Every have one of those trips when, after arriving at the campsite and unpacking, you realize you forgot something important? You smack yourself along the side of your head and say, “Jeez. How could I forget that??!!”
Photo Gear
It happens to everyone at some point. Even to me. That’s why many years ago I started using a checklist. I have several, but for this article I want to impress upon you the value of developing and using a checklist. One is enough, though it can be rather comprehensive. The benefits of using a checklist are very clear:
You’ll depart confident that you remembered to pack everything you were supposed to, and your packing goes quicker. A checklist brings order to your packing, so you’re not scrambling around haphazardly.
Create Your Checklist
Your checklist need not be fancy. Create a list in Word or Excel, and print it out before each trip. Having the file on your computer allows you to quickly add or change items as needed before or after each trip. That keeps you from having to develop a new list before each trip. Merely open the existing file, make any changes that come to mind, and print it out. It’s that simple.
The format is totally up to you. It can be a simple list with checkboxes before the items so you can check off each item. One page will be easier to use, so if need be, create two (or more) columns to accommodate all your items.
Group your items into categories to make it easier to review them. Some suggestions for categories include:
-Vehicle Essentials (oil, tool kit, tow strap, tire repair kit, for example.)
-Camping (tent, sleeping bag, pads, chair, firewood, etc.)
-Reference material (trail books, emergency package, shrub and tree book, as well as paper and pencils.)
-Food and food preparation (stove, grill, gas, cooler, matches, pot holder, or camp box, if most of that is in there.)
-Clothes (for warm and cold weather, toiletries, medicines, etc. )
-Last In (frozen food in freezer, cell phone, lap top, meds, etc. )
You get the picture. I recommend you also have a category titled Miscellaneous. This group includes a hat, extra pair of glasses or readers, extra key, cell phone charger, binoculars and so on.
Military grade first aid kit
Some categories could be seasonal. A Winter category, for example, might include snow shovel, snow chains, and other relevant gear.
Don’t have a checklist yet? Start one by visualizing yourself in the situation. Take for example, Camping. Make a camping checklist that lists all the items you can think are needed to establish shelter and bedding for a comfortable night. Visualizing pounding in the stakes – put a hammer on the list. Are your tent stakes and poles bundled with the tent? If not, put them on the list.
Update Your Checklist
Keep in mind that your checklist is an evolving document. During your trip, feel free to write notes in the margin if you think of items that didn’t come to mind initially. Along those lines, if you have room on the page, create a space just for notes. When you see or think of a better item to bring, write it down.
In this area you will also record supplies that need replacing. During the course of your camping trip, you may run out of salt, pepper, coffee, Band-aids, or other basics. Jot a note in the open section of your checklist. That will save you from having to dig through your supply boxes or camp box later to determine what needs replenishing.
After arriving home, pull up the file on your computer and make the necessary changes. Then your checklist is ready to go for the next trip.
Final Thoughts
The key is to use the checklist. Print it out before each trip, and review it item by item as you are packing. Don’t gloss over this step because you’ve used the list several times already. The point is to keep you from forgetting items. If you don’t pay attention to your list, you’ll forget something. Then you’ll be kicking yourself.
Yes, this equipment is brand spanking new. Ours is not as pretty…but the components are the same.
Another important point is that you don’t check off an item until it’s in your vehicle. All too often we see an object (perhaps in the garage) and think, “OK, it’s in.” We assume we’ll toss that into the vehicle in a moment. Well, you know what happens? Yep. We forget. Remember: Nothing gets checked off until it’s in the vehicle.
Over time a checklist will become as much a part of your supply kit as a tent and sleeping bag. You’ll become so accustomed to using a checklist that you won’t feel comfortable packing your vehicle without it. Believe me; a checklist adds tremendous peace of mind to the trip. Develop and use a checklist for your vacations.
Check out all of Tom’s training clinics, adventures, and events at www.4x4training.com. Tom is based out of Southern California.
Here at TAP we’ve used various off-road trailers over the years and through lots of trial and error, have become reasonably proficient with them. This hasn’t come without dents, scratches and blood sweat and tears. We have particularly fond memories of taking two trailers up the eastern side of Cerro Gorda in Death Valley, where we got ourselves off course and spent an hour reversing our way back out through a rock garden. Couple that with the fact the trail had been washed out by a winter storm and a 5 mile trail took 5 hrs. Exhausting yes, fun….yes! Here’s an article that we wished we’d read many years ago.
Deciding to Purchase and Drive an Off-Road Trailer
Many overlanders find the convenience of owning an off-road trailer appealing. Trailers can enhance your overland experience by:
– Allowing you to transport more supplies into the backcountry for an extended stay.
– Making the camping experience more convenient and comfortable.
– Allowing you to unhook and leave your trailer in the backcountry, while making day trips away from camp with a lightly loaded vehicle.
– Minimizing preparation for an overland trip (especially if you keep your trailer loaded and ready to go at a moment’s notice). For the most part, there are four basic camping configurations for vehicle-supported adventures (yes, there are hybrids).
You may camp from a:
1) Vehicle (tent directly on vehicle or on the ground).
2) Highly modified, standard size vehicle with a bed inside.
3) Trailer (roof-top tent directly on the trailer, tent on the ground, or sleep inside the trailer – as in a teardrop trailer).
4) Larger RV-type 4WD vehicle.
The advantages of camping with an off-road trailer vs camping directly from your vehicle:
-Weight distribution
-The ability to keep a trailer loaded between trips
-Practical use of your vehicle when not overlanding.
Advantages of traveling with an off-road trailer vs a larger, self-contained RV-type 4WD vehicles (Sportsmobiles, EarthCruisers, EarthRoamers, Unimogs, etc.)
Trailers are:
– Are less expensive.
– Allow you to use your towing vehicle as a daily driver when not overlanding.
– Can travel on just about any trail the towing vehicle can.
– Some of the larger RV-type 4WD vehicles, with their long wheelbase and high center of gravity, can’t travel on really narrow, off-camber, or extremely challenging trails.
Disadvantages of traveling with an off-road trailer vs a larger, self-contained RV-type 4WD vehicles (Sportsmobiles, EarthCruisers, EarthRoamers, Unimogs, etc.) Trailers are:
– Less secure from wild animals and human predators.
– Less comfortable overall.
– RV-type 4WD vehicles are best for escaping bad weather and provide a more comfortable camping experience.
– Make camping in parking lots or along highways awkward.
– 4WD RVs can be used with sheath when overnighting along a highway or in city parking lots.
Basic Features of a Solid Off-Road Trailer
When purchasing an off-road trailer, look for these basic features (admittedly, some of these are the author’s opinions).
– Built specifically for off-road use. Construction, clearance, camping- Same size tires and wheel bolt pattern as tow vehicle’s wheels
– Articulating hitch – 360 degrees of rotation and 3 axis of movement; Lock-n-Roll, MaxCoupler. Avoid the Lunette and Pintle hook combination; noisy, difficult backing up
– Utility beyond overlanding
– Recovery Point(s) on the rear. Ideally a 2” receiver on rear of frame/bumper
Driving With a Trailer
When confronted with a technical stretch of trail, off-roading with a trailer can be challenging – very challenging. Towing an off-road trailer successfully and safely requires an entirely new set of driving skills. You have to “re-program” your mind since you now have six wheels on the ground. In a turn, each wheel takes a different path on the trail. Hairpin turns (tight switchbacks) on narrow, rocky trails are a real challenge. These skills cannot be taught with words. The only way to acquire these skills is to practice; you need to actually drive with a trailer over challenging terrain.
New skill acquisitions aside, here are some suggestions for off-road trailer use and driving.
-Practice at Home. It’s very easy to spend most of a day practicing with a new trailer if you are inexperience. Practice loading the trailer, backing up, parking, setting up camp, changing a tire, and lifting the trailer with different jacks in a variety of ways. -Trailer Weight and Balance. Keep the load in your trailer light and balanced. Put heavier items over the trailer’s axle. If you have a “nose” box at the front of your trailer, try to keep the weight in this box light. If you have a battery in this box, keep that weight in mind when balancing your trailer’s load. Generally, I try to place the trailer’s front to rear center of gravity just forward of the trailers axle line. I also try to keep the trailer load balanced from left to right.
– Tow Vehicle Weight and Balance. An off-road trailer should allow you to travel with less weight in and on top of your tow vehicle. When I load the tow vehicle, I put heavier items in the middle of the vehicle, off-setting the tongue weight of the trailer and avoiding overloading the rear axle.
-Lower Tire Pressures for Off-Road. Off-road, lower the pressure in your trailer’s tires. Just like in your towing vehicle, a lower pressure in your trailer’s tires will provide your trailer with a more “relaxed” ride. Have some mechanical compassion for your trailer when driving over rocky trails and washboard gravel roads. A lower pressure in your trailer’s tires will also allow the trailer to easily float over already traveled terrain by the tow vehicle. Some say to lower the tire pressure in a trailer below that of the tow vehicle. I lower my trailer’s pressure to what I have in my vehicle. -Trailer Drag. Crossing rocky or uneven terrain with a trailer causes drag on the tow vehicle. Those driving this type of terrain with a trailer need to learn how to drive with both feet, modulating the brake and throttle pedals together as needed. Obviously, driving an automatic transmission is easiest when towing a trailer over challenging terrain.
-The Hi-Centered Trailer. It’s easy to get your trailer hi-centered on large rocks when on a challenging trail. If you do, one solution is to use a Hi-Lift Jack to lift the trailer off the offending rock or terrain. Once up in the air, you can try pushing the trailer laterally off the obstacle (letting the jack fall – dangerous) or build up terrain under the lifted wheel to assist the trailer up and over the offending object. – Downhill Driving. When driving down slick and slippery hills, use 4WD-low gearing. If your vehicle has hill descent, use it. Further, you can apply your trailer’s electric brakes (if you have them) to slow your descent. Solo trailer brake application can also straighten out the trailer and towing vehicle should it begin to swing sideways and jack-knife. With most trailer brake controllers, you can manually apply just the trailer’s brakes with a lever from the driver’s seat.
-Whoop De Doos. Be cautious of quick “ups and downs” on the trail (aka whoop de doos). Even small ones can be hazardous. When towing an off-road trailer, don’t forget the first and most important rule of off-roading: Go as slow as possible and as fast as necessary. Taking a whoop de doo too fast is bad enough without towing a trailer, but it can be very hazardous when towing. Whoop de doo washouts on fast-paced gravel roads are of particular concern. -Deep Gully Crossings. Crossing a deep gully, you can get you very stuck. This is especially true if the gully has a steep down, little level terrain at the bottom, and then a quick up. At the gully’s bottom, the trailer hitch will dig deep into the ground, possibly getting you stuck. If the downhill slope of the gully is slippery, the trailer may slide sideways due to it’s own weight. If you get stuck in a gully, be prepared to winch out. -Use Your Winch Over Challenging Terrain. If you plan to tow a trailer off-road, have a winch on your front bumper and use it regularly. Rather than stressing the driveline of your tow vehicle when driving over challenging terrain, use your winch to pull your entire rig gently up and over. -Side Winching with a Hi-Lift. Learn how to winch with a Hi-Lift Jack. Although I have never put my trailer on its side or rolled it over, I’ve come real close. I have, however, helped another driver get his off-road trailer back on its wheels. To accomplish this, we used my Hi-Lift Jack as a winch to pull his trailer sideways and back up on its wheels. Even though he had a powered winch on his front bumper, this method of righting his trailer was easiest.
-Use Spotters. Because the tires of your trailer take a different path than your vehicle, use spotters to help you successfully navigate around and over difficult obstacles. -Rims and Tires. Use the same rims and size tires on your trailer that you use on your tow vehicle. If you do, you’ll only have to carry one spare. Further, the same size tires on your trailer will often give you similar axle clearance as your tow vehicle (a vehicle geometry you should already have “programmed” in your brain). Your trailer’s rims don’t have to “look” like those on your vehicle; they simply have to have the same bolt pattern.
-Hub-Centric Wheel Adaptors. If you want to use a rim on your trailer that has a different bolt pattern than its hubs, you’ll need wheel adaptors for your trailer’s hubs (or you need to purchase all new trailer hubs with the correct bolt pattern). In most situations, the adaptors and spacers for trailer hubs need to be of the hub-centric type (as opposed to lug-centric adaptors). Make sure you ask an expert before purchasing wheel adaptors for your trailer hubs.
–Highway Towing. While towing on the highway: 1) Watch your speed. The extra weight of an off-road trailer will lengthen your stopping distance. 2) Some states require chains on trailer wheels if the trailer axle has brakes.
Whether you are considering purchasing an off-road trailer or you already have one, taking a minute to think about what you need to brush up on in order to ensure that your next off-road adventure is as stress free and safe as possible is time well spent.
Article and photos by Bob Wohlers
About the Author: Bob Wohlers is the owner of Off-Road Safety Academy and teaches corporate, government, and recreational off-road safety, survival, and wilderness first aid courses. As a registered government contractor, he teaches courses for the National Park Service and BLM. Currently, Bob teaches monthly introductory and advanced recreational off-roading at Prairie City, a California State Recreational Vehicular Area (SRVA). He also organizes and leads groups on 4WD adventure tours into the remote backcountry. www.discoverOffRoading.com
Welcome to TAP’s Ultimate Off Road Trailer Buyer’s Guide. Below you will find listings for a variety of off road trailers. All the information in this guide is accurate as of Winter 2019, but prices, designs, and options may vary at any time. This information comes directly from the trailer manufacturers and is not the result of TAP’s personal testing or opinion. The tables contained within the guide list all of the manufacturers off road trailer models as well as their prices, weights, whether or not a kitchen comes standard and they are roof top tent compatible. There is also a space noting options, as many manufacturers provide a “menu” of add ons for the prospective buyer. So, enjoy the guide and TAP into Adventure!
Designed and built by Into The Wild Overland in Colorado, the Boreas Campers are a true off-road and off-grid camper. With heavy duty Timbren Axel-Less Suspension, steel frame, oversized all terrain tires and not a sliver of wood thanks to our in-house composite panel system, these trailers are hungry for exploration. Here is a link to all Boreas XT Options/Specs
itwoverland.com, info@itwoverland.com, (720)-515-2762, Located in Arvada CO
Model
Type
Price: Fully Loaded with specs listed above
Weight
Kitchen Standard
Options
RTT Compatible
Boreas XT
Teardrop
$27,200.00
1,950 lb
Yes
Yes
Yes
Manufactured in the USA
Schutt Industries is America’s leading manufacturer of industrial and military grade cargo handling equipment. It’s long history of engineering high-quality sophisticated solutions for the most demanding military implementation has earned Schutt Industries a prestigious brand name as the go-to source for its world-class products used by every military branch. XVENTURE is simply the finest product of its type ever to hit the consumer market. From toy hauling to a full-slide out galley system XVENTURE has you covered. We have different sized trailers depending on your needs so go explore our models today to find the right trailer for you. All of our trailers are backed with a USA-made 10 year factory warranty. This is a no compromise must-have piece of equipment for the overlanding off-road professional and enthusiast alike. Be part of the legend today. Xventure is built in Clintonville, WI at the Schutt Industries headquarters.
goxventure.com, sales@schuttindustries.com, (715)-823-8025, located in Clintonville, WI
Model
Type
Base Price
Weight
Kitchen Standard
Options
RTT Compatible
XVenture-XV2
Cargo
$14,995.00
1200 lbs
No
Yes
Yes
XVenture-XV3
Cargo
$9,995.00
850 lbs
No
Yes
Yes
XVenture-XVF
Cargo
19,995.00
2,500 lbs
No
Yes
Yes
Manufactured in the USA
At turtleback we put a lot of time, effort, testing and care into our builds in order to give you the ultimate off-road trailer. Whether it be for a single individual or a family-sized group, customize your pop-up trailer and enjoy a wide-range of home amenities on your next adventure. Speaking of adventure….one of the great perks of creating a camping trailer business is the chance to create a community of folks with similar interests. Turtleback Trailers is excited about our camp outs and our “Herd of Turtle Gatherings”. These events are for present Turtleback Trailer Owners or for those who are considering becoming part of the “Herd”. We’ll be putting on outings every few months to experience a few nights out under the stars in fabulous locations. At these events we can reconnect with friends, share our exploits from past adventures and have new experiences to create new tales. Once again, we offer the finest crafted camp trailers in the USA. Turtleback Trailers are made for North America and all it has to offer. They are well equipped for both four season usage and for durability. Pride of craftsmanship and engineering are proven in every trailer, today and for years to come. (Financing available.)
turtlebacktrailers.com, info@turtlebacktrailers.com, (855) 732-2383, located in Phoenix AZ
Camping made simple and comfortable for the whole family. Instead of tent camping, enjoy the comfort and convenience of camping in a four season Teardrop Trailer. Its compact size and welded structural aluminum cabin is designed to last generations. The welded steel frame, with steel skid plate can support a torsion axle or upgrade to independent suspension with Timbren. With our articulative hitch option you’ll be able to go up and through those ravines and over the rough terrain.
A Colorado Teardrop Trailer is a perfect choice for camping with kids, too. The interior is designed for maximum storage and spacious sleeping for the whole family – even the family dog. The galley is well-planned and contains enough space for gear, cooking, ice cooler and all the amenities you need to get a good meal before your good night’s sleep. Colorado Teardrops is a family-owned business, born out of our love for camping and adventure. We craft our amazing trailers from the finest materials in Boulder, Colorado. We want your trailer to last through decades of adventure for you and your family. Colorado Teardrops’ new designs are unique and formed from the lightest, strongest, longest lasting materials with thick insulation for Moab summers and Colorado winters. Please inquire for used models for sale. coloradoteardropcamper.com, (720)-432-6817, contact form on site, located in Boulder CO
Model
Type
Base Price
Weight
Kitchen Standard
Options
RTT Compatible
Basedrop
Teardrop
$11,300.00
955 lb
No
Yes
Yes
Canyonland
Teardrop
$13,500.00
1100 lb
No
Yes
Yes
Mount Massive
Teardrop
$18,000.oo
1,629 lb
galley
Yes
Yes
The Summit
Teardrop
$21,500
1850 lb
galley
Yes
Yes
Manufactured in the USA
Are you tired of tent camping? Does the idea of climbing up and down the ladder of a roof-top tent in the middle of the night give you pause? Do you want a custom expedition teardrop at a fair price and within a reasonable timeframe? If the answer to any of these questions is YES, then the smart choice is the BRX1 from Blue Ridge Expedition Trailers.
Our BRX1 Expedition Teardrop is handcrafted in the USA and built from the ground up with utility and quality in mind. We are proud members of the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) and have an average delivery time of less than six months from down-payment to delivery.
We offer the BRX1 in three different models, the A4, Limited & Platinum. Each of our models come standard with many features that are often either paid options by other manufactures or not offered at all. Our standard features include:
Powder coated steel frames and structural steel fenders
XL Expedition gear box with locking inset doors and dual slide outs
Timbren 3,500 lb. HD Axel-less suspensions
Up to 20” of ground clearance
Electric Brakes
All LED lighting
Dual-locking cabin doors with screens
Hardwood cabinetry throughout
Galley slide outs for cook tops and refrigerators
6” Memory foam mattress
Large stainless countertop
Three stabilizer jacks
2” Accessory receiver
Choice of interior finishes and exterior colors
brxtrailers.com, info@brxtrailers.com,(336) 383-1001, located in Lewisville NC
Model
Type
Base Price
Weight
Kitchen Standard
Options
RTT Compatible
BRX1-A4
Teardrop
$22,950.00
2,400 lbs
Yes
Yes
Yes
BRX1-Limited
Teardrop
$25,750.00
2,450 lbs
Yes
Yes
Yes
BRX1-Platinum
Teardrop
$28,250.00
2,450 lbs
Yes
Yes
Yes
Manufactured in the USA
Each trailer is hand built in Ohio. We offer many trailer options for the weekend warrior up to the veteran overlander. We build each trailer to order and offer many options that can be added over time or bought as a complete package. Our trailers are constructed from our custom extruded, fully welded aluminum materials, providing light weight, superb strength that will last a lifetime.
Our small expedition trailers use Timbren 3500# HD Axle-less suspension with the ability to match the trailer hub pattern to any vehicle and certain models run up to a 37” tire. We use a fully adjustable height coupler with the option to use ball (Standard), Pintle or Lock N Roll hitch. 7-way RV style plug and electric brakes are standard. Back-up light is standard and we use LED lighting throughout. An extended tongue and aluminum tongue box are included. Gas struts are used for the lid and lockable compression latches provide a weatherproof seal.The latches and tailgates are keyed alike. All hinges, vents and hardware are stainless steel. Options include: Solar, deep cycle or Lithium batteries, 110v inverter, propane, cooking and shower modules, heat & AC, Fridge/Freezer, electric tent height adjustment, RTT, awning and slide out trays. Our trailers can be painted to match your vehicle with many single color and custom colors options available.
nuthouseindustries.com, info@nuthouseindustries.com, (513)-899-2342, located in Morrow, OH
Model
Type
Base Price
Weight
Kitchen Standard
Options
RTT Compatible
Beachnut
Box
$11,592.00
900 lbs
No
Yes
Yes
Hickory
Box
$11,999.00
1150 lbs
No
Yes
Yes
Peanut
Box
$12,724.00
1350 lbs
No
Yes
Yes
Hazelnut
Teardrop
TBD
TBD
Yes
Yes
Yes
Acorn
Toy Hauler
$22,850.00
3700 lbs
No
Yes
Yes
Mixed Nuts
Toy Hauler/Internal Living
$69,900.00
11,500
Yes
Yes
No
Manufactured in the USA
New from Highland Expedition Outfitters for 2019 – The All Aluminum HEO T4. Fully loaded with features you’d expect for your expedition adventure such as CFX50W Dometic fridge, 15 gallon fresh water tank, Camp Chef Summit cook stove, pantry, Stainless Steel sink basin, FlexoPower off grid solar system, Queen Size HEO Bifold Hard Shell RTT, 11 pound propane tank, aluminum tongue box, 2m x 2.5m straight awning with awning room covering the kitchen area, full size rear sliding cargo tray, independent suspension with 16 inches of clear span ground clearance, 3,500 pound spindles, Lock ‘n’ Roll 3 axis coupler, full size spare tire and more. All of this comes standard on the HEO T4. Each HEO T4 Expedition Trailer is hand built in the USA to the same specs as the trail proven and reliable HEO T3. Production models available April 2019.
heoutfitters.com, heoutfitters@gmail.com, (423)-608-6628, located in Crosby TN
Model
Type
Base Price
Weight
Kitchen Standard
Options
RTT Compatible
HEO T3
Box frame/Expo
$8,750.00
600 lbs
No
Yes
Yes
HEO T4
Box frame/Expo
$20,000.00
1,100 lbs
Yes
Yes
Yes
HEO T5
Box frame/Expo
$12,00.00
960 lbs
No
Yes
Yes
Manufactured in the USA
TEARDROPS NW
We build rugged, custom teardrop trailers that go wherever adventure awaits. Enjoy the outdoors and stay cozy. Our trailers offer a smooth ride on the highway or in the wild. We can customize a teardrop just for you, whether you want a sleek trailer with modern or retro appeal — or a tough trailer that can take whatever’s around the next curve in the road. Our high-grade components and rigorous quality control ensure your travels are always safe and fun. We also offer lots of accessories to make your campsite the perfect home base for exploration. What can we build for you?
teardropsnw.com, contact form on site, (503)-385-1227, located in Salem, OR
Model
Type
Base Price
Weight
Kitchen Standard
Options
RTT Compatible
Scout 5’x8′
Teardrop
$14,578.00
1,500 lbs
No
Yes
Yes
Recon 5’x8.5′
Teardrop
$16,078.00
1,700 lbs
No
Yes
Yes
Ranger 5’x9′
Teardrop
$16,989.00
1,800 lbs
No
Yes
Yes
Commander 5’x10′
Teardrop
$17,889.00
1,850 lbs
No
Yes
Yes
Manufactured in the USA
“Life in a ‘Drop” began for us in 2008, when TCTeardrops was established. At that time, our friends became our customers, and to this day our customers still become our friends. As any good friend would do, we ask the questions that determine what you want in a trailer. Choose from a variety of models and sizes, including our new Overland Package, for exploring the backwoods. Take your adventures to the extreme – reliably and comfortably – with an Off Road Expedition (ORE) package. We build trailers, but more importantly we build relationships.
tcteardrops.com, info@tcteardrops.com, (715)-842-0920, located in Wausau WI
Model
Type
Base Price
Weight
Kitchen
Options
RTT Compatible
Standard
4’x8′
Teardrop
$5,600.00
750 lb
Yes
Yes
Yes
5’x8′
Teardrop
$6,600.00
850 lb
Yes
Yes
Yes
5’x9′
Teardrop
$7,300.00
950 lb
Yes
Yes
Yes
5’x10′
Teardrop
$7,800.00
1,050 lb
Yes
Yes
Yes
Overland
4’x8′
Teardrop
$6,700.00
850 lb
Yes
Yes
Yes
5’x8′
Teardrop
$7,700.00
950 lb
Yes
Yes
Yes
5’x9′
Teardrop
$8,400.00
1,050 lb
Yes
Yes
Yes
5’x10′
Teardrop
$8,900.00
1,150 lb
Yes
Yes
Yes
Off Road
4’x8′
Teardrop
$8,300.00
950 lb
Yes
Yes
Yes
5’x8′
Teardrop
$9,300.00
1,100 lb
Yes
Yes
Yes
5’x9′
Teardrop
$10,000.00
1,200 lb
Yes
Yes
Yes
5’x10′
Teardrop
$10,500.00
1,300 lb
Yes
Yes
Yes
Manufactured in the USA
The standard features of the To Extreme Off-Road Trailers makes them perfect for all overland camping adventures! Our trailers are manufactured in the USA using CNC laser cut and formed 11 gauge steel, yet light enough to pull with nearly any SUV or truck. Each unit comes equipped with UL-lined fenders and frame, Powder coated body panels, a Timbren axle-less suspension package, over 20 inches of ground clearance, premium B-F Goodrich off-road tires, an adjustable cargo management system, a forward cargo rack, a lockable tailgate, and a 2” rear receiver. With two available sizes, 60” or 72”, you can pick the trailer that best meets your needs. Along with lockable lid options, multiple roof top tent and awning varieties are available also. We have provided you with the necessities and there is plenty of room for additional options to be added. Affordable, high quality, and designed to go anywhere you would like to go.
Mini Camper. Big Adventure. When simplicity, ruggedness and beauty collide you get an Escapade Backcountry! We set out to create a versatile all-terrain trailer that would give you everything you need without the price of everything you don’t. Escapade Campers are professionally built using high quality non-toxic materials. With a lightweight and aerodynamic design, Escapade Campers are built to get you into nature. Whether you’re cruising the open road or traveling off the beaten path Escapade Campers are designed to handle any terrain. Choose from one of our standard all inclusive models, or use our custom build feature and have us build your Escapade the way you want it!
escapadecampers.com, contact form on site, no phone number listed, located in Dassel MN
Model
Type
Base Price
Weight
Kitchen Standard
Options
RTT Compatible
Escapade Your Way
Box Frame/Expo
varies
varies
No
Yes
Yes
Backcountry
Box Frame/Expo
$8,850.00
1,450 lb
No
Yes
Yes
TrailPass
Box Frame/Expo
$9,950.00
1,400 lb
No
Yes
Yes
Manufactured in the USA
So-Cal Teardrops produces the finest “Teardrop Trailer!” From mountains, to desert, to beach, we have the model for you. A road, crossover, or off-road trailer will get you to camp in comfort and style! With the ability to be towed just about anywhere, So-Cal Teardrop Trailers are ideal for the camper that likes to get away from the crowds.
These tiny, towable, airfoil-shaped trailers that were all the rage in the 1940s and 50s. Eclipsed nearly half a century ago by hefty RVs and motor- homes, these streamlined tag-alongs have made a big comeback among the camping crowd. The Teardrops’ resurgence has grown out of a need for a light camper that can be towed by a smaller, more fuel efficient vehicle, with a comfortable bed for two and a galley, both sheltered from the elements. So-Cal Teardrops has painstakingly re-engineered the “original” Teardrop trailer, with modern materials and technologies, while maintaining a hand fit and finish. All models come standard with all the items listed in this FACT SHEET. All trailers are manufactured in Upland, CA. Delivery to the Continental U.S. is available. Come by and visit us. You can also call or e-mail us today to get your trailer “rolling” and become one of the many “Happy Campers” to own a So-Cal Teardrops trailer!
socalteardrops.com, info@socalteardrops.com, (909)-982-1199, located in Upland CA
Model
Type
Base Price
Weight
Kitchen Standard
Options
RTT Compatible
Crossover
Buzzard 4×8
Teardrop
$12,135.00
650 lbs
Yes
Yes
Yes
Kascade 4.5×9
Teardrop
$16,135.00
1,250 lbs
Yes
Yes
Yes
Kascade 5×9
Teardrop
$16,635.00
1,325 lbs
Yes
Yes
Yes
Kascade 5×10
Teardrop
$17,385.00
1,400 lbs
Yes
Yes
Yes
Kascade 5×11
Teardrop
$18,135.00
1,475 lbs
Yes
Yes
Yes
Off Road
Buzz Off 4×8
Teardrop
$13,225.00
1,000 lbs
Yes
Yes
Yes
Krawler 4.5×9
Teardrop
$17,725.00
1,250 lbs
Yes
Yes
Yes
Krawler+ 4.5×10
Teardrop
$18,475.00
1,350 lbs
Yes
Yes
Yes
XS 5×10
Teardrop
$18,975.00
1,400 lbs
Yes
Yes
Yes
XS 5×11
Teardrop
$19,725.00
1,600 lbs
Yes
Yes
Yes
Manufactured in the USA
What does “unplug” mean to people today? For some it could mean putting the phone down for the evening, or perhaps even for the day. The Trail Marker trailer is a vessel created to be the catalyst that helps you unplug for a period of time, leaving you rested, revitalized and ready to get back to your busy life.
My name is JP Ross and I created the Trail Marker trailer because I am a 42 year old with a toddler, an infant, a beautiful wife and a black lab who loves the outdoors.I could spend all of my time on trails with just a day pack and a dream, but I want to spend my spare time with my family, so I created Trail Marker trailers. They make getting away into the backcountry with your family easy. You won’t need to spend endless amounts of time setting up and breaking down camp. With a Trail Marker trailer you can take all the extras your family needs and have a basecamp that allows you to transport and deploy in minutes.
The mission of Trail Marker is to make strong, light, multi-use trailers. They are made with simple lines and both composite and organic materials. Trail Marker trailers are made completely of composite honeycomb walls with aluminum frames. We offer various options and configurations to help personalize your trailer to meet your specific needs. We’ve built many trailers now and they keep getting better and better with each collaborative innovation we have with our customers. We overbuild our trailers, taking many cues from the fabled Air Stream. Our standard models are made for light duty off road use and our Bushwhacker is designed for those interested in heavy off road use. Our trailers are meant to be handed down through generations like an heirloom. This is not a cargo trailer with windows and it is not a small RV. It is unique in its own way. We create shells that people can accessorize themselves, and we also make full blown base camps. Our trailers are tall enough for you to stand it, so you can truly make it into your own fully enclosed custom camping space. It’s entirely up to you. All we want to do is get you Outside! Please call or email us today.
At Off Grid Trailers, we’ve designed our off-road trailers for traversing the backwoods, venturing off the beaten path and outside campgrounds to truly commune with and experience the wild. Our improved 2019 models are entirely CAD designed and modelled, are 100% wood free, and offer new features based on customer feedback. Our trailers can withstand any climate and any terrain.
Some of the standard features we offer include a fully insulated cabin with an extruded aluminum skeleton structure and laser cut aluminum panel skins. Our floor construction includes aluminum flooring, CNC cut R9 rigid foam insulation, and space age flooring for additional thermal break. New for 2019 is our laser cut and formed open C-channel frame for additional corrosion resistance, increased rigidity, and weight savings. Our customers have spoken; we include standard storage features including adjustable powder-coated aluminum cabinet shelving. We’ve also improved serviceability on our 2019 model lineup including serviceable and removable water tanks, multi-piece fenders, tail light guards, and fully accessible electrical bays.
We built with only the top industry known components including: Pro Comp Rockwell 17×8.5 wheels with 265/70R17 Toyo Open Country ATII off-road tires, Timbren 3500HD suspension (4-inch lift with 10-inch electric brakes), Dometic appliances, and Go Power electrics. We can add heat, 23 Zero roof top tents, Darche eclipse awnings, trailer stabilization, and so much more!
At Off Grid Trailers, we don’t just build trailers, we build relationships: with our customers and our team, with our partners and vendors.
offgridtrailers.com, contact form on site, (800)-786-3221, located in Edmonton, AB
Model
Type
Base Price
Weight
Kitchen Standard
Options
RTT Compatible
Expedition
Squaredrop
USA- $23,900.00 CANADA-$29,500.00
1800 lbs
Yes
Yes
Yes
Pando
Teardrop
USA-$25,900.00 CANADA-$31,999.00
2000 lbs
Yes
Yes
Yes
Manufactured in Edmonton Alberta Canada
Timberleaf Trailers offers two distinct trailer platforms. Our Classic measures 5’ x 10’ with a queen size mattress. The smaller Pika (Pyka) is a very nimble 4’6” x 8’ with a full size mattress. Each trailer can be equipped as a road model, All-Road model or Off-Road model. Our intention is to offer the classic teardrop aerodynamic profile, uncompromising fit and finish with any level of suspension to fit your personal style of travel. Both the All-Road and Off-Road utilize the award winning Timbren Axleless suspension. Both of these also include brakes, Max Couplers and BF Goodrich KO2 tires. All our frames are 2” x 3” .120 steel tubing powder coated for premium protection. With over thirty options to add to either trailer we can accommodate most all your needs to get off the beaten path is style and comfort. We have a dozen exterior colors and ten interior laminate colors to make your trailer one of a kind. Every one of our trailers comes equipped with two doors, two windows and a huge skylight, All standard equipment. Each and every trailer is built to order.
timberleaftrailers.com, hello@timberleaftrailers.com, (970)-778-3744, located in Grand Junction, CO
Model
Type
Base Price
Weight
Kitchen Standard
Options
RTT Compatible
Pika
Teardrop
$11,750.00
950 lbs
Yes
Yes
limited
Classic
Teardrop
$19,850.00
1550 lbs
Yes
Yes
Yes
Manufactured in the USA
Hiker Trailer builds lightweight, affordable trailers to help people experience the outdoors in a comfortable and economic way. We keep it simple, focusing on quality, and only the added amenities our individual customers need for their outdoor adventures. We offer multiple models including a Highway Deluxe Road model, a Mid-Range Off-Road model and an Extreme Off-Road model. The Off-Road Extreme Deluxe model includes an all aluminum exterior, Jeep lug pattern, 33″ tires, 17″ steel black wheels, a 3500 lb axle, 2 rear drop down jacks, front jacks, a black front storage box, 2×3 off-road steel frame, LED surface mount lights, and more.
Call us for a quote at any one of our three locations: -Hiker Trailer West,(303)-906-0224, Colorado@hikertrailers.com, located in Denver, CO -Hiker Trailer East, (317)-774-4933, Indiana@hikertrailers.com located in Noblesville, IN -Our authorized reseller, Lead Dog Motorsports, (928)-208-2006, located in Lake Havasu, NV
Model
Type
Base Price
Weight
Kitchen Standard
Options
RTT Compatible
Highway Basic
4×8
Box Frame/Expo
$2,895.00
670 lb
No
Yes
Yes
5×8
Box Frame/Expo
$3,895.00
780 lb
No
Yes
Yes
5×9
Box Frame/Expo
$4,895.00
860 lb
No
Yes
Yes
5×10
Box Frame/Expo
$5,695.00
980 lb
No
Yes
Yes
Highway Deluxe
4×8
Box Frame/Expo
$3,795.00
670 lb
No
Yes
Yes
5×8
Box Frame/Expo
$4,795.00
780 lb
No
Yes
Yes
5×9
Box Frame/Expo
$5,795.00
860 lb
No
Yes
Yes
5×10
Box Frame/Expo
$6,795.00
980 lb
No
Yes
Yes
Mid-Range Deluxe-Expedition model
5×8
Box Frame/Expo
$6,395.00
980 lb
No
Yes
Yes
5×9
Box Frame/Expo
$7,395.00
1,090 lb
No
Yes
Yes
5×10
Box Frame/Expo
$8,395.00
1,170 lb
No
Yes
Yes
Extreme Off-‘Road Deluxe- Expedition Model
4×8
Box Frame/Expo
$7,995.00
1,350 lb
No
Yes
Yes
5×8
Box Frame/Expo
$8,995.00
1,510 lb
No
Yes
Yes
5×9
Box Frame/Expo
$9,995.00
1,620 lb
No
Yes
Yes
Manufactured in the USA
When you are ready to buy a trailer, wee ask you to please search the market. Be an educated consumer. If you do, wee promise that you won’t find anything out there that’s comparable to our trailers. Wee then ask you to do your due diligence. Compare our trailer with any other manufacturer’s. It’s important to know the strength of the material you are choosing, the location and type of electrical wiring used, how it is installed etc. Put any product up to ours and lets go from head to tail and compare. You will see that what wee offer, pound for pound, dollar for dollar is superior to any other trailer on the market. Wee are willing to put our money where our mouth is and show you, with full transparency, how wee build the best aluminum trailers in America.
weeroll.com, weerollusa@gmail, (353)-454-8210, located in FL
Model
Type
Base Price
Weight
Kitchen Standard
Options
RTT Compatible
Weeroll Overland
squaredrop
$7,595.00
810 lb
No
Yes
Yes
Weeroll Xtreme
squaredrop
$8,795.00
No
Yes
Yes
Manufactured in the USA
The Tuff Stuff Xtreme Base Camp Expedition trailer provides all of the off-the-grid amenities in very well thought out package! All Base Camp trailers come standard with what most charge extra for such as: 18 gal water tank/electric water pump, 110 AH battery, 1000W inverter, solar controller, external solar plug, power ports throughout, LED courtesy lights at all 4 corners, interior lighting, 2 burner gas stove (with instant start), adjustable tent rack, adjustable awning mount, sealed front storage box, exterior sliding drawer, dual jerry can storage, full-size propane tank mount, independent suspension (axle less), articulating hitch, spare tire, 4X leveling jacks, 31X10.50X15 all-terrain tires (5 X 5” bolt pattern) and tons of interior sealed storage with ball bearing drawers and slide outs.
tuffstuff4x4.com, support@tuffstuff4x4.com, (866)-220-0171, located in Santa Ana CA
Model
Type
Base Price
Weight
Kitchen
Options
RTT Compatible
Xtreme Base Camp Expedition
utility
$12,999.00
1,654 lb
Yes
Yes
Yes
Manufactured in China
Why should you consider purchasing a Conqueror off-road Camping trailer? Conqueror off-road Camping trailers have been safari and outback tested for over 25 years in the harsh and unforgiving environments of Africa and Australia. What other trailer in the US market can boast of this proven pedigree?
How would it be for you to be able to go camping anywhere you want? The untouched, pristine campsite on the other side of the river or just over the next mountain are now within reach with a Conqueror off-road Camping trailer. Anywhere your vehicle can go, your conqueror trailer will effortlessly follow. Modern day conveniences coupled with a proven track record of surviving the harsh African and Australian environments qualify the Conqueror trailer to be your (UEV) Urban Escape Vehicle.
conqueror4x4usa.com, sales@conqueror4x4usa.com, (937)-594-9565, located in Bellefontaine OH
Model
Type
Base Price
Weight
Kitchen Standard
Options
RTT Compatible
UEV 310 Extreme- North America
utility
$20,600.00
1,500 lbs
Yes
Yes
Yes
UEV-390 Extreme-North America
utility
$33,500.00
1,875 lbs.
Yes
Yes
Yes
UEV-390 Extreme Platinum Edition–North America
utility
$35,300.00
1,875 lbs.
Yes
Yes
Yes
UEV-440 Extreme-North America
utility
$47,850.00
2,755 lbs.
Yes
Yes
Yes
UEV-440 Extreme Platinum Edition-North America
utility
$49,650.00
2,755 lbs.
Yes
Yes
Yes
UEV-490 Extreme-North America
utility
$50,950.00
3,200 lbs.
Yes
Yes
Yes
UEV-490 Extreme Platinum Edition-North America
utility
$52,750.00
3,200 lbs
Yes
Yes
Yes
Manufactured in Australia
Crawlorado Offroad specializes in custom built off-road camp trailers that are lightweight and virtually indestructible. We can also take care of your custom fabrication needs. Our mission is to furnish a first class product that is reliable and virtually indestructible as well as affordable. Everything we produce can be built to the customers specific needs. We will use only the best available products.
Off road reliability is our primary concern. They are assembled with heavy duty box steel frames and will withstand even the most extreme off road trails that allows you to have the camping conveniences usually restricted to the camp grounds.
The VORSHEER XOC is the home you can take with you on your expeditions into the wild. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a cross-country trek into the unknown. With exceptional ground clearance, rigid construction, and thoughtful design, the XOC is handcrafted to embody unyielding excellence. Standard features include 33” AT tires on 18” wheels, electric drum brakes, an independent suspension, rear leveling jacks, ample storage space, full LED lighting and a full-size cabin. A variety of optional features include a complete kitchen, propane cabin heater, full-size spare tire swing, queen size mattress for two, and the ability to sleep up to five more with a tent – all in a compact and lightweight design. With the embodiment of exploration in the VORSHEER XOC, you are not bound to any road or trail – you’re able to go wherever freedom leads you.
vorsheershop.com, contact form on site or help@vorsheer.com, (385)-685-5037, located in Springville UT
Model
Type
Base Price
Weight
Kitchen Standard
Options
RTT Compatible
XOC
Squaredrop
$19,999.00
2,200 lbs.
No
Yes
Yes
Manufactured in the USA
A PASSION FOR THE OUTDOORS
CRUX Expedition Trailers marks the culmination of a life-long passion for the outdoors and back-country exploration. As a former Geologist, co-owner Lorrie Francis intimately understands the need for a capable and reasonably priced camper trailer that can withstand the abuse of normal operation in extreme conditions. Finding a market full of overpriced and under-built towables, Lorrie and Sam set out to fill the void. CRUX Expedition Trailers is a family owned and operated Colorado business that strives to produce top-Quality products that are safe and comfortable for our family and yours.
Whether you’re planning a week long excursion into the dry and dusty deserts of Utah, traversing treacherous mountain passes in Colorado, or simply taking the family out for a laid-back weekend by the lake, CRUX Expedition Trailers will be right behind you.
Crux Expedition Trailers were born from the need to wander. Our agile and compact yet heavyweight trailers, have everything one would need to explore the far reaches of the outdoors or simply set up for a quick weekend trip. “We are just supplying the passport for people to travel. It is up to them to create the adventure.” -Lorrie
When adventure calls the Colorado Backcountry Trailers 2019 TIMBERLINE camping trailer is ready to answer and bring the comforts of home deep into the backcountry. We take “Go Where Others Can’t” seriously. The TIMBERLINE was born out of the idea that the best camping trailer should be able to go off-road as easily as on-road. The TIMBERLINE was designed to be pulled by a side-by-side or similar UTV as well as a small car, truck, or SUV. Small enough to go on an array of easy to difficult trails, or store in the back of your garage, the TIMBERLINE trailer is perfect for a weekend getaway or extended backcountry adventure. We’ve made sure that you experience full size luxury in a small package. Our standard trailer includes a full-sized roof top tent with an electric lift system (two buttons take the tent up off the ground and down again), a 100-watt solar panel and 12-volt battery. The slide kitchen features a three burner Furion propane stove (best on the market) powered by a 5-pound propane tank and on-demand hot and cold running water. The kitchen includes a large slide for a cooler and is pre-wired with a 12-volt fridge/freezer outlet. You’ll enjoy plenty of storage with two drawers in the kitchen. It houses a 17.9-gallon water tank which is easy to fill up and drain, a water pump, LED lights over the kitchen and in the storage and utility compartments. There is even a shore power hook up. The TIMBERLINE weighs 1568 pounds dry, is built with a 2000-pound Timbren axel-less suspension, a Kilby Max coupler hitch for versatility when going over uneven ground and a four-corner angled leveling system for even the most uneven camp site. Our trailer includes a receiver for a bike rack, and features a 10 cubic foot locking storage compartment, one RotoPax with room to extend, 2 USB ports to keep your cell phones charged up, an electrical shut off switch and a Victron BMV 712 battery monitor. You are even able to have an ap on your smartphone to monitor your battery power. Options for the TIMBERLINE include a five sided, 5’8” x 6’10” annex room that easily zips on under the tent, adding a complete enclosure. In addition, you can purchase a 270-degree awning that covers the kitchen and storage areas, awning sides with windows that Velcro onto the awning. Additional RotoPax for longer stays in the backcountry, a second battery, an 11-pound propane tank and a water filtration system, enabling you to stay off-grid as long as you want. You may be in rough country but you’ll be far from roughing it. You will be rested and ready for the next day’s adventure. Colorado Backcountry Trailers was founded on the belief that you should be comfortable no matter where you want to camp. The 2019 TIMBERLINE is Handcrafted in Colorado by Colorado Backcountry Trailers, LLC ColoradoBackcountryTrailers.com, 720-338- 0619, austin@coloradobackcountrytrailers.com, Loveland, CO
Model
Type
Base Price
Weight
Kitchen Standard
Options
RTT Compatible
Timberline
camper Trailer
$18,900.00
1,568 lbs
Yes
Yes
Included
Made in the USA
There you have it. The most comprehensive off-road trailer guide on the net. Enjoy!
Author: Lori Palmer, TAP Editor and Co-Owner
All verbiage and photos came from the trailer companies.
The final chapter of our trip to Death Valley National Park. If you’ve missed the first three days, check them out then read on as we stop by the Wildrose Charcoal Kilns, Ballarat Ghost Town, then leave the park and head over to Jawbone Canyon OHV Park to see Burro Schmidts tunnel and finally stop to camp at Red Rock Canyon State Park.
Day Four Destinations:
The Wildrose Charcoal Kilns, Ballarat Ghost Town, Burro Schmidt’s Tunnel in Jawbone Canyon OHV Park , Ricardo Campground in Red Rock Canyon State Park.
Wildrose Charcoal Kilns
From our third night’s camp at Mahogany Flat, we headed back down Wildrose Canyon and stopped to check out the Wildrose Charcoal kilns.
The Wildrose Charcoal Kilns, built in 1877, are one of the best preserved and largest examples of historic charcoal kilns in the West. The kilns are located in the western part of Death Valley National Park, in Wildrose Canyon. The kilns were in operation from 1877-1879. Each kiln would be loaded with as much as 35 cords of wood and then lit. Air flow was limited by blocking the vents located near the base of the kilns and the wood was allowed to slowly burn for a week or more until it was reduced to charcoal. It would then take another five days for the charcoal to cool before it could be removed from the kiln. Charcoal was desirable because it burned hotter and slower than wood, and was more suitable to power boilers and for use in smelters.
The Modock Consolidated Mining Company built them in order to provide fuel for use in two smelters close to their group of lead and silver mines in the Argus Range west of Panamint Valley, about 25 miles from the kilns. The mine was partly owned by the famous George Hearst (William Randolph Hearst’s father; a lucrative miner), this was not a particularly productive venture compared to Hearst’s other investments so it’s unlikely that he took much personal interest in it. The reason for the closure is likely a combination of poor economics (the charcoal had to be transported up to 25 miles by wagon over difficult and primitive roads) and the fact that the kiln’s voracious appetite for wood quickly depleted the sparse pinyon forests for miles around the site. (westernmininghistory.com)
Ballarat Ghost Town
We continued down Wild Rose Canyon road to Panamint Valley Road to check out Ballarat ghost town. I found an interesting video on Ballarat and its infamous past inhabitants on DesertUSA.com.
When we got there we ran into a colorful crew of characters sitting in front of the old general store. We didn’t go over to chat, just took a few pictures of the town’s remains and left.
From Ballarat, we said goodbye to Steve and Laura. They were heading home to the Bay Area and to Seattle. David and I also left the park and headed over to Jawbone OHV area in search of Burro Schmidt’s tunnel.
Burro Schmidt’s Tunnel
photo credit-@explorecaliforniapics
William Henry “Burro” Schmidt prospected around Kern County and established claims in the El Paso Mountains. Starting in 1906, he dug, drilled and blasted his way through the interior of the mountain for thrity-two years, until 1938, when daylight was finally visible through the far side of the tunnel, but he found no gold. His tunnel is 2,094 feet long and you can walk through it and check out the incredible yellow and rust colored strata formations on the ceiling. He’s another example of the eclectic characters drawn to the desert, Death Valley National Park and its riches.
Photo Credit-@explorecaliforniapics
Ricardo Campground-Red Rock Canyon State Park
That evening we drove over to Red Rock Canyon State Park and camped at Ricardo Campground. The rock formations in the camp are spectacular. They form fluted folds from the erosion of softer rocks beneath the dark caprocks which were formed by a harder lava flow layer many moons ago. For more info on the park from DesertUSA.com click here.
It was a great time to be at the park as the campground was almost empty. We hiked around a bit and walked through some amazing tunnels and chambers formed by erosion. If we’d have had another day, we would have explored the park, but that will have to be another trip. We made a big fire in a pit that was nestled close to a rock wall in a half circle enclosure and enjoyed the beauty and the peace of the evening and the warmth of the fire. We talked about life and family and how lucky we are to have such a wonderful playground within reach. This had been a truly remarkable trip, one I would not soon forget.
Author: Lori Palmer
Photos: Lori Palmer, David Griffith-@explorecaliforniapics
Welcome to part three in a four part series of TAP’s journey through Death Valley. If you’ve missed the first two days, check them out then read on as we head over to Nevada to see some outdoor art and Rhyolite ghost town. Then journey with us through Titus Canyon, over Red Pass, down into the ghost town of Leadfield, then through the limestone hallways of the Titus Canyon gorge….and more. Read on and enjoy. I’ve attached a PDF of a map of Death Valley here so that you can track our journey and get some planning ideas of your own. There are also numerous books on the off road trails in Death Valley National Park to use as additional resources.
DAY THREE DESTINATIONS:
Beatty NV, The Goldwell Open Air Museum, Rhyolite Ghost Town, Red Pass, Leadville Ghost town, Titus Canyon, Stovepipe Wells, Mahogany flat.
The Goldwell Open Air Museum
The Last Supper- Goldwell Open Air Museum
From Mesquite campground, we headed down Scotty’s Castle Road,(North Highway) over to the 374 into Beatty NV for gas, then headed back out to the Goldwell Open Air Museum, home of a very interesting rendition of “The Last Supper” as well as other eclectic pieces of art. This open air museum was created by a group of European artists looking to make art in a free and open environment. It still has an artist in residency program located nearby. Read more about it here. This is a unique destination. Definitely worth a stop.
Rhyolite Ghost Town
The Cook Bank Building
In 1904 the town of Rhyolite came into existence when two prospectors, Shorty Harris and E.L. Cross found gold in the quartz on a nearby hill. It sprang up, attracting folks looking for riches in mining and like so many other mining towns, closed down just over a decade after it’d been built. If you are interested in reading more of it’s brief, but interesting history, click here. The last time TAP visited and wrote an article on Rhyolite you could wander in and out of all of the buildings freely. On this visit we found that most of the buildings now have fences around them to protect the integrity of what remains of the structures.
Red Pass
From Rhyolite we headed back into the park via the 374 and turned on to Titus Canyon Road. This one-way road heads west across the Amargosa Valley and climbs into the Grapevine Mountains. At White Pass it enters upper Titanothere Canyon. The fossil skull of a huge, rhino-like Ritanothere was found here in 1933, hence the name. Colorful rock deposits along this section contain fossil beds 30-35 million years old.
Titus Road photo credit: Steve Drewniany
Red Pass is the highest point on the road and divides Titanothere and Titus Canyons. This is a really beautiful area that should not be missed. It’s vibrant sediment striations of light green, brown and red make this an unforgettable leg of the journey. The road here is graded dirt with switchbacks. Once you arrive at the top of Red Pass, Titus Canyon opens up below and the views are stunning.
View of Titus Canyon from Red pass
Leadfield Ghost Town
Winding over the pass, you begin to see a few rusty tin structures and a couple of mine shafts. These are the remains of Leadville. The townsite of Leadfield was established in 1925 and abandoned in 1927. It came into being as the result of an extensive and fraudulent advertising campaign by the Western Lead Mine Company and C.C. Julian of Julian Petroleum. His advertising posters showed steamboats navigating the Amargosa River to Leadfield despite the fact that the Amargosa River was dry much of the time and didn’t run within 20 miles of Leadfield. Fifteen miles of road were built up the canyon to connect with the road to Beatty, Nevada. A concrete foundation for a stamp mill was poured, and the beginning of a series of power poles for electric lines were installed.
That sums it up!
Historic photographs show some frame and corrugated metal buildings and there is evidence of a few dugouts, but the majority of the citizens of Leadfield lived in tents. The population peaked at around 300 in 1926, with a post office opening in August of that year. However, by February 1927, the post office closed down and the town died. The site is an example of one of the get-rich-quick schemes of the wild 1920s.
photo credit-@explorecalifornia.pics
Titus Canyon
Titus Canyon is a deep, narrow gorge cut into the Grapevine Mountains. The gigantic rock walls close in on the road as you wind your way through and the sun flits in and out of view. The rock formations that make up the walls of this gorge are epic. Arches are carved in the face of the rocks, shallow caves have formed, and sediment layers have settled forming folded and twisted sculptures in limestone.
This is one of the most travelled sites in Death Valley and it’s easy to see why. It’s like going on a ride in nature’s Disneyland. The last mile and a half of the canyon is the most narrow. Because this end of the canyon opens up onto a parking lot where visitors and hikers come to explore, be aware that you could be sharing the road with pedestrians. Upon exiting the Canyon, you reach the only stretch of Titus Canyon Road that is two-way. This road, from Beatty from where it intersects with Scotty’s Castle Road or North Highway is approximately 25 miles long and will take you between 2-3 hours to traverse.
Stovepipe Wells
The General Store in Stovepipe Wells
From Titus Canyon we headed into Stovepipe Wells for some gas and a conversation with a Ranger about road conditions on Golar Wash and Mengel Pass. Stovepipe Wells came into being in 1906 when a road between Rhyolite and Skidoo was built. It served as a waypoint for miners on their journey to the mine at Skidoo. Back then, Stovepipe Wells was composed of a collection of tents providing travelers with food, drink and lodging.
In 1925, Bob Eichmann built a hotel there and constructed a scenic toll road through Death Valley. These renovations were the beginning of the transition from mining community to tourist destination. The settlement is now registered as a California Historical Landmark. If you blink, you will miss this place. Stovepipe Wells is made up of approximately 7 buildings; a hotel, post office, gas station, gift shop, ranger station, a saloon and a couple of restaurants.
We spoke to a ranger about road conditions through Goler Wash and Mengel Pass because we wanted to check out Barker Ranch. Barker Ranch is notorious for its association with the Manson Family. It is known as their last hiding place. In 1968, the Manson family moved to Barker Ranch after obtaining Arlene Barker’s permission to use the property on a temporary basis. Arlene Barker was the grandmother of Catherine Gilles, a member of the Manson family. She owned both Mayer’s Ranch and Barker Ranch and the Manson family lived in both places in until 1969 when the Inyo County sheriff department, California Highway Patrol, and National Park Service Law Enforcement captured the group in raids on October 10 and October 12. Manson was supposedly caught hiding under the bathroom vanity. At the time of the raid, the officers were looking for persons responsible for vandalism within Death Valley further north. They had no idea that they had arrested a mass-murderer and his followers. Today the remnants of the ranch belong to National Park Service.
The remains of Barker Ranch, where Manson and his “family” spent their last days. Photo: TripAdvisor.com
According to the Ranger, the roads had been mangled in a flash flood (The one that has Scotty’s Castle closed until 2020.). He looked out the window at our rigs and said we could definitely do it, but the going would be very slow. It was about 2:30 and we wanted to get to camp before dark, so we discussed other options and decided on Emigrant Canyon Road over to Wildrose Canyon, past the Charcoal kilns and up to Mahogany Flat campground.
Mahogany Flat
Badwater Basin is the lowest point in North America
Mahogany Flat is situated at 8,100 feet between the highest point in Death Valley and the lowest point in North America. The highest point in Death Valley is Telescope Peak in the Panamint Range, at 11,043 feet. From Mahogany Flat, we could look up and see the switchback hiking trail leading up to the top of Telescope Peak. Looking down to the east, we had a view of Badwater Basin which sits at 86 meters or 282 feet below sea level; the lowest point in North America. Steve and Laura had to head back to the Bay Area the next day, while David and I were going to spend another day exploring, then head home the following morning. I’d say we had chosen an excellent spot to set up our last night’s together camp.
My home away from home.There’s nothing like hanging out around a nice fire with friends after a long day of exploring. photo credit-@explorecalifornia.pics
CHECK OUT DAY 4We stop by the charcoal kilns, another ghost town then head out past the town of Trona and on to Jawbone Canyon OHV Recreation Area to check out a man-made tunnel with a crazy story behind it as well as some other points of interest.
Author: Lori Palmer TAP Co-Founder and Editor
Photos: Steve Drewniany, David Griffith-@explorecaliforniapics and Lori Palmer
In November, a group of us went out to explore Death Valley National Park for four days. In my previous article, I gave you a rundown on the adventures of day one. If you missed that article, then start by reading it here. On day two, we woke up in Saline Valley to sunshine and haze from the fires that were raging out of control to the west and southwest of us; the Woolsey fire and the The Mendocino Complex Fire, made up of River and Ranch fires. This was a sad time for many in CA and a sobering example of the dangerous toll that years of drought and high temperatures could take on our state. One of our fellow travellers had cancelled just days before the trip because his neighborhood was on standby for evacuation. He and his family were evacuated and though no harm came to his family or property, many people we knew would be affected by them.
On the morning of day two we were greeted by sunny, hazy conditions with a clear layer of smoke from the raging fires resting on the top of the Inyo Mountains to the west of us.
DAY TWO DESTINATIONS:
The Salt Flats to Lippencott Pass, the Racetrack, teakettle junction, Ubehebe Crater and camp at Mesquite Springs Campground.
Today, we would be visiting a few of Death Valley National Park’s most iconic destinations. In order to reach them, we would climb up and over Lippencott Pass. As a result of heavy rains and flash floods, Lippencott had become worse for the wear. Some of the switchbacks had suffered a good deal of erosion. David had driven Lippencott a couple of weeks prior and assured us it was passable, if not a little hairy in sections of the climb. I couldn’t wait to get there. Most of the rest of the day we would be travelling along grated, dirt/stone roads, rich in washboard ridges with dust aplenty. Not great, but totally worth it.
Salt Flats
Travelling through Saline Valley, our first stop was at the Salt Flats.
We headed down Saline Valley Road and passed the Salt Flats.
In 1911, a tram scaling 7,600 feet up the Inyo mountains and 5,000 feet down into the western side of Owens Valley was built to carry salt from Saline Valley to markets in California. Production started in 1913 and ended in 1930. I can’t even begin to imagine the hellish conditions the workers had to endure. As you can see from the photo, our view was from far away. Nothing to write home about, but a little piece of the rich history this area contains.
Lippencott Pass
A birds eye view of Saline Valley from a vista close to the top of Lippencott Pass.
After the initial meandering assent, this road morphs into a steep, serious, low range, climb and should not be driven by someone new to off roading. There were a few times when I came to a narrow, washed out switchback that was off-camber and thought, “I’m gunna die.”. If you look out your passenger window whilst uncomfortably off camber, you can see a treacherous rolling hill descent into the canyon below. That being said, it was good fun.
Lippencott Pass or as it is sometimes called, Lippencott Mine road, rises up and out of Saline Valley to Racetrack Road. Before you get to the end of the road, you can park and walk up to a lookout peak with views of the Inyo Mountains, Saline Valley, and the Saline Range. It’s an expansive and starkly beautiful sight. The road ends a bit further on at a warning sign that is worse for wear but says, ” Lippincott Road, 4×4 High Clearance, No Tow service, Caution”. I would hate to imagine climbing Lippencott and facing a vehicle coming down. I really don’t know how, with the washed out state it was in, two rigs going opposite directions would manage. That being said, the road was clear, we got to the top, had lunch, and braced ourselves for the next leg of our journey down Racetrack road. A long, merciless washboard road that passes by our next three stops.
The Racetrack Playa
The spanish word Playa refers to either a beach or a dry, flat lakebed. The Racetrack Playa is a flat, dry lakebed. It’s got a cracked clay surface scattered with a few rocks. Behind some of the rocks, you can see tracks. The rocks have, over many, many years, skirted along the surface as if by magic.
Before moving on to some interesting information about the Playa I have to say that every time I have been there, I have seen the signs that ask visitors not to drive on the Playa and I have seen tire marks………on the Playa. I have also seen tracks with no rocks at the end of them, indicating that someone decided they would make good souvenirs. I don’t like it, don’t get it and wish people would knock it off. Ok, just had to get that out.
I’m pretty sure that this exact pair of travelling rocks on La Playa have been photographed a bazillion times…..Rock Stars. BAH!
Here is a scientific explanation of the travelling rocks: Over the years, erosion has caused rocks from the surrounding mountains to break off and fall to the surface of the Racetrack. Current research suggests that a combination of rain and wind enable the rocks to move. A rain of about 1/2 inch, will wet the surface of the playa, providing a firm but extremely slippery surface. Strong winds of 50 mph or more, may skid the rocks along the slippery mud surface. Go to our Death Valley-Racetrack Road article to see how ice also factors into this movement. The Racetrack Playa is unique, a must see for photographers and adventurers alike.
Teakettle Junction
Teakettle Junction, a staple attraction for those looking to see one of Death Valleys quirky sights. It is located at the junction of Hidden Valley Road and Racetrack Road. This is an unusual site signposted and covered with an international array of kettles. Most of the kettles have messages written on them. It’s interesting to see where all the kettles are from and to read the messages from around the world. Check out our article on Teakettle Junction for more information.
Ubehebe Crater
We got to Ubehebe Crater just as the low-hanging, early evening, autumn sun was splashing beautiful orange-peach light on the side of the crater wall. It was stunning.
Ubehebe Crater is located at the north tip of the Cottonwood Mountains. The crater is half a mile wide and 500 to 777 feet deep. The age of the crater is disputed. Some studies estimate that it’s 800 years old and others estimate that it is 2,000-7,000 years old. By the time we got to the crater, the wind was up and the sun was going down. It’d been a long, dusty, washboard infused yet eventful day. We had seen a handful of iconic Death Valley attractions, and this was a wonderful way to cap off the day. We took a few photos then headed over to Mesquite Springs Campground at twilight for a fire and comradery.
