Minimize Your Impact:
- Stick to designated areas for four-wheel drive vehicles to reduce environmental impact. Check out the RIDE ON campaign for more details.
Travel Responsibly:
- Stick to official roads, trails, and designated areas.
- Drive straight up or down hills for safety.
- Navigate obstacles by driving over them rather than around them to prevent trail widening.
- Cross ruts, gullies, and washouts by straddling them, even if they are wider than your vehicle.
- Use designated stream crossing points only.
- Avoid mud when possible. If you must drive through soft terrain, ease off the gas to prevent wheel spin and rutting.
- Don’t turn around on narrow roads or steep terrain; reverse until you find a safe spot to turn.
- Regularly stop and scout ahead on foot. For better traction, balance your load and adjust tire pressure to show a slight bulge (typically not below 20 pounds).
- Be aware of the differential or lowest point of your vehicle to avoid damage and spills.
- Keep a safe distance between vehicles.
- Follow all signage and respect barriers.
- Travel with at least one other vehicle. Designate meeting points in case you get separated.
- Choose the right winch for your vehicle size and ensure it's properly secured. Inspect your equipment before use and never winch with less than five wraps of rope around the drum.
- Use a wide tree strap when anchoring to prevent tree damage.
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Respect Others:
- Respect the rights of others, including landowners and fellow trail users.
- Be courteous and follow trail etiquette.
- Leave gates as you found them and seek permission before crossing private property.
- Yield to vehicles traveling uphill and to non-motorized users like bikers, hikers, and horses.
- When encountering horses, move aside, turn off your engine, and speak to the rider for guidance.
- Proceed cautiously around horses and pack animals to avoid spooking them.
- Avoid unnecessary driving in camping, picnicking, and residential areas.
- Maintain low speeds around people and in camping zones.
- Keep noise and dust levels to a minimum.
Educate Yourself:
- Obtain travel maps and regulations from public agencies before your trip.
- Plan your route realistically and inform someone of your plans.
- Check for area restrictions, closures, and permits.
- Review the weather forecast and prepare for emergencies.
- Always wear your seatbelt. Know your limits and manage your time, fuel, and energy.
- Consider taking an off-highway driving course.
- Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained and carry essential tools, supplies, and a spill kit.
Avoid Sensitive Areas:
- Stay away from meadows, lake shores, wetlands, and streams. Stick to designated routes.
- Avoid sensitive habitats like living desert soils, tundra, and seasonal nesting areas.
- Respect historical, archaeological, and paleontological sites.
- Keep a safe distance from wildlife and livestock.
- Motorized vehicles are prohibited in designated Wilderness Areas.
- Carry a trash bag to pick up litter and ensure you pack out everything you bring in.
Do Your Part:
- Model responsible behavior and improve the area by cleaning up after yourself.
- Practice minimal impact camping by using established sites and camping at least 200 feet from water and trails.
- Properly dispose of waste or pack it out.
- Prevent unnecessary noise and maintain your vehicle to avoid creating disturbances.
- Wash your vehicle before and after your trip to prevent the spread of invasive species.
- Foster a positive trail community by connecting with other recreational users.
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