North America’s Top Off-Road Driving Spots

For most people driving your sedan through a muddy, rocky forest would be a living nightmare. But for some, it is their Sunday afternoon pastime. Except instead of a sedan, it’s a large jeep they have been working on for years and poured thousands of dollars into.

Off-roading is a term used to describe driving on unpaved ground. This surface can be almost anything other than typical smooth pavement, including fields, riverbeds, muddy bogs, sand dunes, beaches, mountainsides, gravel, boulders and even roads that have fallen into disrepair. If it's not paved (or paved well), it's fair game for off-roaders.

Some off-roaders enjoy the natural scenery, while others love the technical challenge that driving on unpaved ground presents. Whatever type of off-roading you're into, it can be a great pastime as long as you know what you're doing.

Off road driving can take several forms. From the weekend trail rider to the die hard rock crawler, off roaders know that there are few better ways to get your jollies than taking total control of your vehicle as you take it places most people never knew they could go. Let’s take a brief look at some of the places you might find yourself when you decide to leave the pavement behind.

Imogene Pass, Colorado

Imogene pass is a popular off-roading destination for a good reason. It is the second most-elevated of any vehicle-accessible mountain pass in the state. At its peak, you’ll reach 13,114 feet. That’s still 1,000 feet shy of Pikes Peak, but there is no paved road to the top. There are places to stop for a picnic lunch, and the trail can be started in Telluride, where you can stock up on supplies. Four-wheel drive and skid plates are a must, but this is still a trail that less-experienced or beginner off-roaders could champion.

Moab, Utah

It’s a destination this list would be incomplete without. Some trails have been closed in recent years, but the area remains a must-visit destination for anyone interested in venturing off the paved path. Utah’s landscapes are among the most beautiful in the country. Sandstone formations, picturesque landscapes and serious off-road challenges are all available regardless of whether you plan to take a truck, four-wheeler, rock crawler or mountain bike.

Rubicon Trail, Northern California

There’s a reason Jeep names one of its Wranglers after this trail. It’s tough. You’d better show up with something ready to crawl over big rock slabs. If you’re properly equipped, the 20-mile trail offers a mix of difficult terrain and stunning views you won’t easily forget. If you’re going to try it out, avoid going during the Jeep Jamboree in August because it gets busy.

Off-roading can be an adventure like no other, and can lead you to some beautiful, majestic areas of North America that you would never get to experience while staying on the paved roads. Next time you decide your life is getting a little boring, give this exciting fun sport a try. You will never look at driving the same again and don’t forget to bring a camera!

Christine Belforn grew up working in her father’s auto salvage yard. She is handy with a wrench and can pick quality Used Auto Parts from Scrap Carsa name="_GoBack" with the best of them.

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