Beginner Off-Roading Hub

Everything you need to get started with off-roading β€” gear, safety, trail ratings, recovery basics, radios, spotting, and what to expect on your first trail run.

πŸš™ What to Expect on a Trail Run

  • We ride as a group β€” nobody gets left behind.
  • A Trail Leader sets the pace; a Tail Gunner keeps everyone together.
  • GMRS radio helps keep communication clear and safe.
  • Spotters guide you through tricky obstacles β€” go slow and steady.
  • We take breaks for photos, regrouping, and trail conditions.

πŸŽ’ Beginner Gear Checklist

Essentials:
  • Full tank of fuel
  • Air pressure gauge
  • Water + snacks
  • First aid kit
  • Phone + charger
  • Recovery points if available
Highly Recommended:
  • GMRS Radio
  • Portable air compressor
  • Soft shackles / recovery rope
  • Gloves
  • Traction boards
  • Headlamp or work light

πŸ›ž Tire Pressure: Airing Down

Lowering tire pressure increases traction and comfort.

Easy Trails
18–20 PSI
Moderate Trails
12–16 PSI
Advanced (Beadlocks)
8–12 PSI

Ask a trail leader if you're unsure what PSI to run.

πŸ“Š Trail Difficulty Ratings

  • Green (Beginner): Dirt roads, light obstacles.
  • Blue (Moderate): Rocks, ledges, uneven terrain.
  • Black (Difficult): Technical obstacles, careful lines.
  • Red (Expert): Serious rock crawling only.

πŸ“‘ Radio Basics (GMRS)

  • β€œClear obstacle.”
  • β€œHold up β€” group is catching up.”
  • β€œTraffic coming down the trail.”
  • β€œTake the right line here.”

πŸ‘‹ Spotting 101

  • Only one spotter should guide you at once.
  • Move slow β€” let the spotter set the pace.
  • Look at the spotter, not the obstacle.
  • Use hand signals β€” not verbal noise from the crowd.

🧰 Recovery Basics

  • Use soft shackles over metal D-rings.
  • Never stand in the danger zone during a pull.
  • Use frame-mounted recovery points only.
  • Communicate clearly: β€œReady?” β†’ β€œReady!” β†’ β€œPulling!”

❓ First-Time FAQ

Do I need a modified rig?

No β€” many of our events are beginner-friendly.

Will my vehicle get damaged?

Beginner trails are generally safe. We warn you if anything is risky.

What if I get scared?

Totally normal β€” we’ll help you every step of the way.