Overlanding is more than just a road trip. It involves exploring remote destinations in a vehicle equipped for off-road adventures and extended stays in the wilderness. It's about immersing yourself in nature, discovering hidden gems, and embracing the freedom of the open road.
But before you start your journey, it's crucial to know how to find overland trails that align with your vehicle's capabilities and your personal preferences. The many options can be daunting, but we’re here to help.
In this guide, we'll share valuable tips and resources, ensuring your adventures are both safe and unforgettable.
Understanding Overland Trails
Overland trails come in a variety of shapes and sizes, each offering a unique experience and set of challenges.
Let's explore some of the most common types you'll encounter to help you plan.
Forest Roads
These winding paths through wooded areas often provide scenic views and access to remote campsites. While some forest roads are well-maintained and suitable for most vehicles, others may be rougher, requiring four-wheel drive.
Desert Tracks
If you're looking for wide-open spaces and stunning desert landscapes, these sandy trails are calling your name. Be prepared for loose surfaces, potential dunes, and the need for careful navigation.
Mountain Passes
These high-altitude routes offer breathtaking vistas and a sense of accomplishment. However, they can also present challenging conditions, such as steep grades, rocky terrain, and unpredictable weather patterns.
So, do you need 4x4 for overlanding? The answer isn't a simple yes or no. It depends on the specific trails you plan to tackle.
If you're sticking to well-maintained forest roads or easy desert tracks, a two-wheel-drive vehicle with decent clearance might suffice. However, if you're venturing into more rugged terrain, such as mountain passes or challenging desert trails, a 4x4 is highly recommended.
How to Find Overland Trails
Finding the perfect overland trail is easier than ever, thanks to a wealth of online and offline resources.
Online Resources
There are plenty of platforms and apps dedicated to trail discovery. Some popular options include:
- onX Offroad: This app provides detailed maps with offline functionality, public land boundaries, and user-generated waypoints. This makes onX Offroad an essential tool for navigating off-the-grid trails.
- Gaia GPS: Another powerful mapping app, Gaia GPS offers a variety of map layers, including topographic maps, satellite imagery, and trail overlays. It also allows users to create and share routes, track their progress, and access valuable trail information.
- AllTrails: A popular resource for hiking and backpacking trails, AllTrails also features a growing number of overlanding routes. Users can filter by length, difficulty, and more, making it a valuable tool for finding overland trails.
Overall, using online resources comes with a lot of perks. They offer the latest trail conditions, user reviews, difficulty ratings, and detailed descriptions of campsites, water sources, and possible obstacles. This information helps you make smart choices and pick the perfect trails.
Offline Resources
While online resources are convenient, don't forget about the good old offline tools:
- Guidebooks: There are plenty of guidebooks out there with curated trail descriptions, maps, and insider tips. These books can be helpful for planning your route and learning about the history and natural features of the area.
- Maps: Topographic maps are essential for navigating off-road trails. They provide detailed elevation information, terrain features, and often mark trails and campsites.
- Local knowledge: Don't hesitate to ask local experts, park rangers, or fellow overlanders for recommendations. They often have great insights and know about lesser-known trails and hidden gems in the area.
If you feel like you need extra support in finding an overland trail, join an online forum or local overlanding club. This helps connect you with a community of passionate adventurers eager to share their knowledge and experiences.
Top Overland Destinations in the U.S.
The United States has tons of diverse landscapes and terrains, making it a dream for overlanders. Here’s a look at some of the top overlanding spots in different regions.
West Coast
- California: Home to the iconic Mojave Road – a historic route that winds through the Mojave National Preserve. It offers stunning desert scenery and challenging terrain. It’s also a great place to overland in the winter.
- Oregon: The Oregon Backcountry Discovery Route (OBDR) is a 750-mile adventure that takes you through diverse landscapes. You’ll find dense forests, volcanic peaks, and high desert plains.
Southwest
- Utah: Famous for its red rock canyons, Utah has amazing overlanding trails like the White Rim Road in Canyonlands National Park and the Alpine Loop near Moab.
- Arizona: Explore the Arizona Peace Trail, a 750-mile network of trails that takes you through different ecosystems, from the Sonoran Desert to the alpine forests of the Mogollon Rim.
Rocky Mountains
- Colorado: The Colorado Backcountry Discovery Route (COBDR) is a 675-mile adventure through the Rockies. It offers breathtaking mountain views, challenging passes, and access to remote ghost towns.
East Coast
- North Carolina: The Trans-America Trail (TAT) runs through North Carolina, with a mix of dirt roads, gravel tracks, and paved sections through the beautiful Appalachian Mountains.
Gear Up & Hit the Trails
No matter where you go, with a little planning, research, and the right gear, you can turn your vehicle into a mobile home and discover hidden gems off the beaten path.
But before you hit the road, make sure your overland setup is dialed in. Here at Hutch Tents, we offer a wide range of top-quality overlanding tents designed for comfort, durability, and convenience on the trail.
Browse our selection of spacious rooftop tents for epic views and start planning your next adventure! Let’s turn the road into your home and explore the wonders that await.