Duck Creek Village, Utah sits high on the Markagunt Plateau, a volcanic tableland shaped by ancient lava flows, underground drainage, and dramatic cliff-forming geology. This area is uniquely suited for UTV travel thanks to its dense network of forest roads, lava tube features, alpine lakes, and overlooks that drop suddenly into canyon country. Over one weekend, we explored more than 70 miles of trails, connecting caves, lakes, waterfalls, and viewpoints—all without needing highway access.
Friday: Travel Day & Arrival in Duck Creek Village
We hit the road early Friday morning, heading north toward Duck Creek Village. The drive itself is part of the experience—gradually climbing in elevation, watching desert terrain give way to pine forest and cooler air. We hit rain along the way, but as soon as we rolled into Duck Creek, the weather cleared, setting the tone for the weekend.
By early afternoon, we were pulling into the Airbnb, unloading the side by sides, and getting everything staged for the next day.
The Airbnb ended up being perfect for our family and the way we travel. The layout gave everyone space without feeling spread out. Upstairs was a master bedroom along with a loft that included an additional queen bed. On the main level, there were two more bedrooms and a full bathroom, which worked great for keeping everyone close to the main living area.
Down at the garage level, there were two additional rooms—one with a queen bed and the other with a futon—plus a kitchenette and a full bathroom. This setup was ideal for extra guests or anyone wanting a little separation while still being part of the group.
Parking was another huge win. The property easily fit four full-sized trucks with trailers, with plenty of room left to park the side by sides when we were running around town or heading out on foot. If you travel with toys, this kind of parking is a big deal in mountain towns.
On top of that, the place was dog-friendly, which made the whole trip even easier for us.
Duck Creek Village is well known for being UTV-friendly, meaning you can legally travel on designated dirt roads throughout town without needing to load up or touch the highway.
That evening, we headed into town for dinner at Hot Mama’s Pizza & Brew. It was exactly what you want after a travel day—good food, cold drinks, and friendly staff.
Seasonal note: If you’re visiting in September or later, many businesses begin switching to winter hours. Google listings don’t always reflect this, so plan accordingly.
Saturday: UTV Trails, Lava Tubes & Mountain Views
We kicked off Saturday around 8:30 a.m., rolling right out of the Airbnb driveway and onto forested UTV trails. With the morning sun breaking through the trees and steam rising from the damp ground, the cool mountain air made for perfect riding conditions.
Bower Lava Cave (≈8 miles from Duck Creek Village)
Our first stop was Bower Lava Cave, a small but memorable lava tube formed during volcanic activity on the Markagunt Plateau. Lava tubes form when the surface of a lava flow cools and hardens while molten lava continues moving beneath it. When that lava drains away, it leaves behind a hollow tunnel.
Bower Cave is accessed via a short walk from the parking area to a narrow opening in the ground, where a ladder drops straight down into the cave. Inside, you can explore approximately 800–900 feet of lava tube. While smaller than Mammoth Cave, Bower offers a hands-on look at how these underground systems formed.
- What it is: A compact lava tube formed by drained lava flow
- How much you can explore: ~800–900 feet
- Why stop: Easy access, ladder entry, and a quick underground experience
- Tips: Headlamps required; watch footing on the ladder and uneven cave floor
Lava Flows of the Markagunt Plateau
Between Bower and Mammoth Cave, it becomes clear that lava flows dominate this landscape. The Markagunt Plateau experienced multiple volcanic events thousands of years ago, sending lava across valleys and forests. These flows shaped not only the caves but also how water behaves in this region.
Instead of flowing on the surface, much of the area’s water drains underground, moving through lava tubes, fractures, and sinkholes. This process directly connects features like Navajo Lake and Cascade Falls and explains why surface streams are limited despite high elevation and seasonal moisture.
Mammoth Cave (≈1 mile from Bower Lava Cave)
Just down the road is Mammoth Cave, the largest lava tube in Utah. This cave stretches over 2,200 feet (about a quarter mile) and contains multiple chambers and passages. The trailhead offers a larger parking area and bathrooms, making it a convenient stop.
Inside, the cave opens into a massive underground space. Once past the entrance light fades quickly, and it becomes completely dark—headlamps and backup lighting are essential. The cave floor is uneven and can be muddy in spots, but most of the cave can be walked upright. Adventurous visitors can crawl through a narrow exit opening near the far end before turning back.
- What it is: Utah’s largest lava tube
- How much you can explore: 2,200+ feet
- Why stop: Scale, accessibility, and immersive underground terrain
- Tips: Wear sturdy shoes; bring extra lighting; be mindful of seasonal bat closures
Navajo Lake (≈7 miles from Mammoth Cave)
After the caves, we rode through Duck Creek Village using dirt roads and continued on to Navajo Lake, a high-elevation alpine lake sitting just over 9,000 feet. Navajo Lake is partially lava-dammed, meaning ancient lava flows blocked the natural drainage of the valley and allowed water to pool.
The lake is relatively shallow, and water levels can fluctuate significantly depending on snowpack and seasonal conditions. Despite low water during our visit, a fishing tournament was underway, highlighting how popular this spot is for anglers targeting trout.
- What it is: Lava-dammed alpine lake
- Why stop: Fishing, camping, scenic shoreline riding
- Geologic note: Much of the lake’s water drains underground
Cascade Falls (≈3 miles from Navajo Lake)
From Navajo Lake, we headed to Cascade Falls. The trailhead has ample parking and a bathroom, and the hike is an easy 1.2 miles round trip with minimal elevation gain.
Cascade Falls is unusual because it is not fed by a surface stream. Instead, water from Navajo Lake drains underground through lava tubes and rock fractures before emerging directly from the cliff face. From there, the water continues downstream into the Virgin River system, eventually flowing through Zion National Park.
When we visited, the falls were dry—likely due to low lake levels—but the hike was still worthwhile. The exposed Pink Cliffs and expansive views toward Zion made this stop as much about geology and scenery as water flow.
- What it is: Spring-fed waterfall emerging from the cliffs
- Why stop: Easy hike, geologic features, Zion views
- Best conditions: Spring and early summer during snowmelt
Optional Stop: Duck Creek Ice Cave
If you’re feeling adventurous, the Duck Creek Ice Cave is an optional stop nearby. We didn’t visit it on this trip, but we have explored it in the past. This lava tube retains ice year-round due to cold air trapping, even in summer months.
- What it is: Permanently cold lava tube with year-round ice
- Why stop: Unique microclimate and challenging access
- Tips: Gloves, headlamps, and caution required
Strawberry Point (≈10 miles from Cascade Falls)
Our fifth and final stop of the day was Strawberry Point, a high-elevation overlook marking the edge of the Markagunt Plateau. At roughly 8,200–8,400 feet, the forested terrain drops abruptly into canyon country.
From the rim, you’re looking at the Pink Cliffs of the Claron Formation, the same rock layers found in Bryce Canyon. Below are forested valleys and drainage systems that feed the Virgin River watershed. On clear days, portions of Zion National Park are visible in the distance.
There are no guardrails or barriers, making this a place to stay aware—especially with kids or dogs. The short walk from the parking area leads directly to massive, unobstructed views.
- What it is: Cliffside overlook on the plateau edge
- Why stop: Panoramic canyon views and dramatic vertical relief
- Safety note: No railings; use caution near the edge
Evening Wrap-Up
After leaving Strawberry Point, we rode back toward town through Swains Creek Pines, winding through tall pines as the light softened and the day began to cool off. It was the kind of ride where you naturally slow down—dust settling, engines humming, and everyone replaying their favorite moments from the day.
We rolled back into Duck Creek Village and grabbed dinner at DC Pub & Grill, which turned out to be the perfect stop after a long day on the trails. The burgers hit the spot, and they treated our dogs like family, which always earns a return visit in our book.
Before heading back to the Airbnb, we made one last stop at Aunt Sue’s Chalet for pie. After hours of riding and exploring, that slice of pie was exactly what we needed to officially call it a day.
Back at the Airbnb, we were completely spent—but in the best way. Gear was piled by the door, boots kicked off, and the conversations kept going as we talked through the caves, the views, and everything we managed to fit into one full day. It was the kind of exhaustion that only comes from a really good adventure.
Final Thoughts
This Duck Creek Village UTV route combines volcanic geology, underground exploration, alpine water features, and cliffside views into a single, rideable loop. With over 70 miles of trails, minimal highway interaction, and a wide range of terrain, it’s an ideal destination for families and experienced riders alike.
If you’re planning a UTV trip in southern Utah, Duck Creek Village offers one of the most geologically diverse and accessible riding areas in the state.
Thanks for coming along—and as always, keep adventuring.