Challenge Trailrides

by Chad Ison

A Challenge Trailride is probably unlike anything you'll ever encounter. It is a family-oriented, four-wheel-drive outing that's fun for all ages. The Challenge Trailrides are held throughout numerous states and are not competitive events. Each event is designed for all levels of drivers - from beginners to the experienced. Challenge Trailrides are set up for all types, makes and models of licensed and insured 4-wheel drive vehicles. It is not necessary to have a "hard-core" or highly modified 4-wheel vehicle to participate. However, you may want to talk with your local dealer and discuss your Trailride choice. Your vehicle may need special equipment in preparation for some of the harder trailrides.

Most Challenge Trailrides begin on a Thursday evening, with late registration on Friday morning, and finish Sunday afternoon. Trailrides are set up to help individuals discover the backcountry. You'll go places impossible to see or appreciate from the highway. To get to these places, you'll follow unpaved roads, trails and paths. You'll learn how to use your 4x4 vehicle in challenging off-highway situations while making new friends along the way. Many of the trails you'll encounter on a Trailride are only available through these events. Passengers are welcome on Trailrides. Some Trailrides may be limited to a certain number of vehicles, so it is suggested that you register early. The fee for registration is $165 for adults (13 and over); $80 for ages' 3-12; and no charge for children two and under. Fees go to cover meals throughout the event, all necessary permits, door prizes, entertainment, and experienced guides for the entire trip. Cancellations and refunds can be given if received up to two weeks before the starting date. No alcohol, drugs, fireworks or firearms are allowed. Any violation of this rule will mean expulsion from the event and forfeiture of entry fees.

Every effort is made to make trails as safe as possible and to provide the proper training for 4-wheeling off-road. Participants should follow closely the instructions given by trail guides and spotters. However, there is a possibility of damage to your vehicle when traveling over rough terrain.

Recommended Equipment

All 4-wheel drive vehicles come ready for off-highway driving, but the following equipment is required for all trails rated four and above:

- Front and rear tow hooks, properly mounted. Drawbars or receiver hitches are acceptable as an alternative for rear tow hooks.

- Skid plates covering the gas tank and transfer case.

- Full-size spare tire.

- Heavy-duty nylon tow straps (20,000 pound minimum) with looped ends (no hooks).

- First Aid Kit

- Fire Extinguisher

- Full tank of gas each day

- CB Radio - Optional

To get under obstacles, Trailride officials recommend that vehicles have no lift kits over seven inches or tires over 36 inches. They will accept taller vehicles if they are properly lifted, but extra tall and extra wide vehicles may not be able to go on certain trails.

Every Challenge Trailride is set up with a choice of up to nine trails daily with ratings from 1 to 10 (the most difficult). Ratings are based on the overall trail and not on one or two rough spots. Rain can increase the rating by one or two points.

Trail Ratings

1 or 2: These trails are very mild and many do not require the use of 4- wheel drive (4WD).

3 or 4: These trails are moderate trails in which 4WD is required.

5 or 6: These trails mean you could encounter mud holes, climb small rocks, and experience more difficult 4-wheeling conditions.

7 to 9: These trails present the possibility of getting stuck. Mud holes here will be deep and extreme. Rock climbing takes on bigger proportions. Lockers and winches are required.

10: You'll do things on this trail that you never thought possible in your 4x4 vehicle. There may be places where you have to winch vehicles up. Lockers and winches are required.

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