MODERATE
4wd low range required, difficult terrain, some steep grades but no major rock obstacles, trail tires needed but stock suspension ok, challenge for novice drivers. Possible paint or body damage.
Vehicles: Any 4wd with low range, including stock SUVs with trail tires.
DIFFICULT
More difficult trail: Very rugged terrain. Loose gravel, large pot holes, steep inclines, boulders, possibly all combined. Low-range 4-wheel drive necessary. Difficult for stock vehicles. Higher than stock ground clearance required. Lockers or limited-slip differentials highly recommended. Aggressive tread required and low air pressure may be needed. Above average off-highway driving skill required. At least one member of the party should have a high-lift jack. A winch could also be helpful. Likely paint damage, possible vehicle body and/or mechanical damage.
Vehicles: Any modified 4wd or SUVs with trail tires and at least a mild lift, limited slip or rear locker.
VERY DIFFICULT
Most difficult trail: Extremely rugged terrain. Very steep inclines, large boulders, potentially dangerous situations. Not possible for stock vehicles. High level of off-highway driving skill required. Highly modified vehicle required, including lift, lockers, and over-sized tires. Likely paint damage, possible vehicle body and/or mechanical damage. Possibility of rollover. At least one member of the party should have a winch.
Vehicles: 3 to 4 inch lift, 33″+ tires, locker in rear, limited slip or locker in front, winch, extra gears.
Trail conditions change, and something what is hard for one driver might be easy for another, even if they are driving the same vehicle. A rainstorm might make an easy trail impassable, or a hard one easy. So rating trails is tough. Be aware that conditions can change and the experience level of the person doing the rating may be different from yours. While we’ve tried to make this system useful, take these or any rating methods with a grain of salt – use our ratings as guidelines only. So rating trails is tough. Be aware that conditions can change and the experience level of the person doing the rating may be different from yours. While we’ve tried to make this system useful, take these or any rating methods with a grain of salt – use our ratings as guidelines only.