Jason Call

There’s no secret to an enjoyable and successful trail excursion. Check that your gear is in top condition, be prepared for the trail conditions and weather, and have adequate fuel for the outing. You don’t have to think about the correct fuel for your vehicle, and proper lubrication and preparation of your equipment. But do you think carefully about the preparation and fuel of your own body?

If you put junk into the gears or fuel tank of your trail machine you will soon breakdown and stop. So why put junk food and bad fluids into your own body? In the same way, you will soon ‘breakdown’ with fatigue and low energy and spirits not only to the point of not enjoying the trip but eventually to the point of endangering your life and others in your group.

Though many trail users take on ‘sports’ drinks, they can contain too much sugar for your system to use properly. Some athletes who are expending huge amounts of energy choose sports and energy drinks, but you’re better off drinking pure and unflavored water. Instead of filling your blood with short term sucrose try replacing all those sodas and beverage bottles with water and use complex carbohydrates as your source of sugars. These will be more gradually absorbed and processed to provide constant energy levels without the rush and crash of simple sugar.

Filling up your own “tank” with garbage is can result in fatigue, gastrointestinal upset or distracting hunger pangs early on during a long excursion and will compromise your endurance and performance, concentration and skills execution.

Adequate hydration is a must as dehydration surreptitiously saps away your strength and balance as muscles stop working properly. Most of a muscle’s ability to work is based on the glycogen already stored in the tissues and must be replenished at a steady rate in order to continue to keep the fires burning. Glycogen is the lighter fluid to burn fats for long term energy use. The by product of burning fat is lactic acid that makes muscles stiff and tired. The lactic acid built up from exertion will quickly incapacitate anyone’s grip and running out of glycogen leads to the dreaded ‘bonk’ or ‘hitting the wall’.

Trail mix is a good source of carbohydrate to keep fuel levels up. Before you choose any of the various trail mixes available on the market, beware of many of those so-called “healthy” snack foods, which may be loaded with insoluble fats, high sodium, and too much sugar. There are some proven performance food bars that have been shown to work well for most people’s level of activity. Ingredients and flavor vary considerably so you may need to experiment to see which ones are compatible with your digestion and taste. Be sure to drink plenty of water with these foods.

Many good quality and professional nutrition products can be quite expensive. Instead of trying to sort through all the supermarket fare or experiment with high cost boutique bars, you can make your own combination. Consider mixing cereal or oats, nuts, and unsweetened dried fruits such as dates, cranberries, apricots, or raisins. Try this in a bag as trail mix or combine with honey, juice and protein powder to form moist bars. If you add egg whites you should cook the bars on a cookie sheet. Homemade energy bars can be at least half the cost of commercial bars and be preservative free and tasty.

Though many of the energy bars on the market are woefully lacking in basic nutrition, there are some which are hearty enough to eat as a meal substitute. If you’re going to be out all day, you can replace a perishable lunch with one of these power-packed energy bars. The calorie intake you need will depend on how strenuous your trail is but aim for calories from high quality complex carbohydrates and protein. Watch out for energy bars that have carbohydrates from sucrose and avoid any that are made by popular candy makers because they usually contain way too high a proportion of unhelpful chemicals.

Fruit comes prepackaged and ready to eat and contain easily digested, ideal combination of nutrition and natural fructose. Some traditional favorite fruits are bananas, apples and oranges. Though a medium banana is only about 100 calories, it is loaded with potassium and has great electrolyte balance for therapeutic muscle benefits.

The more planning you put into your trail exploration, the more you’ll get out of the experience. Having your equipment prepped and ready includes the right supplies for your body. The more you go out and experience trail adventures the more you’ll learn about how your body reacts and meets the demands and challenges you can enjoy.

There has always been great debate between motor sport activists who want to enjoy using their machines offroad and other nature lovers who claim that off-road motor vehicles harm the environment and ruin the area for anyone who wants to enjoy the outdoors in other ways. The argument can be made that four wheelers, dirt bike and ATV riders have as much right to use state lands as anyone else, but that most other outdoor activities don’t interfere with offroading the way mechanized vehicles interfere with horse riding, mountain bike riding, hiking, hunting, fishing, bird watching, or even with the balance of nature and effect on flood plains. Although there may always be a conflict, understanding what other nature seekers do and how your behavior affects them will help keep off-road activity possible in current areas, and possibly help it spread to even more areas.

The number one justification for banning four-wheel-drives, dirt bikes, ATV and even mountain bikes in certain areas is the impact they can have on the environment. Although internal combustion machines can smoke, can be noisy, and can redistribute the mud on a piece of property, these factors have little affect on the environment. However, all activity in the wild, if done improperly or carelessly can damage trails, vegetation, drainage paths and have very noticeable effects on the local environment.

The biggest and most likely risk is damage done to vegetation on the banks of waterways and nearby areas. Because those plants hold the riverbank together, if the plants are killed by traveling over them, the soil in that area can be easily washed away, changing the flow of the river or run-off and oftentimes causing erosion and flooding. This kind of flooding causes damage to bottomlands, which is usually very fertile and a hotspot for deer, turkey, wild mushrooms, birds, and many other things that many nature lovers seek out. In addition, increased erosion along rivers and streams cause fine sediment to fill the water, making it difficult for creatures like tadpoles and crawdads to grow and develop, which hurts the ecosystem, as well as the fish population and fishing opportunities. Most state laws do permit you to cross a river or stream in off road vehicles, but the most damage comes from riding up and down waterways because so much sediment is stirred up in the water.

Other than not damaging waterways and floodplains, there are several other things you can do to ensure that your trail riding doesn’t interfere with other activities that go on alongside the trail. For the most part, you should be fine as long as you keep your riding on the trail. It is when you stray from the trail that you will come across people who don’t appreciate motor sports as much as you.

If you tour in areas that permit hunting, you should take a minute or two to find out what animals are in season so you know what else is going on in the woods. Many hunters complain of off-roaders riders driving by their hunting spots to see if they’re having any luck. Although most hunters don’t mind chatting it up, keep in mind that many hunters look forward to bagging a deer, or elk, or turkey for months, and an ATV off the trail is often enough to disrupt an animal’s normal patterns and keep hunters from seeing anything. Beware also of traveling off the beaten path in hunting season and being mistaken for wildlife yourself.

It would be the same as if you were looking forward to travel an area, only to turn your back for a second and have a hunter ruin your trip by slashing your tires. Your day, as well as weeks or months of planning and anticipation, would be destroyed in a few short seconds. The same can be true of bird watchers, hikers, and people fishing in streams and ponds where you pass by. Although you may not realize it, a dirt bike, ATV, or four wheel drive is a noticeable presence in the woods, and not one that all creatures, including humans, appreciate.

Although there can be some conflict between motor sports lovers and other outdoor enthusiasts, a little respect can go a long way. Also keep in mind that many people who hunt, fish, hike, etc, also ride or have ridden off road vehicles and vice versa. Many hunters will use motor trails to cover ground quickly and get into areas that are usually undisturbed and catch their prey unsuspecting. Most hunters realize that deer and turkey do get used to the sight and sound of motorized vehicles on trails. However, when you leave the trail with your ATV or dirt bike, you are disturbing the wildlife and possibly flood plains, which give other users and lawmakers an excuse to restrict off roading to certain designated areas.

All around us are thousands of off-road trails throughout North America (and more are being charted every day), but how do you judge whether you’ve found a good one or not? Here, we’ll test a few of the elements that you need to look for when deciding where to take your four-wheeler for your next adventure.

Generally, if you’re somebody who is accustomed with four-wheeling, you’ll want an trail that has some distance to it. Or else, you could risk being bored when you just go in circles in the same terrain. Off road trails can be a few to a hundred miles long; start small and steadily build up your staying power. If you’re a beginner, ask a more qualified trail person to show you the tricks of experience; going out on your own is a risky decision and not recommended.

You want an 4×4 trail that matches your skills, not too boring and not overly challenging. Thus, if you’re a learner, don’t start your four-wheeling hobby in an area that includes traverses beyond your ability or your vehicle, or one that requires a great deal of trail touring experience. In the same way, if you’re someone who has a large number of miles under your belt, you should find a trail that suits your goals and the company with you. Be mindful of the other drivers in your group so that they do not create an emergency for everyone.

One of the best things of trail riding is to enjoy the great surroundings, so be aware that your next trail ride is one that includes some panoramic views or which allows you to soak in the uniqueness of the area. You don’t have to be a photographer, a musician or a romantic to be moved by a crooked creek or a glowing sunset.

Not sure if a trail or area is open to off road vehicles? Then stop to think before gunning your engine and don’t ride on any trail or in any section until you have been given the assurance by both the land owner or a legal agency. Far too many four-wheeling enthusiasts have given the sport a bad name by ripping into private areas or tearing up state-owned parks. There are plenty of legitimate trails out there so just make sure the one you choose is authorized for public use or by permission or you could be hit with a large fine.

The last thing you want is to get lost on a trail ride. Trailing without proper equipment in remote areas can be risky, frightening, and even tragic in some situations. Consequently, if you’re unsure of your trail and repair skills, make sure you not only know where you are but also how you can get help in the advent of a rescue situation. A map of the area so you can stay aware of your bearings and areas beyond your chosen trail is a necessity. Even if you never need to consult the map, it’s still better to have it and not need it than to wonder where you are relative to your exit point or camp site when darkness descends.

One of the essentials of a great trail is that it is one you want to share with friends and other enthusiasts. You will know you’ve found perfect path when you can’t wait to get back and start describing your trip to other four-wheeling adventurers. However even after you’ve found an amazing trail that’s very exciting, it’s up to you if you want to share the details with your cadre of friends.

The Great Western Trail is a unique corridor of braided and paralleling trails for both motorized and non-motorized users. The trail system traverses 4,455 miles through Arizona, Utah, Idaho, Wyoming, and Montana. It incorporates stunning desert and canyon landscapes, plateaus, woodlands, dense forests and alpine meadows. It links 18 National Forests, Tribal, State and BLM administered lands and encompasses the most diverse vegetation, topography and wildlife in the western United States.

The Great Western Trail encompasses many of the popular trails throughout the five states. It is unusual in the sense that it provides “something somewhere for everyone.” Some segments are non-motorized, some are shared use, while other portions are developed for motorized use.

In 1996, the Great Western Trail was designated Utah’s Centennial Trail as part of the Statehood Centennial celebration. In 2000, the GWT was designated one of 16 National Millennium Trails by the White House and the Department of Transportation. The Great Western Trail is currently under study by the U.S. Congress to become part of the National Trails System.

The GWT started back in 1985 and so far there are several hundred miles in Utah and Arizona. Like the Eastern and Western railroads of the old west, the goal is to have both the Northern and Southern sections of the trail meet in the middle, completing a way from Canada to Mexico. Portions of the route are already created and when the whole trail is finished it will cover a total of 4,455 miles through Arizona, Utah, Idaho, Wyoming, and Montana. Much of this route is mapped out over some of the most beautiful scenery the United States has to offer. The landscape of the American West is gorgeous enough from a car or the back of a motorcycle, but riding through miles of Arizona desert or the stunning Utah rock formations on an ATV can be downright spectacular.

The builders of the GWT hope to utilize trails and roads already existing along the route. By doing this it cuts down on any new construction that needs to be done. The Great Western Trail is also making use of much of the public lands along the way, especially the land deep in the center of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. The trail will also utilize a few National Forests such as Bitterroot and Salmon National Forests and a portion that follows the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail. Still other sections of the trail will wind along the western portion of Yellowstone National Park.

What do you think of when you hear “Las Vegas”? Slot machines, casinos, showgirls, money, glitz, spectacular shows and some of the best buffets in the States, right? What very few people realize is that southern Nevada has some of the best outdoor activities in the south western United States. Lake Mead National Park not only offers a great tour of the Hoover Dam, but Lake Mead is a hot spot for boating, water skiing, jet skiing, fishing and even some scuba diving. The roads that wind around the lake are frequented by motorcyclists and bicyclists, runners and walkers. If you go far enough into Lake Mead National Park you run into the Valley of Fire, a park named for it’s spectacular fiery red rocks and stunning landscape. On the west end of Las Vegas is Red Rock Canyon, more spectacular landscaping for horseback riding, hiking, camping, rock climbing, biking and motorcycling.

But the top attraction is the trails for the ATV crowd. In Las Vegas there are two major areas where the locals go to ride. The first one is about a half hour outside of Las Vegas at the north end of the strip just past Nellis Air Force Base. There are two ways you can reach the Nellis Dunes. You can either follow Las Vegas Boulevard (aka The Las Vegas Strip) to the north and past the Las Vegas Speedway until you get to the end of it or you can take the I-15 to the Apex exit and turn right. You can’t miss the Dunes on this lonely stretch of road. If you came off the I-15 the Dunes will be immediately on your left, in fact, you will be able to see them from the exit ramp. Every weekend there are trailers and RVs parked up on the Dunes. You can watch kids and adults riding the trails on ATV’s and dirt bikes from the road.

ATV on the trail

If you follow the Boulevard south as far as it will go, you will find yourself paralleling the I-15 going towards California. This stretch of road will take you to the Jean Dry Lake Beds. The area here is also wide open desert with plenty of space for ATV trail riding and should take only twenty to thirty minutes from the Strip.

Venturing outside of Las Vegas you can find another ATV hotspot, the El Dorado Dry Lake Valley Area. Take US 95 or the Boulder Highway south towards Searchlight. Seven miles after the Railroad Pass Casino before you reach Searchlight you’ll find the trails. And finally off of US 93 is the Logandale Trails System.

An inexperienced rider or first time visitor to Las Vegas might want to consider hiring a trail guide. Most of these trails are unmarked and difficult to follow if you aren’t familiar with the area. A guide will also be able to help you over the rougher patches of trail. All ATV outfitters in Las Vegas offer training on the ATV to make sure that you understand how to operate the vehicle. Off road vehicles in Nevada are usually don’t require registration, license or titles to drive, but drivers under the age of 15 require adult supervision and everyone needs to wear a helmet. Headlights are also required to be on from dusk to dawn. Another safety precaution is having a brightly colored flag attached to your ATV while riding the trails so that other riders can see you. Do not ride your ATV on the roads or highways either; trailer your vehicle to the site and stick to the trails. Above all else, do not operate your ATV or any other motorized vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.