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When we four-wheelers decide to get away, we often think, “Boy, it would be nice to go someplace remote.” That is, get away from it all, escape the rat race, and all that. But, what does “remote” really mean? Is there just one definition? Or, might it mean something different for each person? At the risk of sounding too philosophical – I think it’s worthy of some discussion. What is “remote,” and what does it mean for you as you consider traveling to such a location? During a recent class, I surveyed the group about what they valued in the outdoors. The number one quality was solitude: Enjoying the peace and quiet found in the open spaces. Spending quality time with friends and family was also high on the list. How far do you need to go? Some folks are content to be just outside a developed area. Someplace where they can get away from the noise but yet be a short drive to civilization. Others prefer to drive several hours or more from the nearest services. Some people are content to bring along the creature comforts of home (think heaters, refrigerators, CD/DVD players). Others prefer to have nothing come between them and Mother Nature. Paul May, owner of Equipt Expedition Outfitters www.equipt1.com in Salt Lake City, says “remote to me is to travel where others seldom do, whether that is by distance or difficulty." He considers these to be among some of the remote locations:
Those are good suggestions. When I think of remote places, I imagine the Rubicon Trail, the north rim of the Grand Canyon, and many areas of Death Valley National Park (aka Saline Valley). (Yes, all these places are in the Lower 48. I understand that vast chunks of Alaska and Canada are really remote. Just haven’t been there.) While getting away from it all may sound attractive, remember that such places are inherently hazardous. Chief among these is that help could be hours away. You not only are a long distance from a major city, but you could be out of communication range, as well. A fellow driver may need to travel a great distance just to make a call. Weather is often an issue. It can be too hot or too cold at times. A blizzard or storm can roll in unexpectedly. You also need to watch out for bugs and critters. In the desert, the cacti can be surprisingly nasty. See “Prickly Things In The Desert Can Put A Hole In Your Plans.” Should you avoid remote areas? Of course not. Just plan accordingly. Pack your vehicle properly. Make sure you have first aid supplies – take a first responder’s course, if possible – and make sure you have sufficient supplies – in both quantity and type. Take along extra communication gear. This can include a satellite phone and ham radio gear, in addition to your cell phone. Always – and I mean ALWAYS – travel with others. Never travel to a remote area alone. Having that extra vehicle, and the other riders, can literally be a life saver. How do you define remote? It doesn’t matter. What’s important is that you and your friends enjoy your trip and return with only good memories. # # # # # |
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Related Articles from Badlands Off-road Adventures |
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Did you miss the previous article? |
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Easter Safari April 18, 2011
Sign up for Easter Safari April 18 to 22, 2011 It seems a long ways away, but all the trail rides are assigned by lottery. The submission date for the lottery is somewhere about the end of January to mid February. Most hotels, RV parks and camp grounds need to be reserved this month. They are all close to being sold out. So if you think you might want to go to the Easter Safari this year with Badlands Off-Road Adventures, you need to register soon at http://4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#EJS. A few pictures: http://4x4training.com/images/Moab/Moabpicture.html Check out http://4x4training.com/Adventures/EasterSafari/EJSMain.html You can register directly at http://www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#EJS |
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Wilderness First Aid Course Jan 29 & 30, 2011
There are a few more slots left for this clinic. If you sign up by Jan 17th, we will be able to give you your certifications on site ( assuming you pass the test!). You can still sign up after Jan 17, we will mail you your cards and certificates. Because we feel this knowledge is extremely valuable if you travel into wilderness areas and outside the 911 EMS areas, we prefer that no slot goes unused. Note - this is a two day class and you must be at least 18 years old. If you are interested follow these links. More Details... You can register directly at http://www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#WFA Note: Badlands Off-Road Adventures, Inc. is the sponsor for the Wilderness Medical Associates' WFA course using WMA certified instructors. http://www.wildmed.com/ |
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February 2011In February you can catch up on your driving skills. We have 3 of our more popular advanced classes scheduled this month.
March 2011
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Rocks Clinic February 05, 2011
The February Class will be in Johnson Valley. This is an introduction to Rock crawling but it is not on "baby" rocks. We take out time and stress careful wheel placement. We use spotters for difficult sections. You learn by inspecting the obstacle and predicting the line; by watching others try their line; by experiencing it yourself; and by the coaching. We recommend you repeat the training several times. You will be much more relaxed the second time over the same obstacles and you will pick up on little details missed the first time. More Details... You can register directly at http://www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Rocks |
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Sand Clinic February 19, 2011
More details... Register for the Sand Clinic using this link. http://4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Sand |
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Winch Clinic February 26, 2011
This one day clinic starts with the basics. By the end of the day you will be safely rigging some complex recoveries. It is held near Mojave, CA. More Details... You can register directly at http://www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Winch |
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| Back | | Phone 310-374-8047 |
