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TRAIL TRIP PREPAREDNESS TIPS

RECOMMENDED VEHICLE EQUIPMENT FOR TRAILS

As a general rule, it is a good idea to give your truck a good inspection before running ANY trail. This includes but is not limited to: suspension bolts, cooling system, check all fluids, grease drive train items, other checks that have not been done recently, etc.

Trails Rated 1-3	Trails Rated 4-7	Trails Rated 8-10
* Seatbelts (one per person)	All items from the first column, plus:	All items from the first TWO columns, plus:
* Spare tire (properly inflated; no more than 2 sizes smaller than other tires)	TWO Tow hooks (Front AND rear, mounted to frame)	Differential locker (1 minimum, 2 suggested)
Full fuel tank	Roll bar or integrated hard top	Skid plates
Proper fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake, power steering, transmission, t-case, differentials)	Limited slip/locker in good working order	Winch or Come-Along
* Drivers license/ Registration/Proof of insurance	Tire pressure gauge	Assorted spare parts
* Battery Tie-down (bungee cord is NOT acceptable)		Hi-Lift Jack
Spare fluids
Tow strap
Tow hook (mounted to frame)
CB radio or other means of communication
Fire extinguisher
Assortment of tools

 

*These items are required at a minimum by Colorado State law, or for safety reasons. Failure to have any of these items can be cause for not allowing a particular truck to proceed on any trail trip.

Here's a link to an excellent pre-trip checklist: Nutmeg 4x4 Trail Checklist

RECOMMENDED HUMAN EQUIPMENT FOR TRAILS

Prepare for the unexpected in case your impromptu stay in the outdoors lasts longer than a few hours.

Dress for high altitudes and quickly changing weather.
Wear comfortable shoes (for brush and rough terrain, sandals and flip-flops aren't your best choice.)
Make sure to wear sunglasses and a hat.
Bring along warm clothing and a water-repellent jacket/rain gear (afternoon showers are common.)

If there are children in your party, consider getting each child a whistle that can be worn around their neck. Instruct them not to blow the whistle unless they get separated from the group.

Pack a small backpack with emergency items, such as:

• High energy food/emergency food (to last each person at least one day)
• Basic first aid kit
• Prescription or allergy medications
• Flashlight
• Toilet paper
• Waterproof matches/fire-making equipment
• Gloves
• Sunblock
• Spare Pair Prescription Glasses
• Contact Lens Maintenance Kit

Some other items to carry in your vehicle:

Camera (with extra film and batteries)

Drinking water (at least a gallon)

Blanket

Fire Extinguisher

Spare set of keys secured in the vehicle
(only carry the keys you absolutely need with you on the trail)

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