Critical Learning

Lambs in the wilderness. I've come across many of them, and you probably have, too. These are folks we find hopelessly stuck in the backcountry--high-centered on a rock, wedged in a V-ditch or, more commonly, buried to the fenders in mud.

The common denominator comes down to inexperience in offroad travel. Believe me, getting your education when you're miles into no-man's land is no way to learn the basics of trail-running.

Folks who get themselves into these pickles have only themselves to blame. The misplaced bravado leading to these unfortunate circumstances comes from a false sense of security. Novices wrongly assume just because they drive a 4WD truck or SUV they are impervious to mishaps. What they don't realize is 4WD is merely a tool. Like any tool, it is worthless unless the person behind the tool has a good working knowledge of how to use it.

As with most skills of the practical (versus academic) nature, learning how to effectively negotiate rough country in a 4WD vehicle means getting out there and doing it. The key is to get your schooling in a low-risk environment.

Over the years I have enjoyed many off-road adventures in the company of 4WD enthusiasts participating in organized trail rides. Folks from all backgrounds and experience levels get in on the action, and pilot a wide assortment of rigs ranging from bone-stock SUVs to built-to-the-hilt pickups. My greatest pleasure has always been starting off the day with a handful of off-road newbies and watching their transformation from hesitant driver to confident trail negotiator by day's end. While perfecting one's 4WD craft is a lifelong endeavor, what you can learn in a day while in the company of trail veterans will astound you.

I wanted to write about this now because it's mid-summer and, if you fall into the novice off-roader category, you have plenty of time before hunting season begins to gain the skills and confidence you need to safely roam the backcountry this fall.