Off Roading Guidelines

Avoid Going On A Trail By Yourself

If something happens to you on the trail, do you have a backup plan to get back home safely? Going alone is not a wise decision. While there may be others on many of the trails during the weekend, we highly recommend utilizing the buddy system. An extended fist indicates no more rigs/riders behind the last vehicle.

Plan Your Route In Advance

Whether you are doing a day trip, or plan to be out for multiple days, plan your trip out.  It’s not uncommon to use an off-road GPS app that’s specific to traveling on unpaved roads. It is always a good idea to bring printed maps even if you do have GPS in the event you lose service or suffer a battery failure. 

Airing Down & Airing Up

Airing down your tires before getting on a trail allows for greater traction and a smoother ride. Typically, we deflate to 15 psi depending on trail and the rig. Keep in mind that you will need to re-inflate your tires after the trail ride. Do not  drive on pavement with deflated tires for any length of time as it is dangerous and can subject the tires to premature wear. We rent air compressors which will allow you to inflate your tires, given there aren’t many gas stations near the trails in the Rockies.

Your Vehicle Should Be Safe And Properly Set Up For The Trails You Plan To Tackle

Thank goodness you are renting from us as we ensure every jeep rental is ready for the trail! We check all fluids, ensure that all equipment is functional, and visually inspect all suspension and steering components before every rental. We also install the highest quality suspension components!

Safety / Recovery Equipment

Safety is one of the fundamental cornerstones of off-roading. Having the basic safety equipment can get you out of many challenging situations. You should have the following equipment stored away in your rig: 

• A tow rope (with a tow weight capacity that can pull your entire rig and then some) 
• Snatch block
• D ring(s)
• Tree assist tow rope 
• A winch that is rated for your vehicle weight  

The good news is we supply all of this for you. But we do recommend you bring an extra set of gloves.

Food/Beverages

It is important to bring lots of water and recommend you bring a stash of food, in case of an emergency or if you want to have an awesome picnic on the trail. We recommend you bring a cooler or we can rent one to you.

Take the Right Line & Be Safe

When approaching a large rock or a rut from a previous rainstorm, you MUST think about how your vehicle will respond when it approaches the obstacle.  The rule of thumb is this:

1. Go around the obstacle if possible
2. Go over the obstacle with your tires. Don’t allow the obstacle to potentially damage the undercarriage of your rig, (e.g. oil pan, drive shaft, control arms, gas tank, etc.)
3. Straddle ruts vs. putting your tire in it. This can result in your rig high centering or possibly flipping.

Be Courteous

 

 Stay on the trail!

 

1. Going uphill - When a rig is going down hill and a rig is going up hill on the same trail, give the rig going uphill the right of way.  
2. Passing a group of off-road rigs / ATVs / dirt bikes - It’s customary that one group will pull to the side. The group that is passing will use hand gestures to signal how many rigs are behind them. 

If you have any questions, comments, or concerns about renting an off-road Jeep in Boulder, or off-roading in general, please contact John’s 4x4.