Trail Ratings
From time to time, folks ask, "What are these trails rated?", "Can my vehicle make it?", and "What equipment is needed to run these trails?" Well, there are lots of variables, such as driver's skill and experience, the vehicle's type of suspension, tires, gearing, and whether it has some type of traction aiding differential. The size of the vehicle may matter in some places. Some trails are very tight while others are suitable for larger rigs.
Over the years we have allowed visitors to run moderate or difficult trails in vehicles that were not sufficiently equipped, often this has resulted in body and running gear damage. It also causes long and frustrating delays on the trail because of having to repeatedly strap or winch lesser equipped vehicles over the rocks. In view of this the Club has voted to officially classify each of the trails we run, and require specific vehicle equipment for each class of trail. This may mean someone won't be able to run a certain trail, but it will limit damage and move everyone along the trail at a reasonable pace making the outing more enjoyable for everyone.
* * * Trail run leader has final decision on what vehicles can run the trail * * *
Trail Rating Guide
The following trail rating system is intended only as a guide. The one factor that can never be rated is driver experience. The ratings below assume a driver with a good knowledge of their vehicle's capabilities and dimensions, line selection, and basic accident avoidance techniques like left foot braking, correcting for a skid, throttle control, and threshold braking. This guide does not replace common sense and personal responsibility.
All of the trail classes requires tow hooks or strap attachment points front and rear and no decorative side steps or tubes.
Class 2
County dirt road with infrequent or light maintenance after rain or snow, 2WD high clearance with low gears, otherwise light duty 4WD.
Novice Driving Skills
Stock Tires
Lockers Not Needed
Class 1
County dirt road maintained for high clearance 2WD and 4WD use in adverse conditions.
Novice Driving Skills
Stock Tires
Lockers Not Needed
Class 5
Road surfaces are rutted, rocky and sandy with steps not exceeding 14", with considerable slickrock surfaces. Water not exceeding 12" with some mud possible. Good vehicle approach and departure angles are helpful. Tall tires and traction added device (lockers, limited slips) is recommended. Above average driving skills are desirable.
Intermediate Driver Skills
32" Tires
One Locker Recommended
Class 4
Road surface consisting of loose rock, dirt, and sand with some slickrock surfaces. Erosion, washes, gulches and rock steps no higher than 12". 4WD is recommended with good ground clearance and driving skills. Aggressive tires and limited slip would be a plus. Water and mud is possible.
Novice Driving Skills
31" Tires
Lockers Not Needed
Class 3
Road with frequent use, but seldom maintained. Dirt, sand and slick rock surfaces, with mud holes possible (note: maybe impassable when wet due to soil composition.). 4WD recommended under most circumstances due to ruts or wash erosion.
Novice Driving Skills
Stock Tires
Lockers Not Needed
Class 6
Roads are difficult with considerable erosion damage repaired just enough to be passable. Water in excess of 12" is possible with mud conditions. Steps not exceeding 24". Tall tires with traction added devices (lockers, limited slips) are recommended. A winch would be a plus. Enhanced suspension travel and ground clearance are helpful. Excellent driving skills are recommended.
Intermediate Driver Skills
32+" Tires
One Locker Required
Class 7
Trail consists of rock; sand and considerable slick-rock with many steps exceeding 24". Steep inclines and declines are prevalent. Enhanced off road equipment is required including locking devices (front & rear), tall tires, maximum vehicle ground clearance, and tow hooks. A winch is desirable. Excellent driving skills are required. Vehicle mechanical or body damage is likely. Roll over possibilities exist.
Experienced Driver
33" Tires
Rear Locker Required
Front Locker Recommended
Class 8
Extreme trail similar to #7 except a bit more extreme. Excellent driving skills required are required. Vehicle damage is likely. Equipment or mechanical damage is probable.
Experienced Driver
33+" Tires
Two Lockers Required
Class 10
Let the carnage begin! Buggy territory. Street driven 4X4’s should not attempt this trail. Modified factory vehicles will not be able to complete this trail.
Experienced Driver
37+" Tires
Two Lockers Required
Class 9
Extreme and beyond, similar to #8. Vehicle damage is likely. Excellent driving skills are required. Roll over is very common. Winches, spare parts and tools are recommended. Be prepared to spend the night on the trail. Beyond the capability of most modified stock vehicles.
Experienced Driver
35" Tires
Two Lockers Required