If there’s one brand that’s goes with “vacation,” it’s Jeep. That’s particularly true if you’re hoping to have big fun off road. Even if you aren’t sure what kind of terrain or weather you’ll encounter on your road trip, you can be assured a Jeep can handle it. Beyond their exquisite four-wheel drive capability, these vehicles are also equipped with all the creature comforts you need to make your excursion a success. With that in mind, here are some of the best Jeep vacation destinations.
Ouray, Colorado
If you want some mountain action, a trip to Ouray, Colorado is all about the Rockies. Along with rough-and-tumble clambering around the vaunted range, you get to check out ghost towns, wildflowers, historic mining venues, waterfalls, and possibly some wildlife. And, don’t miss the drop-dead gorgeous nature to be found in the Uncompahgre National Forest.
Moab, Utah
What with its challenging trails and spectacular views, another popular site for off-roading is Moab, Utah. Known as the nation’s off-road capital, this is historically where the manufacturer has frequently put Jeeps through their paces. It’s no wonder, since the area, particularly Hells Revenge, encompasses an abundance of challenging trails. You also can take advantage of spectacular views framed by the Colorado River and La Sal mountains.
White Rim Road in Canyonlands National Park, Utah
Utah is rife with potential Jeep adventures, including this one in Canyonlands. For one, the roads are comprised of sandstone layers, then you have beautiful red rock cliffs and sharp-pointed, protruding canyons. In addition to challenging off-roading, the trail offers sandstone arches in addition to showstopping buttes and towers.
Sandstone Canyon in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California
You want magnificence? This desert trail is fire, as the youngsters say, what with its towering walls, plethora of rockslides, uber-steep grades, and hairy spots for testing off-roading skills.
What about sights, you ask? Well, you get interesting rock formations, awesome examples of tectonic lifting, and wind caves, plus mollusk beds from an ancient body of water.
Azusa Canyon OHV Area in San Gabriel Canyon, California
It’s just a 10-minute trail but the sheer exhilaration you’ll experience will endure for years. If you’re serious about doing your thing off road, this off-highway destination is for you. You’ve got mud runs, river crossing, multiple obstacle courses, and a sweet hill-climb area. Your Jeep SUV will thank you.
Coyote Lake Trail in Sierra National Forest, California
You want rock climbing? Well, you can surely get your fill at Coyote Lake Trail, which abounds with Jeep-worthy rocks and deep-water crossings. If you also want to fish and swim, Coyote Lake Trail will take you to Sierra National Forest, where you can partake to your heart’s content.
Rubicon Trail, California
If you have a Jeep and enjoy four wheeling, then the rocky, punishing Rubicon Trail is Mecca. The 22-mile trail through the state’s Sierra Nevada is the stuff of legend, as is the camaraderie Jeep fans enjoy on the myriad of Jamborees and other sorties that traverse the Rubicon each year.
Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, Oregon
This area is situated along some 40 miles of the Pacific Coast rim of the Siuslaw National Forest. If you want to hit the famed dunes, hew to the Northern and Middle areas, which have them in spades. In fact, some rise to 500 feet above sea level. The Southern area, meanwhile, has designated trails along the shore, in addition to fascinating plant life. Camp out, if you want, or find lodging in nearby coastal towns such as Reedsport or Coos Bay.
Lake Havasu City, Arizona
Here, we’re talking canyons, sand dunes, and miles and miles of open desert. In addition to the London Bridge that is popular with Spring Breakers, the area is also known for water sports as well as trail networks that offer sand dunes, canyon trails, and more. What’s cool is that you can select your adventure based on your ability to climb rocks and drive fast through, say, sandy arroyos.
Drummond Island, Michigan
Yes, Virginia, there is fun to be had in Jeeps outside the U.S. West. Drummond Island is situated on the U.S./Canada border and is accessible by ferry ride. You’ve got 40 miles of routes with terrain that ranges from muddy roads to stone ridges. To negotiate the tall stone steps, you’ll need the skid plates, big tires, locked differentials, and suspension lifts that Jeep offers.
Ultimately, the best Jeep destinations offer some mixture of rocks and other varied and challenging terrain, with bonus offerings of jaw-dropping scenic beauty and nature. The above selections can help you plan. And if you don’t have your Jeep yet, get that shopping out of the way. From Wranglers to Renegades, there’s one out there just for you.
