Six Off-Roading Destinations in the United States

Off-roading is an outdoor activity for car enthusiasts. It involves driving a vehicle on unsurfaced roads, often while maneuvering around natural terrain, ranging from dirt paths to full on rock crawling. If you’re interested in taking your 4×4 out on an adventure (or riding someone else’s), check out these six offroading destinations.

Alpine Loop Trail, Colo.

Located five hours southwest of Denver, Alpine Loop is an expansive 63-mile trail that’s accessible for 2WD vehicles. There are hundreds of great views to see here, including two 12,000-foot passes.

Chattahochee-Oconee National Forest, Ga.

For off-roaders in the South, Chattahochee-Oconee National Forest is paradise, whether you’re a beginner or veteran rock crawler. The terrain ranges from simple Jeep trails to miles of backcountry filled with dirt, mud and rocks.

Moab, Utah

Going back West, Moab is popular for mountain biking, hiking and rafting in addition to driving 4x4s. Like many places in the United States, some areas are closed to motorized vehicles to prevent environmental degradation, but there are plenty of off-roading trails open to the public. Beginners can also rent a Jeep or join a guided tour.

Silver Lake Dunes, Mich.

Off the shores of Lake Michigan around 500 acres of sandy hills, providing an experience found nowhere else in America. Driving on soft sand is completely different than rocks and dirt, allowing drivers to catch some nice air flying over a dune.

Rubicon Trail, Calif.

Jeep named their special Wranglers after this trail in California, a short 22 miles through El Dorado National Forest and Tahoe National Forest. It’s also no walk in the park; the Rubicon Trail Foundation restricts entry to specialized 4x4s.

Redneck Yacht Club, Punta Gorda, Fla.

For most beginners who care more about getting dirty than enjoying nature, the Redneck Yacht Club in Punta Gorda, Fla., is exactly what you need. This vehicular park has 800 acres of dirt tracks, obstacle courses and mud holes.