Wednesday, April 28, 2010

A Look Inside the Moab Jeep Safari

When somebody mentions the Moab Jeep Safari, I instantly think of three things: noise, crazy off-roading, and fun memories.

Moab, Utah is a mecca for off-road enthusiasts and every year at the Annual Moab Easter Jeep Safari the streets rumble with noise as Utah's Red Rock country is invaded with 4x4 vehicles. The site is truly indescribable and must be seen to believe. Although it is called the 'Jeep Safari,' and you will see more Jeeps than anything else, ultimately four-wheel drive is the only qualifier. Every make, model and knock-off can be found here.
The amazing thing about this event is that it attracts people of all types from all over the world. Families, hard-core enthusiasts and people just looking for a good time head to this beautiful terrain called Moab. The Moab Jeep Safari offers more than 50 off-road trails to challenge not only your off-road skills, but also your vehicle. I have had the opportunity to attend this event a few times. What a sight to see! Most of the Jeeps here are modified, but some are just bone stock, or as my brother-in-law calls them, Cheerleader Jeeps, claiming that they are just all for looks.The trails are rated from 1-5, easy to difficult. Some of these trails are absolutely crazy! I am lucky to have an old friend, Calvin, who attends the event annually to give me some close up photos of the 2010 Jeep Safari. Calvin has been working on vehicles since Jr. High. He is truly 'The Man' at the Jeep Safari.

Calvin has custom built his Jeep himself. It is a 1978 CJ-7 with 1ton axles, a custom 4 link rear suspension, and a custom 3 link front suspension with fox coilovers and full hydraulic steering. His wheelbase has been extended to 117 inches for steep climbs and shooting up waterfalls. And it rides on 38.5" tall super swamper tires!

The Moab trails cover some of the most rugged and scenic country you can find. Forest, desert, steep canyon walls and rims, rivers, mountains, and the famous Moab "slick rock" provide for variety and fascinating beauty.

During my visits to Moab, I have seen some of the most incredible and insane things. I distinctly remember one obstacle called 'Potato Salad Hill'. Vehicle after vehicle would attempt to make it up 'Potato Salad Hill' with no luck. Vehicles continually roll off or slide off (except the Dodge Trucks and Jeeps, of course...) yet a line of vehicles still form for more enthusiasts to attempt to beat the challenge. When a vehicle actually successfully made it up the hill, what a thrill to see! If you enjoy off-roading, the Moab Jeep Safari should be added to your list of 'Things of Do'.

If you have any questions, please email me at kori@getdodge.com

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