The Dangers of Wheeling Alone

Recently, our club was contacted by an individual who was reaching out to us for help recovering his Jeep on a snowy mountainside. This individual ventured out alone one day up a steep shelf road and unfortunately his Jeep slid off the trail and was not able to get it back on the road. Conditions that day seemed favorable for a recovery, however the conditions quickly changed the next day.

A snow storm rolled in dropping several inches of new snow on the area while the wind created drifts feet deep on the narrow switchbacks. A recovery at this point became very dangerous. Once the stuck Jeep had been looked over, it became clear that even in ideal conditions a recovery of this type was going to be tricky. Ice and snow obviously diminished the chances of reaching the vehicle, let alone attempting to recover it.

I think we can all confess to wheeling alone. It is by no means a bad thing. There is no reason that one cannot go out and explore this great country by themselves. However, the risks of wheeling alone drastically change from season to season. The same graded trail that has no issues in the summer, can become a slippery, axle eating monster in the fall with just a little bit of snow. It is these risks that we must be aware of and be prepared for when venturing out alone.

I have seen over and over again, people say "do not wheel alone", "it's stupid to wheel alone", etc. There have been similar comments about wheeling in a stock vehicle. Now I will be the first to admit that it certainly isn't the first choice to wheel alone or stock but I don't think that it is as dangerous as some like to make it out to be. As long as you realize that you are alone and that you are in a stock vehicle there is no reason you can't go out and have fun and be safe at the same time.

That being said, lets talk about wheeling alone. If you are going to wheel alone, go places that are not far from civilization. If you are always in cell phone range then you know you can always get help if needed. If you are going to a place that is not in cell phone range, then make sure you are able to walk back to civilization to get help. Always head back well before dark if you aren't prepared to walk back in the dark. The key is to realize you are alone and to wheel like you are alone and not with a group, don't take undue risks and always be aware of your surroundings

As for wheeling stock, sure everyone would love to have a 6'' lift, 37s, lockers, and a Warn power plant, but the reality is not everyone can. Some people have stock Jeeps.  So just know, if you are wheeling in a stock vehicle, then be aware that you are in a stock vehicle and don't try to go places that you need lift and armor and a winch to get to. You can have fun in a stock vehicle as long as you are careful, you are aware of your surroundings and you don't try to go beyond the limits of your vehicle. This includes knowing the type of tire you have, and the condition they are in. It doesn't matter how big your tires are, bald tires don't get traction. Also, street tires probably aren't going to do so hot in the snow or mud. It is all about knowing the capability of your jeep and not being overconfident.

I could go on and on but I will leave at this. You can wheel alone, and in any vehicle, as long as you are careful and know your limitations.

Winter is upon us. There are still plenty of trails open during the winter, but know it's winter. Have a shovel with you, bring a coat, bring extra food and water just in case. And it NEVER hurts to have some sort of cutting tool with you like an axe or bowsaw to ensure a downed tree doesn't trap you on the trail.


Ryan Boudreau
MHJC Trip Planner