Trail Difficulty Ratings

Every group, land manager, and app uses slightly different numbers and labels, but the concepts are similar. This page explains what we generally mean when we say “beginner,” “moderate,” and “difficult” on SLC Built Jeeps runs.

Green / Beginner

Beginner Friendly

These are our “first off-road trip” style trails. Usually wide dirt or gravel roads with mild ruts, shallow puddles, and gentle climbs.

  • Stock 4x4 SUV or Jeep is usually fine.
  • No mandatory rock obstacles or ledges.
  • Passing oncoming traffic is generally easy.
  • Great for learning how your rig feels off pavement.

Examples: Tibble Fork → Silver Lake Flat, Pony Express, Soapstone Basin (in good, dry conditions).

Blue / Moderate

Moderate

Moderate routes add in rocks, steeper climbs, shelf roads (drop-offs on one side), and situations where careful tire placement matters.

  • High-clearance 4x4 recommended (Jeep / Bronco / similar).
  • You may scrape skid plates or bumpers if you’re not careful.
  • Shelf roads and exposure may be intimidating for some drivers.
  • Good place to progress after you’re comfortable on beginner trails.

Examples: Mary Ellen Gulch early season, parts of Dutchman Flat, some Uintas spur roads when rutted.

Red / Difficult

Difficult / Technical

These trails are where body damage and breakage become realistic possibilities. Expect boulders, ledges, deep ruts, and tight rock sections.

  • Built rigs strongly recommended (lift, armor, larger tires, recovery points).
  • Spotters are often needed to guide tire placement.
  • Turnarounds may be limited once you commit.
  • Not the place for your very first off-road outing.

Examples: Forest Lake, Mineral Basin, harder Sand Hollow routes.

Black / Extreme

Expert Only

These trails involve large waterfalls, significant body/frame contact, and real rollover potential. They are for purpose-built rigs and experienced drivers only.

  • Not appropriate for daily drivers you need on Monday.
  • Lockers, big tires, and strong armor are expected.
  • Vehicle damage is “when,” not “if,” over enough attempts.

Note: We clearly label runs that involve this level of risk so no one is surprised.

How We Rate SLC Built Jeeps Runs

Our event listings usually include both a difficulty word (Beginner, Moderate, Difficult) and notes about specific challenges (rocky, shelf road, potential for pinstripes, etc.).

  • We rate based on average conditions, not extreme weather.
  • Snow, rain, and mud can bump a trail up a full level.
  • If you’re unsure, ask an admin or message us before registering.

When in doubt, start on the easier side. Confidence and skills are built over multiple runs, not all in one day.

Back to Education Hub Back to Beginner Hub