Question
I have bought a house in the desert of Utah that is surrounded completely by gravel.  I am wanting to grow some grass but wondering if I have to rake up all the gravel?  And if no, is there a specific type of grass that is good to grow with gravel? And what steps should I take first?

Thanks

Answer
"..a house in the desert of Utah" . I have to ask. Is there enough rainfall to sustain a good-looking lawn year round? If not, do you have a plan for keeping the lawn watered? If not, that might explain the gravel surroundings.
That said, a grass, (member of the family Poaceae or Gramineae   ) is not your only choice.
A ground-cover can be just as appealing.  
Is there any kind of greenery coming up through the gravel? If there is, choose the one that you like, have it identified and find out how to grow it.
I can only refer you to your County Extension Agent who will give you the best advice on ground-cover choice. http://extension.usu.edu/.