Could You Survive a Weekend Off the Grid?
If you own land in Utah—or you’re thinking about buying some—you’ve probably thought about what it would be like to live off the grid. But here’s the question: could you actually do it? No power, no running water, no Wi-Fi. Just you, your gear, and the land.
Whether you're prepping for self-reliance or just curious, taking on a weekend off-grid challenge is a fun way to test your limits and see what your land is really like when you strip things down to the basics.
What Does “Off the Grid” Mean in Utah?
Most of the land we sell at Mountains West Ranches is considered off-grid or partially developed. That means:
No power hookups (unless you install solar or a generator)
No municipal water—bring your own or haul it in
No sewer or septic systems unless you build one
Cell service may be limited depending on location
You’re not totally alone—many buyers use generators, solar panels, compost toilets, and water jugs to enjoy their land comfortably. But for this challenge, the idea is to keep things simple and unplugged.
The Weekend Off-Grid Challenge: Rules & Setup
This isn’t about suffering—it’s about testing what works and learning what you’d change. Here’s how to structure your off-grid weekend:
Time limit: 48 hours
No power from the grid — use solar, battery banks, or none at all
No water hookups — rely on stored water
No phone/internet unless emergency — keep it real
No leaving the property for supplies — prep ahead
Choose a weekend with decent weather. Spring and early fall work best for Utah conditions.
What You’ll Need to Pack
Here’s a basic list of what to bring to make your off-grid weekend safe and manageable:
Shelter & Bedding:
Tent, truck camper, or RV (no hookups)
Sleeping bag and pad or air mattress
Extra blankets if it’s cold
Water & Food:
5+ gallons of water per person
Non-perishable food (or cooler with ice for 2 days)
Camping stove or grill
Plates, utensils, and trash bags
Power & Light:
Lanterns or headlamps with batteries
Portable power bank or solar charger
Generator (if you want light luxuries—but use it sparingly)
Other Essentials:
First aid kit
Folding chairs
Pocket knife or multitool
Firewood and matches (if allowed)
Biodegradable wipes or a camp toilet setup
What You'll Learn By Going Off the Grid
Most landowners walk away from this challenge with a clearer idea of what they want to improve, add, or change. Some things you’ll likely notice:
How quickly you go through water
What foods are easiest to prep with limited tools
How loud the silence really is
What gear actually matters—and what you don’t need
How relaxing it is to ditch your phone
Tips to Make It a Success
Prep your meals ahead of time so you’re not scrambling
Check the weather forecast—avoid rainy weekends unless you're ready
Bring a journal or book to unwind
Set up before dark—lighting is everything once the sun goes down
Keep it simple—the goal is to learn, not to impress anyone
Want to Try It for Yourself?
Our Utah landowners love the freedom to test out their off-grid setups before committing to full-time use or development. Whether you’re prepping for a cabin build, planning a future homestead, or just want a place to disconnect, our properties give you the space to figure it out on your own terms.