First time off-road tips

Hello everyone, I just bought my first Toyota last week. I bought a 2017 Tacoma DCSB TRD-OR with the 6 speed manual in it. The truck is bone stock and has just over 35k miles. I am itching to take it off road for the first time, but I am reluctant because I have no experience. I was hoping that someone could give me some tips on hitting a trail for the first time. I live in Virginia and I plan to try the Peters Mill Run OHV trail in the George Washington National Forest. It’s rated as an easy/ moderate, and I think my stock truck would have no problem with it. Is anyone familiar with this trail or any other trails in VA that would be a good beginner trail? Thanks in advance!

any tips on the following things would be greatly appreciated:

must have gear
Recovery considerations
Smart phone off-road apps
Trails
Techniques

 

Gaia is a good app to use. I always like to look up the trails I'm planning on taking on YouTube to get a feel for them. If it's easy/moderate I wouldn't think much would be needed. Maybe a shovel?

 

Good luck to you! Go easy and don't rush into anything.

Maybe prowl around in the south east region threads:

South East

 

Must haves, probably a offroading buddy and tow straps. If you must go by yourself be prepared to dig and lift rocks and stuff, so a shovel is good; winch is even better. Also let people know where your going so they can come and get you if you get stuck that bad. You never know when you'll get stuck. As far as technique, slow and steady. Don't use more gas than you have to. That's how you'll break stuff. I'm paranoid about this stuff so.....

 

Thanks for the quick replies! I definitely will go with a shovel, and I was thinking a couple tow/recovery straps. Unfortunately a winch/bumper set up isn’t really in the budget right now, so I planned on buying a come along to get me out of a pinch.

 

Some 4x4 info here

Common suggestions for mods/equipment here.

 

yeah, these things come with time. don't fret about not having a winch. there is a plethora of other recovery options.

 

Look into the MD and Virginia groups for people/events.

 

Dont over think it. Getting stuck and "sadly" breaking parts make for a great story!! Plus you get to buy better parts for your truck. Go with a friend and they can tow you out.

 

I was given some advice I could pass along.


•know your limitations and that of your equipment
•don’t backup to the edge, backup to the bank
•2 wheel in and if you get stuck, 4 wheel to get unstuck, don't 4 wheel in and get stuck, cause then your stuck.
•carry extra cell batt/charger, food/water, recovery and fire fighting gear
•don't go out alone, and /or let someone know the general area your going and stick to it.

 

i’d disagree with the guy above me. It’s best to not get stuck in the first place, and 4x4 assists that. Momentum can carry you through otherwise impassable areas, such as mudholes

just get out there, get comfortable with the vehicle and the terrain you’ll be traversing.
—because what works at Moab won’t work clambering up some muddy leaf-strewn mountain pass

If you can convoy with another rig that’s all the better as you can pull eachother out

Check out this thread
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/3rd-gen-traction-control-modes-explained.530695/

I find A-TRAC works very well and almost never use the locker

i do wish low range was lower for climbing over rocks

 

This is the BEST advice ever. Go with a club. They will know the trails, how to spot you, how to coach you, and how to save you. You’ll get a good feel for recovery equipment, it’s use, safety, and it’s limitations.

 

Maybe air down your tires depending on the terrain?

 

But only if you have a reliable way to air back up

 

https://www.walmart.com/browse/auto-tires/hi-lift-jacks/91083_5941050_4020250_8627497

 

AllTrails

 

I tell every MT to let the truck do the work so 4wd is your friend. The rear diff locker when climbing or anytime traction is compromised.

Save your clutch, don't burn it out .

 

When In doubt, throttle it out.... just kidding, do not slow down in mud or sand. If you’ve never done it before please bring a buddy with another rig. You don’t wanna get lost or stuck somewhere.

 

Man I knew TW wasn't just full of D bags

 

Easy roads... 4Hi as soon as you leave pavement. Saves the road and helps with stability. Have FUN!! Never doubt yourself. If it looks sketchy, don't do it until you know more and are with someone more experienced. Best advice someone had, get involved with your local 4 Wheelers. They can teach you lots technique-wise and route-wise, and you'll make some great friends!!