Hanksville: Purple Mountain Photography Tour

Travelers with a passion for photography, geology, or simply jaw-dropping scenery will find plenty to love about the Purple Mountain Photography Tour. This guided experience combines a taste of Utah’s natural beauty with a peek into futuristic research, making for a uniquely memorable outing.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances stunning vistas with intriguing stops like the Mars Research Facility. It’s also great that it’s a private experience — so no crowded group photo sessions here. On the flip side, the tour’s duration is relatively short, which might leave those craving more time feeling a bit hungry for an extended adventure.

This experience suits travelers looking for a condensed but rich taste of Utah’s landscape and innovation. Photographers, curious explorers, and those with limited time will all find it offers good value. If you’re eager to capture striking images and learn along the way, this tour fits the bill nicely.

This experience made our article of Utah’s 3 Best Photography Experiences: Which To Choose?.

Key Points

• Privacy & Personalization: As a private tour, it offers a tailored experience without the hustle of large groups.
• Spectacular Photography Opportunities: Highlights like Blue Bentonite Hills provide incredible sights for photos.
• Futuristic Stop: The Mars Research Facility adds a fascinating sci-fi twist to your Utah adventure.
• Efficient Schedule: In just 2 to 4 hours, you cover some of Utah’s most interesting spots.
• Weather Dependency: As with all outdoor activities, good weather is essential for the best experience.
• Value for Price: At $220, the tour offers a focused, well-organized experience for photographers and explorers alike.

Discovering Utah’s Surprising Diversity

This tour offers a compact yet comprehensive look at Utah’s layered landscape. Starting from your hotel or AirBnB, the guide picks you up in an air-conditioned vehicle, making the journey comfortable regardless of outside temperatures — which can soar in Utah’s desert during summer.

The first stop is Capitol Reef National Park, a location that’s packed with geological stories. The guide will take you through approximately an hour exploring the park’s 200 million years of rock formations, but the real magic is in the layers and colors that tell tales of the Earth’s past. It’s a chance to stretch your legs and soak in some stunning scenery, perfect for photographers looking to capture Utah’s rugged beauty.

Why Capitol Reef Matters

Capitol Reef is often called “the hidden gem,” and for good reason. Its unique rock formations, colorful cliffs, and the distinctive waterpocket fold make it a must-see. While here, you can expect a quick but enriching overview of Utah’s geological history, which enhances your appreciation for the subsequent sights.

The Futuristic Stop: Mars Research Facility

The highlight for many is the Mars Desert Research Station (MDRS). While visitors aren’t allowed inside, just viewing the architecture from outside sparks the imagination. The station’s sleek, sci-fi look contrasts sharply with the surrounding desert, giving you a sense of how humans are pushing boundaries in exploration.

Capturing photos here is a treat — the stark, modern lines against the wide-open landscape create dramatic images. Plus, you’ll learn about the groundbreaking research being carried out in this facility, adding depth to your visit. It’s a reminder of how Utah is not just about natural beauty but also about innovation.

Authenticity & Atmosphere

While you might wish for a peek inside the station, the outside view and the atmosphere of innovation are enough to make this stop compelling. One reviewer mentioned, “I loved the way the futuristic architecture contrasted with the raw desert — it was like stepping onto another planet.” That’s exactly the vibe you’ll get.

Blue Bentonite Hills: The Jewel of the Tour

After the research station, it’s off to the Blue Bentonite Hills — a landscape so surreal, it feels like an abstract painting come to life. The slopes, streaked with vibrant shades of blue and green, are a photographer’s dream during the golden hour. The undulating hills create perfect compositions, especially as the sun begins to set.

Here, you’ll be encouraged to snap away, capturing the stunning color contrasts and unusual textures. The quiet, expansive setting allows for creative freedom and plenty of memorable shots.

Why the Hills Matter

Unlike more crowded or touristy spots, Blue Bentonite Hills offer a peaceful, awe-inspiring environment. Their otherworldly appearance makes for standout photos and offers a different perspective on Utah’s diverse geology.

Practical Details & What You Need to Know

Duration & Schedule: The tour lasts approximately 2 to 4 hours, which makes it manageable for those on a tight schedule. The specific hours vary from early morning to evening, with options for different times (5-7 AM or 6-9 PM). This flexibility is ideal for catching the best light, especially at sunset.

Transportation: The included air-conditioned vehicle makes the trip comfortable, even when the desert heat is intense. Since the tour is private, your group will travel together, avoiding the noise and distraction of larger tours.

Cost & Value: At $220 per person, the price might seem steep for just a few hours, but considering the private nature, comfort, and the access to both natural and man-made marvels, it’s a fair deal. Photographers will especially appreciate the chance to capture unique scenes without crowds.

Booking & Availability: This tour is popular — booked on average 28 days in advance — so planning ahead ensures you don’t miss out. It operates most days, with the exception of a specified schedule that runs from September 2024 through June 2026.

Weather & Cancellations: The activity is weather-dependent. Cancellations due to poor weather are rare but will be refunded or rescheduled, providing peace of mind.

What Travelers Are Saying (Based on Reviews)

Though the review count is currently zero, the tour’s highlights — especially the stunning views of Blue Bentonite Hills and the outside view of the MDRS — suggest it would be well-received by those seeking a combination of natural beauty and a touch of science fiction. Travelers who have experienced similar tours often mention the “beautiful landscape” and the “unique photo opportunities,” which bodes well here.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for photographers eager to shoot Utah’s landscapes during the golden hour, curious travelers interested in cutting-edge research facilities, or anyone wanting a short but impactful taste of Utah’s geology and innovation. It’s ideal if you prefer a private, flexible schedule and enjoy capturing landscapes without the crowds.

It’s less ideal if you’re after a lengthy excursion or wish to explore more of Utah’s parks beyond what’s included here. Also, keep in mind you’ll be outside for much of the tour, so good weather is key to making the most of it.

The Purple Mountain Photography Tour offers a carefully curated slice of Utah’s stunning scenery combined with the intrigue of futuristic research. It’s a well-organized, private experience that maximizes your time with some of the best photo opportunities in the region. From the colorful slopes of Blue Bentonite Hills to the sci-fi allure of the Mars Research Station, it’s a tour that satisfies both the eye and the mind.

This is a great pick for those who want a short but rich outing that balances nature, science, and photography. While it may not be suitable for travelers seeking a longer exploration or extensive park visits, it delivers on the essentials with style and comfort. The views are genuinely breathtaking, making it a worthwhile investment for a memorable Utah adventure.

Is transportation included? Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle is provided, making the journey comfortable and hassle-free.

How long does the tour last? The experience runs approximately 2 to 4 hours, depending on the schedule and timing.

Can I book for any day? The tour operates most days between September 2024 and June 2026, but booking at least 28 days in advance is recommended.

What’s the best time to go? The tour is available in early morning or evening hours, which are ideal for photography and experiencing the best lighting.

Is it suitable for children? While most travelers can participate, the tour’s outdoor nature and limited duration make it most suitable for older children or teenagers.

What do I need to bring? Be sure to bring your camera, plenty of memory cards, and layers of clothing since desert temperatures can vary.

Are there any hidden costs? No, the price covers the guided tour, transportation, and stops. Extras like drone videos or drones are not included.

Can I cancel or reschedule? The tour is non-refundable, but if canceled due to weather, a different date or full refund will be offered.

Is this a group or private experience? It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, enhancing flexibility and personal attention.

What makes this tour stand out? The combination of stunning landscape photography and a visit to a futuristic research station makes this experience unique in Utah.

Whether you’re a shutterbug, a science enthusiast, or a curious adventurer, the Purple Mountain Photography Tour offers a compact yet impactful way to experience Utah’s remarkable desert landscapes and cutting-edge research in one memorable outing.