Bumps, Laughs & Lava Rocks: Sam & Ryan Take on Spiral Jetty

Published By: Extreme Motus

Bumps, Laughs & Lava Rocks: Sam & Ryan Take on Spiral Jetty

We pointed the van toward Utah’s iconic earthwork—Spiral Jetty—loaded up the Extreme Motus all-terrain wheelchair, and cranked the world’s loudest van lift. From there: rocks, banter, and a symbiotic discovery—every time the chair bonks, Sam says “ow.” Coincidence? We think not. Somehow we still reached the center for a desert-art victory lap. 🤘


What (Actually) Happened at the Spiral Jetty

  • Rocky reality check: The approach is chunky. We threaded lines, picked our way around embedded stones, and learned (again) that momentum is your friend—until it isn’t.
  • “Shortcut through the spiral”: Did we take the direct route? Sort of. Did it add drama? Absolutely.
  • Sam’s “ow” sensor: Every bump triggered a perfectly timed “ow,” like the chair and Sam shared a wireless connection.
  • Big art, bigger smiles: Standing (and rolling) inside a giant swirl on the edge of the Great Salt Lake is a mood. Even the wind felt artsy.

“If it bonks, I say ow. That’s the deal.” —Sam


Spiral Jetty, Quick Context

Created in 1970 by artist Robert Smithson, Spiral Jetty is a massive basalt-rock spiral extending into the Great Salt Lake. Water levels, wind, and light change the vibe every visit—one reason people happily drive hours to see it.

spiral jetty information plaque

Real-World Wheelchair Handling (Rock Edition)

Here’s what worked for us with the Extreme Motus all-terrain wheelchair:

  • Line choice over speed: We crawled through rock gardens to avoid front-wheel traps.
  • Spotting & signals: One person calls the line; the other powers/pushes. Clear “stop/slow/left/right” cues save energy and ankles.
  • Short bursts: Push in controlled bursts, then reset. Less spinning, more winning.
  • Brake checks: Pause on mild slopes to re-center weight and check brakes before dropping into uneven patches.

Accessibility Notes (Honest & Useful)

  • Surface: Expect uneven, rocky, and sometimes salty/muddy sections. It’s not a paved stroll.
  • Approach: The last stretch to the artwork is where the bumps live. We took it slow and scanned ahead.
  • Comfort: A supportive seat, head/neck stabilization as needed, and gloves for pushers are game-changers.
  • Plan B: Wind and glare can turn easy into spicy—build in time to bail, reroute, or just enjoy the view from a comfortable vantage point.

Every body and setup is different. Use your judgment, read conditions, and do what feels right for your crew.


Why This Trip Matters

We’re out to show what inclusive adventure looks like in real life—testing gear, sharing honest takeaways, and laughing our way through the obstacles. If you’ve got a bucket-list spot gathering dust because it feels “too hard,” we hope this nudges it into the possible column.


What You’ll See in the Episode

  • Up-close look at Spiral Jetty (and why people drive hours for it)
  • Real off-road handling on rocky terrain
  • Banter, problem-solving, and a few “family jewels” moments 😅
  • Practical accessibility insights—no sugarcoating

Tips If You’re Going

  • Footwear & gloves: Traction for feet; protection for hands.
  • Layers: Desert edge = wind + sun.
  • Hydration & snacks: There’s a whole lot of nothing (in the best way) nearby.
  • Time cushion: Give yourself extra minutes for route-finding and photo stops.
  • Respect the art & landscape: Stay kind to the spiral and the shore.

Gear Shout-Out

Extreme Motus All-Terrain Wheelchair — steady over rocks, confidence in ruts, and a front wheel that loves to lead.
Learn more: extrememotus.com


Tell Us Where to Roll Next

Got a place you want us to try? Drop it in the comments. If someone you love has a bucket-list spot, we’re game to scout it.

Subscribe for more Sam & Ryan Go adventures and behind-the-scenes hilarity.

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