If you stop to think about it for a second, the sheer variety of terrain in the United States is incredible. Add in a capable Jeep® vehicle and that Go Anywhere, Do Anything™ attitude that Jeep enthusiasts have and, well, let’s just say the off-road possibilities are endless. Given how many trails and areas there are to visit, we thought we’d start listing some of our “must visit” off-road destinations* and keep a running list going for reference. If you have any that you think should be included, let us know.
Essential Off-Road Destinations
1. San Juan Mountains (CO) – Southwestern Colorado, in the heart of old mining country, is home to some breathtaking (and breathtakingly difficult) trails, including Black Bear Road, which starts at the summit of Red Mountain Pass on Highway 550 between Ouray, CO, and Silverton, CO. Full of notorious, narrow switchbacks and with a sign that reads, “You don’t have to be crazy to drive this road – but it helps,” Black Bear Road isn’t for the faint of heart. Luckily, the region is full of trails, passes, and other routes easy enough for a novice.
2. Laurel Highlands (PA) – The Laurel Highlands region in western Pennsylvania’s Allegheny Mountains is a muddy delight. Home to one of our favorite Jeep Jamborees, the Laurel Highlands features beautiful trails that weave in and out of the trees and brush. But it’s the mud that really gets our wheels going, as you might be able to tell from our photos.
3. Superlift ORV Park (AR) – This private off-road vehicle park in Hot Springs, Arkansas, features trails rated one to five diamonds in difficulty – there’s something for everybody. Cabins and a campground on site and the nearby Catherine’s Landing RVC outdoor destination (400 acres and a mile of waterfront on Lake Catherine) mean that a comfortable and fun stay is available, no matter how you want to do it.
4. Oceano Dunes (CA) – You can find almost any kind of terrain your heart desires in California, so we’ll highlight a dune area here. The Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area in Pismo Beach is recognized as the “most extensive coastal dunes remaining in California.” It’s hard to beat the ocean scenery and the various recreational activities that await you when (well, if) you put your Jeep vehicle in park.
5. Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest (GA) – This northern Georgia gem is gorgeous and features trails of all difficulties. The two U.S. national forests cover almost 900,000 acres and the U.S. Forest Service maintains over 80 trails. Be prepared for rivers, creeks, dirt trails, rock hill climbs, and gravel – in other words, be prepared for an amazing experience.
*Please always remember that rock crawling and off-road driving are inherently dangerous activities. Always take proper precautions and exercise discretion before attempting off-road driving, including driving within your ability and experience, using appropriate harnessing devices and having proper safety gear ready.