There is a long tradition in this country of applying names to inanimate objects. Tin Lizzie, you may recall, was the nickname given to Ford’s Model T. Some people still use the term when referring to their car. During World War II, pilots and troops would regularly give a name… Continue reading
Time for a little short-but-sweet tough love. Four-wheeling involves near constant decision making. Numerous challenges face you along the trail. Whether you successfully navigate around or through those obstacles falls entirely on your shoulders. Sorry, my friend, but you can’t blame anyone else. Not your spotter. Not your mechanic. Not… Continue reading
It’s that time of the year again. Is your Christmas shopping complete? If not, I have some great suggestions for you. These unique and practical gifts are sure to be appreciated by the outdoors person on your list. If you’re hard-pressed to find that perfect gift, look no further than… Continue reading
You probably do a good job of inspecting your vehicle before each 4WD outing. After all, you’re concerned about possible breakdowns while on the trails. But does your vehicle get the same level of attention at the end of the trip? Drivers often are anxious to leave. They figure they’ll… Continue reading
Last month I impressed upon you the importance of storing the winch controller near the driver’s seat. (Read the article here.) This month I offer an even more important reminder: Buy at least two additional copies of the ignition key. Carry an extra copy when you’re out. Whether four-wheeling or… Continue reading
Mt. Patterson was our destination that beautiful autumn day. Part of the Sweetwater Range and located on the western edge of the Great Basin, Mt. Patterson’s summit offers a commanding view of that area. The drive entails a slow climb on a one-lane shelf road. I was leading a group… Continue reading
Four-wheeling is best enjoyed in groups. (Indeed, I stress group outings for safety reasons.) At times you will be a participant. Others times you will want to be the Trail Leader. You’re proud of your skills and want to showcase the trails you enjoy exploring. Being a Trail Leader isn’t… Continue reading
If you’re a regular reader, you’ll recall that I often stress the virtues of proper packing for your 4WD trip. Having the right gear and supplies can make or break a four-wheeling experience. At the same time, taking the wrong stuff can be bad for you, your vehicle and the… Continue reading
Summer has arrived, which means the four-wheeling season is kicking into high gear. Now is a good time to inspect all your gear, including first-aid kits. First-aid kits are easy to overlook. They’re usually tucked away and tend not to get used often. But when you did need one…well, it’s… Continue reading
I had just pulled into a gas station in Big Pine, Calif. Tim and I were scouting for a trip and agreed to meet at the gas station mid-morning. Tim arrived ahead of me and was chatting with a guy. We learned that this individual, Dave, had suffered two flat… Continue reading
Over the years of off-road instructing, I have heard many concerns – indeed, fears – from newer drivers. (Even experienced four-wheelers have doubts from time to time.) The dozens of thoughts expressed by my students can be grouped into seven categories. Here are those top seven concerns, and how you… Continue reading
We had just returned from a day of 4-wheeling. Our base campsite in the Mojave Desert was a beautiful patch of lush desert with cholla, creosote bushes, Joshua trees, and Mojave yucca. Each of us headed for our tents. At one point I heard one camper yell out, “What the …?!”. He… Continue reading
