On the Trail

Being  Responsible, Being  an Advocate, Being  Safe

The members of the Eastern Sierra 4 Wheel Drive Club believe in access to, responsible use of, and preservation of our public lands.  “Tread Lightly” isn’t just a slogan to us, it is a guiding principle and our objective. We obey the law and travel only in areas open to four-wheel drive vehicles on designated and open trails and roads. We strive to be considerate of others who are also enjoying the out-of-doors. Driving so as to create as little dust as possible, giving extra space to hikers bikers and horses, respecting private property, avoiding environmentally sensitive areas, not disturbing historic, archeological and paleontological sites,  camping only in approved sites, taking out what we bring in, and following  “the golden rule” are just some of the things we feel are important to being responsible users of public lands.  

We also feel responsibility to not only communicate our attitudes to others that share our avocation but also to those who do not. Every person we meet presents an opportunity to leave either a negative or positive impression as we pass. The irresponsible acts of a few have caused much of the negative feelings about OHVs. A cheerful smile, wave of a hand, polite inquiry or a brief chat can provide an opportunity to change a negative impression of motorized recreation to a more positive one 

Driving off-road will always have an element of risk. Challenging our skills and the capabilities of our rigs is part of the adventure and thrill of our hobby. While being totally safe is simply not possible, managing risk is sensible and prudent.  Reviewing the lists and links on this page for specific things to do and have on board will help you to “stay safe” while out 4 wheeling. Keeping your rig in good mechanical condition, understanding the limits of your rig and your skills, being prepared for the unexpected, being knowledgeable of where you are going and what to expect when you get there, letting someone know where you are going and when you should return, knowing when to turn back, and watching out for others are basic principles that will help manage but not eliminate the risk inherent in our hobby.