Mastering the Art of Rock Crawling: Beginner's Course
It takes more than just a built vehicle to scale tough rock trails. We joined Mel Wade of Off Road Evolution to learn some of the finer points to becoming a rock master. For those unfamiliar with the sport, think of rock crawling like mountaineering, but in a vehicle. Whether in a capable 4x4, such as Off Road Evolution’s Jeep JK, a UTV, or a specialized buggy, there’s no way to know how much skill and finesse it takes to crawl up a mountain unless you’ve tried it for yourself. We’ve combined the fundamentals for all you aspiring crawlers out there while scaling the Hammer trails of Johnson Valley with rock master himself, Mel Wade of Off Road Evolution.
Keep these rock crawling fundamentals in mind if heading out to try it for yourself.
Trust Your Spotter
This isn’t the time to send your kid out to point you in the right direction (unless they’re experienced, of course)! A good spotter must know the vehicle’s capabilities and know how to communicate important information to the driver.
Choosing a Line
Not only must you clear the differential, you also need to visualize how to best keep all four tires on the ground. As soon as a tire loses its contact, your torque for that corner goes out the window too.
Look Ahead
More like “memorize ahead”! Knowing your line before getting there means you’re able to anticipate what maneuvers will keep your rig as level as possible. True masters have enough of the rocks memorized that they know where to go, even if backing up is required.
Don’t Be Stupid
Off-roading tests the limits of yourself and your vehicle. When walking into Off Road Evolution's shop, a graveyard of broken parts meets you. Everything can break, no matter what you’ve got. Know both your own and your vehicle’s capabilities and never trail alone.
What are you waiting for? Find a buddy, get your vehicle ready and head out for adventure!
Keep exploring Johnson Valley trails with Mel, in our Johnson Valley Trail Review for Backdoor.
Editor's Note: Original publish date of 3/26/2015 has been updated along with minor updates.
