desert Research Station (MDRS) is located within the Bentonite Hills. Operated by the Mars Society, this facility simulates the conditions of Mars to prepare for future human exploration of the Red Planet. While the MDRS itself is not open to the public this is the closest place on earth that has resemblance to the martian landscape, making you feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet.
ACCOMMODATION
Given the remote location of the Bentonite Hills, there is no accommodation directly on-site. However, as mentioned earlier you can camp at the Bentonite Hills. This is Utah BLM land, so you are free to stay here and there is no payment necessary. When I visited there were two groups camping overnight.
That said, if you are looking for a stay that includes four walls, I would suggest Cathedral Valley Inn along State Route 24. As I was travelling solo from Bryce Canyon and also had Moonscape Overlook on the list of places to visit, this accommodation was the best choice as it was relatively close to both. If you’re looking for a spot that’s a little more occupied Hanksville also offers a few lodging options.
WHAT IS BLM LAND IN UTAH
BLM land in Utah refers to public land managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). It’s open for everyone to enjoy, offering vast, natural spaces perfect for camping, hiking, and exploring. These areas are usually undeveloped, giving you a chance to experience Utah’s stunning deserts, canyons, and mountains raw and untouched. Just remember to explore responsibly and leave no trace.
EVERYTHING YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOU VISIT
- Reception is limited so make sure to download the area as an offline map on Google Maps.
- Bentonite Hills really do look like what you see on social media – those hues are incredible.
- Best time to photograph is during golden hours and dusk; bring a drone for stunning aerial shots.
- Make sure to pack decent shoes, walking on the clay can be a bit slippery.
- You do need a high clearance vehicle.
- North Cow Dung Road is the road you’ll need to follow to get to Bentonite Hills.
- A high-clearance vehicle is recommended; 4WD not necessary unless wet.
- The hills are formed from volcanic ash layers, creating vibrant clay hills.
- Make sure to walk gently on existing tracks to preserve the landscape.
- There is free camping here as it is on BLM land.
- For accommodation stay nearby at Cathedral Valley Inn or explore options in Hanksville.
- Not far from the Bentonite Hills is also where you will find the Mars Desert Research Station.
In this post, we’ve covered everything you need to know for your visit to the Bentonite Hills. From how to get there to its geology, you’ll find all the essential details here. Whether you’re a photographer, adventurer, or simply curious about the Mars Desert Research Station, the Bentonite Hills are a must-visit destination. Just make sure to tread carefully and enjoy this unique landscape.
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