For fans of off-roading, there are two considerations when
taking to the dirt and rocks of off-road driving: safety and ecology. Safety
starts with having the right equipment-a Vehicle that's designed for uneven, unpredictable
terrain and tough, dependable tires that can take the punishment of dirt,
rocks, ravines and more. And by following ecological guidelines, you can help
ensure that trails will be enjoyable for other adventurers.
Safety Tips:
. Inform someone of where you are going and when you expect
to return.
. Make sure your vehicle has plenty of fuel.
. Ride at safe speeds for existing conditions.
. Travel straight up and down hills-never traverse the face
of a hill; it may cause your vehicle to slip sideways or roll over.
. Cross large rocks or other obstacles slowly, at an angle,
one wheel at a time.
. Cross ravines at a 45-degree angle.
. Only cross streams at a designated fording point.
. Never turn around on narrow roads, steep terrain or
unstable ground.
. Avoid stopping in tall grass or brush, which can be
ignited by engine heat.
. Reduce tire pressure to improve traction in tough off-road
conditions.
It's the Ecology
. Drive only where permitted.
. Keep a trash bag in your vehicle and collect litter left
by others.
. Ride in the middle to minimize the widening of the trail.
. Avoid slide slipping and wheel spin to prevent erosion.
. Keep away from wildlife.
. Steer clear of sensitive habitats: wetlands, meadows, tundra, etc.
. Steer clear of sensitive habitats: wetlands, meadows, tundra, etc.
. Clean your vehicle after the ride to reduce the spread of
noxious weeds.
. Observe proper sanitary waste disposal.
Top Trails
To highlight some of the best off-road trails in the
country, BFGoodrich Tires, in conjunction with Tread Lightly and United Four
Wheel Drive Associations, has launched its Outstanding Trails program. The
program is dedicated to the responsible use and preservation of these off-road
trails and will aid in the effort to keep these trails sustainable.
'Last year, more than 50 million people sought adventure
through recreational off-road driving; the sport is exploding in popularity,'
said Kaz Holley, brand director for BFGoodrich Tires. 'Each one of the trails
highlighted in this program is amazing, and embodies the very best in
off-roading. BFGoodrich tires and these Outstanding Trails are very similar in
nature-both are tough and both are fun to drive on.'
The program identifies five of North America's best trails.
From desolate desert stretches to towering peaks and rolling hillsides, these
trails are unique in toughness and beauty.
After a careful selection process, five of North America's
'outstanding' off-road trails were nominated for uniqueness, terrain type and
enthusiast following:
Black Bear Pass, near Ouray, Colo., is a picturesque trail
nestled in the San Juan Mountains.
Pyeatt Draw, a scenic and exciting trail situated in Payson,
Ariz.
Hell's Revenge, with its slick sandstone slopes, brings
adventure to thrill seekers in Moab, Utah.
Historic Naches Pass, also known as the Longmire Wagon
Train, takes off-road drivers over the Cascade Mountains in Naches.
Upper Tellico Trail, Trail four, located in the Nantahala National
Forest, is located in an area where Tennessee, North Carolina and Georgia meet.
As a part of the program, BFGoodrich Tires will host several
events at designated trails to highlight the uniqueness of each location as
well as to educate off-roaders on the responsible use of each trail. The
company will also give a grant to a selected off-road club to help with the
costs associated with the trails' conservation.
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