One of the most fun parts of hitting the trails is making a plan, having a plan lets others know where you are so if something goes wrong you can be easily located in an emergency. Planning also gives you a chance to research the area you are exploring for closed roads, camping restrictions, and alternate routes if a trail is un-passable.
Research - NPS and USFS is a great place to start to find any restrictions on your route.
Map it Out - Having a GPS and paper maps will help you find the best path, you can use a number of apps or website to help map out your trip.
Be Flexible - Dont let an un-passable trail or mechanical trouble ruin your trip. Mark alternate routes and give yourself time to adjust if something goes wrong along the way.
Join a 4x4 group that works to keep our trails open and donate your time at events working to maintain a positive image of the 4x4 community.
TRAVEL RESPONSIBLY
RESPECT THE RIGHTS OF OTHERS
EDUCATE YOURSELF
AVOID SENSITIVE AREAS
DO YOUR PART
‘Pack it in, pack it out’ is one of the original tenets of back-country travel. And, it’s a fairly simple one. We all have a responsibility to the next person and to be good stewards of the land. If you packed it in please remember to pack it out.