Trail Ratings


Trail Ratings Easy Easy Gravel, dirt, clay, sand or mildly rocky roads with gentle grades. Water levels low except during periods of heavy runoff. Wide enough for a single vehicle and usually wide enough to pass another vehicle on the trail. Minimum sideways tilt. Four-wheel drive recommended on most trails. Some clay surfaces may be impassable when wet.
These trails or fire roads provide a good starting point for beginners.

Trail Ratings Medium Moderate Rutted dirt or rocky road suitable for most SUVs with some obstacles that will require careful tire placement. Four-wheel drive, low range gears and high ground clearance required. Skid plates and tow hooks are recommended on most trails. Some fairly steep grades and soft sand possible. Some areas will have sideways tilt that will require caution. Trail will not always have room to pass - backing up may be necessary. Brush may rub vehicle. Water depths passable for stock high clearance vehicles except during periods of heavy runoff. Mud holes likely in the spring.

Trail Ratings Hard Difficult Some trails are suitable for more aggressive stock vehicles but most will require vehicle modification. Suspension lifts, differential lockers, aggressive articulation and/or winches recommended in many cases. Skid plates and tow hooks are highly recommended. Steep grades with sever ground undulation. Sideways tilt can be extreme. Body damage is possible. Brush may scratch sides of vehicle. Deep water crossings possible. Shelf roads can be extremely narrow - use caution in full-size vehicles. Passing may be difficult and require backing for long distances.