Off-Roading in North Georgia

---

Before you take your Jeep off the pavement, it’s important to understand that off-roading isn’t just about adventure — it’s about preparation, safety, and respect for the environment. Whether you’re exploring Georgia’s red clay trails or the mountain passes of Tennessee, this checklist covers what to bring, what to check, and how to stay safe out there.

Before you hit the trail, get familiar with your vehicle’s systems and limitations.

• 4WD System: Learn how and when to use 4-High and 4-Low. 
  • 4-High: for dirt roads, sand, and mild trails. 
  • 4-Low: for steep climbs, rock crawling, and mud.
     
• Traction & Lockers: Know if you have limited-slip or locking differentials and when to engage them.
   
• Tire Pressure: Air down to 15–20 PSI (depending on terrain) to increase traction.
   
• Skid Plates & Clearance: Check what’s protected underneath and know your lowest clearance point (often the differential).
   

Even on short trips, carry basic recovery and safety gear. You never know when you’ll need it — or when you’ll be helping someone else.

• Tow straps (no hooks — use soft shackles or D-rings) 
• Recovery points (front and rear) 
• Tire pressure gauge and portable air compressor 
• Shovel and traction boards 
• Winch (if equipped) and remote control 
• Work gloves
   

• Basic tool kit (sockets, wrenches, screwdrivers) 
• Tire repair kit and full-size spare 
• Jack and lug wrench 
• Engine oil, coolant, brake fluid 
• Zip ties, duct tape, and bungee cords
   

• Paper map or offline GPS (cell service often fails) 
• Compass 
• CB radio, GMRS, or handheld two-way radios 
• Fully charged cell phone and portable charger
   

You’re the most important part of your off-road setup. Pack for comfort, weather, and emergencies.

• Water (1 gallon per person, per day) 
• Food and snacks (high-protein, non-perishable) 
• First-aid kit 
• Flashlights or headlamps with spare batteries 
• Sunscreen, bug spray, and sunglasses 
• Emergency blanket and rain gear 
• Fire extinguisher (mounted within reach)
   

Do a quick walkaround before leaving pavement — it’ll save you time and trouble later.

1. Check fluids: oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer. 
2. Inspect tires: tread, pressure, and sidewall condition. 
3. Secure cargo: tie down everything inside and in the bed. 
4. Check recovery gear: make sure it’s clean, untangled, and easy to reach. 
5. Fuel up: trails often have no nearby gas stations. 
6. Tell someone where you’re going: especially on solo trips.
    

Once you’re on the trail, take it slow and steady. Off-roading is about control, not speed.

• Drive at a crawl: Use 4-Low when needed and keep momentum in mud or sand. 
• Keep thumbs out of the steering wheel: Sudden jerks can injure you. 
• Stay on marked trails: Protects nature and avoids getting stuck. 
• Spotter use: Have someone outside guide you over rocks or obstacles. 
• Don’t straddle deep ruts: Pick a tire line and stick with it. 
• Use hill descent control (if equipped): Or apply gentle braking downhill.
   

If you get stuck — and you will, eventually — stay calm and assess before acting.

1. Stop spinning the tires; it digs you in deeper. 
2. Clear mud or debris around the tires. 
3. Try rocking gently between Drive and Reverse. 
4. Use traction boards or fill holes with rocks or branches. 
5. If you must use a tow strap, ensure both vehicles have rated recovery points and communicate clearly. 
6. Never use a chain or hook — they can snap dangerously.
    

Being part of the Jeep community means taking care of the trails for everyone else.

• Tread Lightly: Stay on designated paths, avoid sensitive areas, and don’t cut new trails. 
• Leave No Trace: Pack out trash, including food scraps and fluids. 
• Yield Properly: Uphill traffic has the right of way. 
• Be courteous: Help fellow Jeepers, wave to others, and respect private property. 
• Keep noise down: Especially near campgrounds and wildlife areas.
   

The work doesn’t end when the fun does.

• Wash off mud and salt to prevent rust. 
• Inspect undercarriage, shocks, and axles for damage. 
• Refill tires to road pressure. 
• Check for fluid leaks. 
• Clean and repack your recovery gear for next time.
   

Off-roading is about more than obstacles — it’s about freedom, learning, and the friends you make along the way. Start with easy trails, practice recovery skills, and always wheel responsibly. With the right preparation, your Jeep will take you places most vehicles never could.

"As Jeepers like to say — the trail doesn’t end where the pavement does. It’s where the adventure begins.”