For the first time in its five-year history, United by Bronco (UBB) delivered dedicated trail days built specifically for the United by Bronco community. Hosted in Hurricane, just outside St. George, this year marked a major milestone: Bronco Sport owners had their own curated trail experiences, designed to showcase capability, build confidence, and strengthen the rapidly growing Sport community.
The turnout was fantastic with many friends joining in, it’s obvious that Bronco Sport owners are ready for more. From Big Bend models to Badlands, even a Sasquatch, drivers of every experience level showed up ready to explore Southern Utah’s signature terrain with their own kind, including at least one first time off-road owner.
Day One: Warner Valley Exploration
The first Sport trail day, held on the second official day of the event, sent the group toward the wide-open beauty of Warner Valley. The route offered a dynamic mix of sandy and rocky two-tracks, steep climbs, and descents that tested drivers’ nerves while staying comfortably within the Bronco Sport’s capabilities.
Traffic was nearly nonexistent. The only interruptions to the peaceful desert morning were cows and horses grazing across the valley floor, the true locals of Warner Valley. This was a sharp contrast to the construction and new homes encroaching on the public lands. Luckily, there are groups protecting the area and fighting for continued access to trails such as Utah Public Lands Alliance (UPLA).
Mid-morning, the group paused at the historic Fort Pearce ruins. The outpost was established by Mormon settlers during the Black Hawk War (1866–1873), a period of conflict between settlers and Native American tribes. Standing among the stone remnants, it was easy to imagine the isolation and resilience required to survive in such rugged country. Here, we had the chance to get to know each other and trade stories of modifications and why we prefer the Bronco Sport.
After exploring the site, our group did something even more exciting, we pioneered a new route.
Breaking off near the Fort Pearce trailhead, the line ventured into terrain featuring wash crossings, increasingly rocky climbs, and technical descents. Although designated in spots as Open OHV, the group stayed on existing trails. As the route narrowed and brush began to close in, we made the smart decision to turn back and reconnect with the main trail.
From there, we crossed over the main road to the northwest side of Warner Valley and tackled steep clay hills that added a fresh challenge. With traction management dialed in and spotters doing spotter stuff, the Sports handled it all with confidence. Smiles were everywhere.
After lunch, the group connected with Arizona Strip Road and cruised back into Hurricane by early afternoon, dusty, accomplished, and already talking about what the next day would hold.
Day Two: Sand, Slickrock & “The Chute”
Friday shifted the focus to sand. The group rolled out from the “tanks” or also known as Waddy’s Corral at 8:15 a.m., heading toward the iconic overlook known as Top of the World. The panoramic views provided the perfect photo opportunity before dropping down toward the dunes. Incredibly enough, there is also a backcounty bathroom available, with funding from UPLA that we took advantage of.
Once in the deep sand above Sand Hollow State Park, drivers had the opportunity to test their rigs with instruction from the trail leaders and then they were set loose in a small area with a few dunes. Momentum, tire placement, and throttle control became the lessons of the morning.
A few vehicles got stuck, including a Ford Ranger Raptor, but each recovery was quick and controlled. In fact, that Ranger Raptor was promptly rescued by the trail leader… driving a Bronco Sport. It was fun and good natured teasing, knowing that everyone eventually gets stuck.
After plenty of sandy shenanigans, the group transitioned to slickrock terrain and made their way to an obstacle known as “The Chute.” While the Sports paused for lunch, several full-size Ford Bronco models that had joined the group lined up to attempt the steep, seemingly vertical climb. One by one, three Broncos conquered the obstacle successfully, earning cheers from the crowd.
Following lunch, the Sports returned to the sand, descending toward Sand Hollow Reservoir and traveling along the fence line back to the tanks where the day began, completing a loop that showcased just how versatile and fun these vehicles truly are.
A Big Win for Bronco Sport
Overall, UBB delivered a well-organized event filled with afternoon activities, community meetups, and a vendor show on Saturday. But one thing stood out clearly: the overwhelming demand for more Bronco Sport trails at this, and other, events.
Owners appreciated having routes specifically designed for the Sport’s wheelbase, ground clearance, and driver demographic. The trails were challenging but achievable, educational but fun, exactly what this growing segment of the Bronco off-roading community has been asking for.
With the enthusiasm shown this year, there’s strong hope that UBB will expand Sport offerings next year, possibly adding an additional dedicated trail day and welcoming even more Sport owners into the fold.
If this year was any indication, Bronco Sport isn’t just showing up anymore. Owners are becoming more club focused and looking for more opportunities to mix together with the larger Bronco community.
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