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There’s something magical about turning off the freeway onto a dirt road and seeing where it leads. August is here, so it’s time to plan your getaway before the summer slips away. If you have a well-equipped off-road vehicle, think about making one of the following destinations part of your game plan.
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Moab, Utah
Moab, Utah
It’s hard to imagine a more beautiful setting for an off-road adventure than Moab’s legendary red rocks. The Moab Information Center at the corner of Main and Center Streets is the place to start for up-to-date information on trails and permits. Trails range in difficulty from the relatively easy Gemini Bridges to the challenging Moab Rim.
Rubicon Trail, California
This one is not for the faint of heart. If you’re new to off-roading and want to tackle the Rubicon, consider going with a group such as the Jeep Jamborees or a California Association of Four Wheel Drive Clubs event.
The Rubicon Trail Foundation information page includes camping sites, suggested vehicle preparation, and required permits. Although the trail is relatively short, expect travel speeds to be extremely slow. An overnight on the trail might be required.
Hollister Hills Off-Road Park, California
Located an hour south of San Jose, Hollister has a little something for everyone, with trails of various difficulties and distances. Campgrounds inside the park make it easy to plan an overnight or two for several days of fun. California government’s off-road vehicle recreation site has more information.
Near Seattle
Sedona and Flagstaff, Arizona
The hardest thing about off-roading in Sedona is staying focused on the trails. With such beautiful scenery, it’s easy to get distracted. We like the Broken Arrow trail, located off Route 179. Schnebly Hill Road that parallels the paved Oak Creek Canyon road is a nice route north to Flagstaff, where more off-roading awaits.
Silver Lake Sand Dunes, Michigan
The Midwest has its share of great off-roading spots as well. Silver Lake Sand Dunes is located just a few hours from Chicago inland of Lake Michigan. It’s one of the best. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources website includes all you need to know about permits, vehicle preparation, and camping reservations.
Chattahoochee National Forest, Georgia
If your idea of off-roading is being surrounded by canopies of trees, this is the place for you. However, be sure to check the Georgia parks website before you head out since trails periodically close due to flooding.
Did we miss your favorite recommended off-road destination? Add in the comments below.
General Rules for Off-Roading
The excitement of choosing one of these destinations shouldn’t distract you from the following common-sense rules for off-roaders.
- Don’t go alone. At a minimum, have a second person in the vehicle to act as a spotter. If possible, go in a group of vehicles and make sure at least one is equipped with a winch.
- Be realistic about your vehicle’s capabilities and driving skills.
- If you find that a hill is too steep to climb, back down. Don’t turn around since you may roll the vehicle in the process.
- Go as slowly as possible but as fast as necessary. The key is control.
- Always carry an emergency tool kit, first aid kit, and off-road GPS device with trip tracking. Don’t rely on trail markings, nor expect to have cell phone coverage in a remote area.
Also read: “What Should Be in an Off-Road Recovery Kit?”
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