Driving Techniques

Here are a few tips for beginners to 4-wheeling, or reminders for experienced drivers, that may help out on the trail. Also, check out these Tread Lightly videos.

1. Always take the trail slowly, it's called rock crawling for a reason.
2. Always keep your tires on top of the rocks. Keeping your tires on top of the rocks increases your ground clearance.
3. Always drive with all your fingers on the outside of the steering wheel. Off-road driving can jerk the wheel and injure your fingers.
4. If you get stuck, try turning your wheels right and left to gain traction.
5. Never be affraid to ask for a spotter to help you.
6. In off-camber situations, slowly turn your wheels in the direction your vehicle is tipping and it will right itself.
7. When crossing deep water and driving over steep hills, always get out and see what the trail is like before proceeding.
8. Air down your tires to enhance your traction.
9. Avoid using your brakes when going down hill. Instead of mashing down on them, lightly feather them and keep the vehicle in the lowest gear.
10. Lastly, the most important rule, always pack out what you pack in. Never leave trails covered with trash and never drive on undesignated trails. This behavior can lead to trail closures and ruin the sport for yourself and others.

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