TRAIL ETIQUETTE "101"
 
  First, What is trail "etiquette"? Some of my Jeep buddies can't even say etiquette, much less what it means... but they practice it!
  Etiquette, by Webster definition is "the forms, manners, and ceremonies established by convention as acceptable or required in social relations." This definition is just a stuffy way of saying "good off-road manners" or "play nice while jeeping." In our ever-so busy world, a little good old-fashion courtesy still goes a long way.
  Second, in most cases, there are no laws regarding "off-highway etiquette". Etiquette is simply courtesy practiced for the comfort, safety, and enjoyment of all participants. There are no Trail Etiquette Police who jump out of the bushes to fine you for an infraction, nor pat you on the back for a good deed. But a good neighboor attitude will engender the sense of community among those who engage in off-road recreation.
  The focus of this article is limited to the activity of four-wheel drive recreation, and is by no means exhaustive, especially in the area of land use etiquette. So, here follows "Trail Etiquette 101". Not preachy, not enforced, just a little common sense and courtesy.
 
1. PREPARE-  Make sure your Jeep is ready for the trail! If you don't have time to prepare for the trip - - then don't go! You could get into serious trouble for not bringing the "basics"- like water. You'd be surprised how many off-roaders are out there on the trail without any basic equipment in the event there was a problem - spare tire, off-road jack, tow strap, shovel, extra food & water, (just in case). Research your intended trail route. Trails can vary widely from year to year, or even week to week if you go to Windrock. If you're not traveling with someone who is familiar with the trail, at least talk to other four-wheelers ahead of time, and research the trails rating and condition. Be familiar with the under-side of your Jeep. Spend a few minutes well before and shortly after a trail run under the jeep. If you notice a problem, do yourself and your friends a favor and fix it before you go on the trail. Check all your fluids and even carry some extra.
 
2. BE A GOOD SAMARITAN-  If you see someone in trouble, help. Even if you just pass someone sitting on the side of the trail, stop and say "Howdy, how's it going? Everything OK??"  Remember - "Do onto others, as you would want others to (hopefully) do onto you."
 
3. BE CONSIDERATE OF OTHERS- When meeting others on the trail, either coming towards you or you coming up on them from behind, slow down. Pass carefully when safe to do so. If someone wants to go faster than you, find a safe wide spot and pull over to let them by. Anytime your group needs to stop, always be looking for a spot wide enough to let others pass by safely. Remember the vehicle driving up-hill has the right-of-way. If in a "tricky" or tight situation, it may not be a bad idea to get out and discuss the best way to proceed. In most cases, it will only take about 3-5 seconds of calm analysis for both drivers to quiclky find an easy route.
 
4. DUSTING & TAILGATING- If you drive by someone on a dry dirt/gravel road at 10+ mph, you are DUSTING them. Most 4x4's are open-air, so a big cloud of dust is not just inconvienant, but hazardous if the drivers eyesight or breathing is momentarily impaired. Be considerate and mindful of what your actions cause. Turn your headlights on and watch your distances when in a dusty enviroment.
Closely following another vehicle (tailgating) is dangerous in any situation. Always allow each vehicle to traverse the tougher obstacles one at a time. Give the vehicle in front of you plenty of room to maneuver.
 
5. COMMUNICATIONS- Maintaining communications while on the trail keeps everyone informed as to what is happening. If you need to stop, for whatever reason, announce it on the CB/FRS. Keeping everyone informedmakes for an enjoyable ride. When traveling on the trail, be sure to keep the driver behind you in sight!! This way no one misses a turn. And you'll know if someone behind you is experiencing some sort of trouble. Take care, and watch out for one another. Be responsible in the use of the CB. It is vital on trail rides. If you and a buddy like to talk up a storm, use the FRS radios and leave CB channel open for "formal" chat or info. Watch the vehicle in front to see the best route to take over obstacles. Ask for help when needed - spotters can assist in difficult terrain.
 
6. TRASH-POLLUTION- ALWAYS adhere to the "Leave No Trace" ethic. "Take only pictures, Leave only footprints." Read about the TREAD LIGHTLY principles. Not only should you not take anything from the enviroment, or leave anything that was not part of the enviroment, but leave it better than you found it, whenever possible. Pick up any trash you see, even if it's not yours, and dispose of it properly - including fluid spills. If we want to continue to enjoy our trails, we must take responsibility for them. Now, for the other problem - NOISE pollution. Most everyone does not want to hear the same song you're listening to - or as LOUD. A lot of folks like the simple pleasure of hearing nature, or the scraping of rocks on their skidplates! Once again, be considerate of others.
 
*EXTRA INFO FOR TRAIL LEADERS-  Trail Leaders need to have a short drivers meeting right after everyone has aired down, disconnected, etc.  I believe that the Trail leader, at this time, sets the "tone" for the ride and helps ensure that everyone starts out on an even playing field. The other trail rides are briefed on what to expect and when, and the "rules" you like to adhere to. Also, at this time, any questions can hopefully be answered. I personally like to stagger the stock and modified Jeeps. This makes it easier to supply assistance. Trail leaders should stop at a by-pass for an up-coming obstacle, when possible. At this point, folks can walk up, check it out, and make their decision, examine possible lines to take, or to by-pass completely.
 
Some Other Common Sense

4-Wheeling Tips:
* Slow is the way to go over rough terrain (drive like there's a crate of eggs in you cargo area)
* Secure/Tie Down loose items (cooler, tool box, fluids, etc.)
* Rockcrawling?? Restart a stalled engine in Low Range - without using the clutch.
* Rock/ Stump obstacles: if you can't go around.... don't straddle it, put your tire on it and crawl over it slowly.
* Ride only where permitted.
* Yeild the Right-of-Way to horses, bikes, and hikers.
* Report illegal activity.
* While stopped and engine off - apply park brake and put in gear. Leave the keys in the ignition in case your vehicle needs to be moved and your away.
 
To conclude, remember, as your mother might say - just because someone else doesn't use good manners, shouldn't keep you from doing so. Set the example!!
And finally, (whew!!), you can't do much about the weather and conditions. However, under equiped vehicles (or drivers) and personality rubs can many times be avoided with some well thought out planning and by demonstrating simple trail manners.  I've listed some comments and ideas that i believe will make all of us better off-roaders, be it drivers or trail leaders.  If you have some other good suggestions to add, drop us an e-mail!
 
Happy Trails!!
Ray 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Our Friends:

Bill Burke's 4 Wheeling America

 

 

 

 

Swaybar disconnects are a standard feature on the newer Jeep Rubicons.  For other and/or older Wranglers there are the aftermarket units that cost anywhere from $85 up to over $400 depending upon ones taste and needs.  The cheaper units are relatively easy to install and work just as well as the more complex expensive units.  So, if your thinking about mods and offroading think about swaybar disconnects first.  If you just want "show" go for the lift kit and big tires.  It's "Sweet!".