Ok, you got the 4wd vehicle with the hopes of one day getting out and exploring the great outdoors but now you really don't know where to start. There are likely a lot of questions that you are asking yourself about off-roading, your vehicle's capability, and heck even your own capabilities. Just about every off-road enthusiast started similar to where you are currently at. With that in mind, we have put together a couple Frequently Asked Questions to help get you started in finding you adventure. We are happy to help you find your adventure and get you started on exploring your journey.
The key to getting started is to not be intimidated by the other vehicles in your group. What you will find is that many people have built their vehicles over the years but that they still enjoy driving regular dirt roads and trails as well. Any reason to get out of the office, disconnect from the hustle of life, and reconnect with nature is all people need. Below are some simple questions that may get your started...
Q: What is a "Trail Ride", "Guided Trail Ride", or "Trail Run"?
These terms get used interchangeably in off-road culture, but they actually signal different levels of structure, leadership, and expectations. Defining them clearly will help you set expectations for your beginner program.
- Trail Ride - Loose - Beginner - Social, relaxed
- Guided Trail Ride - Structured - Beginner–Intermediate - Supported,
- Trail Run - More structured / goal-driven - Intermediate–Advanced - Technical, performance-focused
Q: WHAT ARE Beginner-Friendly Trail Rides with Expert Guides
A Beginner-Friendly Trail Ride with Expert Guides is essentially the safest, easiest, and most welcoming way for someone new to off-roading to get started—especially for people with stock vehicles and little to no experience.
A guided off-road experience designed specifically for first-time or inexperienced drivers, where a professional trail leader helps participants safely navigate easy terrain while building confidence and skills.
Q: WHAT LEVEL TRAIL RIDE should I sign up for when I have a STOCK VEHICLE? NO UPGRADES on it except for 4 WHEEL DRIVE?
You should start with Level 2–3 trails, and you can optionally step into a Level 4 with a guide. You should NOT plan for Level 5+ yet until you have worked your way up to it or trust the people suggesting you try a harder trail.
Q: How does the TRAIL rating system works?
At places like Southern Utah, trails are typically rated 1–10, where:
- 1–3 = Beginner
- 4 = Beginner / Low Intermediate
- 5–6 = Intermediate
- 7+ = Advanced / Expert
Q: What a stock 4WD vehicle should realistically do?
Level 2–3 Trails (BEST STARTING POINT) This is where you belong right now.
What to expect:
- Dirt roads, sand, mild slickrock
- Small ledges or obstacles (often with bypasses
- Very low risk of damage
- Focus on learning and confidence
Q: So now I know more about the what to expect on trails, but how do I meet others trying to do the same as me?
This is where we come in :) We host free monthly Meet Ups called "Ride with Rich" where you can go on easy trails and explore southern Utah like you never have before. This is perfect for meeting other drivers with similar experience to eventually go off-roading with on your own (Since you should never go alone). For those types of things, Click Here for More Details!
We also host Educational Courses, "How To's", and Guided Trail Rides during our event in October. These range from Classroom Type Settings to real world application on trail so you can be comfortable exploring. This includes how to set up your vehicle with the right recovery gear so you are always prepared for the worst, though it may never happen. Click Here for More Details!
Lastly, there are several groups on Facebook that we use to arrange meet ups and trail rides that are focused on easier trails and dirt roads. Our #1 is "Southern Utah Relaxed Explorers (SURE)" Facebook Group. This is easy to use and there is no need for an application to a club or phone app to understand upcoming trail rides. Simply ask questions on exploring and our users are happy to answer. Check it out Here!
