This is an entry level introduction to off-road driving class that is designed to give drivers intensive and immersive driving experience in a variety of off-road driving situations. Trust our instructors when they say, learning to drive off-road the hard way can be very expensive! We've all done something new at one point or another, and having a basis of understanding before you jump in can go a long way. We'll share the techniques that make off-road driving easier, smoother, more efficient, and safer. With proper training, and some practice, we'll turn these techniques into skills.
This course is for SUVs like Jeeps, Land Rovers, the new Bronco, and 4 Runner as well as compact trucks like the Gladiator and Tacoma; we're sorry but full-sized trucks are just too large for these trails. The day starts with a classroom session that breaks down and simplifies the vehicle mechanics, driving techniques, and gear needed to operate a 4x4 vehicle off-road. From there we head out into the "warm up area" where you drive one of our Jeeps for an hour with an instructor in the passenger seat. The warm-up area is 30 acres of purpose built obstacles where students can see what the driving techniques feel like on relatively high-traction surfaces. Along the way, participants learn how to work with a spotter, identify a vehicles vulnerable points, and can ask questions. Your ability to navigate the vehicle around this area reinforces the tips and helps you learn how to read the trail. After all, getting from point A to point B requires a plan and when off-roading, it's not as simple as pointing the steering wheel and hitting the gas.
Once comfortable in our Jeeps, each participant will apply what they have learned to get their vehicle ready for the trail ride (air down, recovery gear check, vehicle readiness check). When everyone is ready to go, we will form a convoy and drivers will pilot their own vehicle on one last practice lap before heading farther up the mountain, into more natural and challenging terrain. On the trail ride we will have aproximately 1 instructor to every 2 vehicles which provides ample time to ask questions, receive tips, and experience driving your own vehicle. Along the trail you will traverse dirt & gravel trails, ditch crossings, ravines, rock, and off camber situations. The challenges you encounter will be appropriate for beginner level learning, to establish your comfort in driving on a variety of surfaces.
This class is limited to 6 participant vehicles.
*Two day classes add a second day of driving which includes more time behind the wheel with more difficult trails and recovery training.
To safely travel the trails we require each vehicle to have:
