Tips: Places to Take Your Jeep

Jeep Adventures for Every Driver, Every Style

Jeeps can go anywhere and do anything!  On pavement, dirt, sand, or rock!  And the best part? You don’t need extreme rock crawling or hardcore obstacles to enjoy your Jeep. Adventure is everywhere, even on easy roads and scenic byways.

Over the years, I’ve wheeled my Jeep across the country, from adrenaline-filled trails to mellow backroads with unforgettable views. On my YouTube Channel "Jeep Life with Jeep Momma, I share all of these adventures extreme, moderate, and even the so-called “Not Real Trails.”

Because here’s the truth:
If you’re enjoying your Jeep, then you’re doing it right.

Watch the full video: Where to Wheel Your Jeep

On the trails in the Mojave Desert

What Counts as a Trail? 

A trail doesn’t have to be extreme to count as a real Jeep trail.
Scenic byways, dirt service roads, forest roads, national park routes, and paved overlooks all provide opportunities for Jeep adventure. While some people equate off-roading with rock crawling, millions of Jeep owners enjoy lighter exploration that focuses on scenery, solitude, and roadless beauty.

Adventure is personal, and your trail is the one that makes you happy.

Driving out West

Why I Love “Not Real” Trails

Yes, I enjoy adrenaline-pumping obstacles and technical challenges. But there’s something special about the quiet, scenic drives those stretches of pavement or dirt that take you through small towns, massive canyons, winding mountain passes, and hidden pockets of natural beauty.

These adventures replenish my soul, offer time for reflection, and remind me why I fell in love with Jeep life in the first place.

You can still find adventure:

• On blacktop roads through the Southwest

• On dirt roads hugging the base of cliffs

• On quiet scenic byways with river views

• In charming small towns with unique food, shops, and history

(See my list: My top 10 Must Visit Small Towns)

Adventure isn’t defined by difficulty—it's defined by experience.

Off road Insiders Podcast: Finding Trails

Jeep Momma Tips for Finding “Not Trails”

1. Search for Scenic Byways

Use Google to find scenic byways in any state. These routes often provide jaw-dropping views without requiring technical driving.

My favorites:

• The Colorado River byway outside Moab

• Highway 95 from Blanding to Hanksville, Utah

2. Change Your Google Maps Settings

If you’re not in a rush:

• Open Google Maps > Settings

• Select Avoid Highways and Avoid Toll Roads

Instant backroad adventure.

3. TrailsOffRoad.com

This site catalogs trails across the United States, including:

• Difficulty ratings

• Mileage and duration

• Elevation

• Waypoints

• Maps with GPS navigation

Great for finding both easy dirt roads and challenging technical trails.

4. Black Canyon National Park (Colorado)

Highway 92 is a paved but thrilling drive with steep drop-offs and breathtaking views. Not recommended if you fear ledges but unforgettable if you don’t.

5. Mesa Verde National Park (Colorado)

Known as one of Colorado’s most scenic drives, this route winds through ancient history, sweeping vistas, and serene overlooks.

6. Backroads Guidebooks

Search Amazon for titles like Backroads & 4-Wheel Drive Trails.
These guidebooks:

• Show scenic routes and technical trails

• Highlight difficult sections

• Include local insider tips

• Map out legal, BLM-approved routes

Great for planning Jeep trips in Colorado, Arizona, Utah, and California.

7. The TAT (Trans-America Trail)

Mapped since the 1980s, the TAT travels across public backroads and forest roads nationwide. Originally designed for motorcyclists, it’s now a popular Jeep route for experiencing rural America away from busy highways. t America’s country Roads.

My Experience on Real and “Not Real” Trails

After years of wheeling across deserts, mountains, forests, and small towns, I’ve learned that the Jeep lifestyle is about experience, not bragging rights. I share my adventures, tips, and honest lessons on my YouTube channel and blog so every Jeeper—new or seasoned—can find a way to explore that fits their comfort level, skill, and interests.

From the Mojave Desert to tiny Western towns, some of my most meaningful Jeep moments happened on simple roads, not rock gardens. That’s the beauty of owning a Jeep.

FAQ: Where to Take Your Jeep 

Do I need extreme trails to enjoy my Jeep?
No. Many Jeepers prefer scenic drives, forest roads, and mellow dirt trails. Adventure is personal, and easy routes offer beautiful experiences without requiring technical skills.

What are the best beginner-friendly Jeep routes?
Scenic byways, national park drives, forest service roads, and BLM-approved backroads are ideal for beginners. Examples include Mesa Verde, Black Canyon, and Utah’s Highway 95.

How do I find legal Jeep trails near me?
Use tools like TrailsOffRoad.com, Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUMs), Backroads guidebooks, or local Jeep clubs. Always verify access rules before driving.

Are paved roads considered Jeep trails?
While they aren’t “off-road,” paved scenic routes still offer incredible adventure, mountain views, canyon overlooks, and photography opportunities. Many Jeep owners enjoy both paved and dirt routes.

What app is best for finding Jeep trails?
TrailsOffRoad, OnX Offroad, Gaia GPS, and Google Maps (with backroad settings) are excellent for planning routes.

Is the Trans-America Trail (TAT) Jeep-friendly?
Yes. While originally mapped for motorcyclists, much of the TAT includes gravel, dirt, and backroads suitable for Jeeps. Some sections may now be paved due to road updates.

Do “Not Real Trails” still count as Jeep adventures?
Absolutely. If you’re exploring, learning, and enjoying your Jeep, then the trail is real. Adventure doesn’t need to be extreme to be meaningful.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're conquering rock obstacles or cruising along a quiet scenic byway, your Jeep can take you anywhere your heart wants to go. Don’t let anyone tell you what a “real” trail is—your adventure is defined by your joy, not someone else’s opinion.

Wherever you choose to go, keep exploring, stay curious, and enjoy every mile.