BASICS OF OFFROADING & OVERLANDING

Off-roading and overlanding are outdoor hobbies that combine adventure, exploration, and the challenge of traveling beyond paved roads. Off-roading usually involves taking a capable vehicle onto dirt roads, forest trails, rocky terrain, mud, or other areas that require more than everyday driving skills. Overlanding takes that adventure a little farther by combining off-road travel with camping and exploring more remote destinations. I enjoy this hobby because it gives me a chance to get outdoors, explore new places, and get away from everyday routines. There is something exciting about finding a dirt road, seeing where it leads, and experiencing places that you might never see from the highway.

For beginners, one of the most important things to remember is to start simple and learn what your vehicle can handle before attempting difficult trails. You don't need a heavily modified vehicle or expensive equipment to begin.

Tips for beginners:

• Start with easier dirt roads and trails before taking on the trails that require more experience.
• Learn how the four-wheel drive and different settings work in your vehicle before going out on a trail.
• Work on gradually building your skills and confidence; this won't happen overnight.
• Acquire some basic recovery and emergency gear to keep in your vehicle, such as a recovery strap, tire repair kit, first-aid kit, extra water, and maybe a mobile air compressor.
• Get yourself set up with some form of navigation tool that works offline or satelite.
• If going alone, let someone outside know what area you will be exploring in and about what time you expect to be back by.
• Research the trails beforehand so you know what to expect.
• Pay attention to weather and road conditions in the area you will be travelling.
• Respect closures and private property.
• Follow the 'Leave No Trace' principles.
• Most importantly, have fun, enjoy the adventure, and remember to respect the outdoors.

OUR STORY

Our journey into off-roading actually started after a pretty major turning point in my life. I went through some serious health issues that required multiple brain surgeries and going through that completely changed my perspective on a lot of things. Once I finally came out on the other side, I decided it was time to start doing more of the things I always wanted to do. I dyed my hair an auburn color, got my nose pierced, and said goodbye to the typical “mom car” and bought a four-door Jeep Wrangler.

At first, the Jeep was simply something I had always wanted, but it quickly became so much more than that. We started venturing down dirt roads and exploring different trails throughout Central Oregon, curious to see where they would take us. The farther we explored, the more we discovered places that many people who live here never get the opportunity to see: hidden lakes, mountain views, remote campsites, and miles of backcountry away from the crowds.

What started with buying a Jeep turned into a genuine love for off-roading and exploring. There’s a sense of freedom that comes with leaving the pavement behind, especially after going through an experience that reminded me how quickly life can change. Off-roading became a way to explore more, make memories with my family, and experience a completely different side of the place we call home. And somewhere along the way, I became a little bit of a Dirt Junkie.