4×4 Access Only With the Best Trails Around the Country
Many hiking trailheads are easy to reach with a regular vehicle, but there are plenty of trails around the country where 4×4 access is the only way. These trails may be exclusively for off-road vehicles, but many also lead to hidden campgrounds, hiking areas, lakes, and rock climbing, among other activities.
Take On the Most Challenging Trails
Off-road trails tend to require high-clearance vehicles with 4WD and various modifications. Many models of trucks and SUVs have off-road models, but they’re usually higher up in the trim lineup. When upgrading to a capable rig, car loans are generally necessary to get the model you want.
With a well-outfitted 4×4, you can take on some of the most challenging trails in the country. One such trail is the Chihuahua Lake Trail in Colorado. It requires a 4WD vehicle with high ground clearance. Many visitors hike the first few miles of Peru Creek Road and then drive on the 4WD road to the upper trailhead.
Another legendary trail is the Rubicon Trail in California near Lake Tahoe. This trail is where the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon gets its name. It’s full of rocky paths, steep hills, and technical obstacles. Recommended 4×4 equipment includes at least 35-inch off-road tires, skid plates, and traction systems.
More Trails To Try
If tackling one of those legendary trails seems too daunting, there are plenty of other trails across the country. There are even trail apps to help you find the trails that fit your experience and rig. The Moab Trails in Utah are also quite popular and feature several diverse trails with different difficulty levels. The Hell’s Revenge and Poison Spider Mesa trails are among the top options.
Death Valley National Park in California has a number of trails in designated areas within the park. Some routes are quite challenging, including the Echo Pass and Inyo Mine Loop trails. Yet another Utah trail is in Canyonlands National Park. However, this one isn’t for beginners as it’s one of the most remote and challenging off-road spots in the country.
National and State Forests with Off-Road Trails
One of the top spots for trails in state forests is Washington. Heavily forested areas offer great opportunities for hidden gem trails. Some of these can be found in the Elbe Hills and Tahoma State Forest. The Naches Trail is an extremely scenic trail that is fairly easy for beginning drivers and stock 4×4 rigs.
Reiter Foothills State Forest in Pennsylvania also has plenty of trails to choose from, including trails for ATV riding and dirt biking. The trails have various difficulty levels and usually require a 4×4 to get to them. Another spot in the state is the Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area.
What To Consider When Off-Roading
If you’re thinking about taking your 4×4 down some of these trails, there are some things to consider. Many trails require vehicles with high ground clearance and at least off-road tires, and some appropriate equipment like skid plates. When taking trails, make sure to check for any permit or fee requirements, as well as seasonal closures.
When driving trails, remember to respect the environment, stay on the path, and pack out what you pack in. For safety, it’s important not to off-road alone, though some trails are so popular that you’ll undoubtedly meet other rigs. Be sure to bring equipment for potential hazards.