First Time Wheelin' in the Ice & Snow

Like every trip to Rausch Creek, this one was filled with much anticipation and excitement. I was apprehensive and nervous because I was unsure how much snow would be on the trails. 

I had never wheeled in the snow and wasn't sure how that would affect my driving.

Excitement flowed as I knew I would be meeting new friends with a shared love of Jeeps and off-roading. Each time I hit the trails in my Jeep my admiration for the Jeep community grows. It's incredible how complete strangers can transform into Jeep Off-Road buddies in an instant because of a shared passion for Jeeps. 

There's a saying "It's a Jeep thing" that most people don't comprehend unless you have that passion for your Jeep.   

Check out this blog post Snow Driving Tips to help you maneuver in the snow on the trails. 

Rausch Creek Jeep group

During my first Women's Wheeling trip at Rausch Creek Off Road Park, I met fellow Jeeper who was preparing to install the same Front Bumper as mine. 

For more on My Front Bumper Install take a look at this post. 

Engaging in a lively conversation for about five minutes, we immediately connected and we exchanged email addresses. Little did I know that those five minutes would foster a lasting wheeling camaraderie.

Exploring the Trails at Rausch Creek

I ventured out to meet my newfound friend and a few others to explore the trails at Rausch Creek during my first snow wheeling adventure. It marked the maiden voyage of my Rubicon on snowy and icy terrains, a thrilling first-time off-roading experience in such conditions.

Jeep Momma selfie with front grille

Navigating Snow and Ice

Growing up in Minnesota and North Dakota, I've had my fair share of driving through snow and ice. However, maneuvering off-road amidst these conditions presents an entirely different challenge. Driving on paved roads full of snow is a much different than a trail filled with rocks and trees lining the path. 

Jeeps on snowy trails

Snowy Terrain: A Surprising Advantage

Surprisingly, crawling over rocks seemed more manageable with the snow. The snow compacted into the crevices, providing a smoother drive. While it eased the journey, Jeepers like us thrive on the challenge of rocky terrains. 

snowy trail at Rausch Creek

Challenges of Ice

However, this trip presented a new challenge: slick, slippery ice. Firstly, we had to remain vigilant for icy patches to avoid spinning out of control. Despite my attentiveness, my tires spun several times, highlighting the treacherous nature of the icy terrain. Secondly, while navigating the rocks, my Jeep's rear end would occasionally fishtail, disrupting my intended course and adding a thrilling twist to the adventure.

Jeep Momma selfie

Engaging Axle Locks

Reflecting on the journey, I realized that I had overlooked a crucial aspect: engaging my axle locks by pressing that magical button. This probably wasn't a great time to use the axle locks for the first time though. 

Another off-roading skill to I need learn, but during a time when I can be in a more controlled environment so I can experiment. It's a lesson learned, signaling my anticipation for another exhilarating trip back to Rausch Creek in the near future. The more I tackle the trails the more comfortable I will be to know when to use the axle lock button and when my Jeep will get me through with out it.  

For more of Jeep Momma's off-road journey check out my Adventures page. 

Starting My First Bucket List

The Next Chapter After My Mini-List

About two years after writing my Mini-Bucket List, I realized I was ready for more. That first little list gave me confidence, clarity, and courage. It was the spark that helped me dream bigger.

But starting my first real bucket list wasn’t easy. I struggled at first—where do you begin when the possibilities feel endless?

My Motto: Live Life to the Fullest

One morning, it hit me: I wasn’t “waiting for someday” anymore. I was already in that stage of life I used to think was far off. So I adopted a new motto: Live Life to the Fullest.

That meant no more waiting for the perfect time to chase adventure or face fears. It was time to expand my list.

Warrior Dash Obstacle

My First Expanded Bucket List

Here’s what I added when I created my first bigger list:

• Drive through the Redwood Forest 

• Canoe the Boundary Waters in Minnesota 

• Visit a “Dude Ranch” in Wyoming (I ended up living in Wyoming for almost 3 years)

• Rock crawl the Rubicon Trail (achieved July 2020)

• Attend a Murder Mystery Dinner (achieved in 2024)

• Climb a Volcano in Hawaii 

• Revisit Yellowstone  (done June 2023)

• Camp in the Grand Canyon  (done October 2022)

• Go on a Treasure Hunt 

• Go Dancing (this is ongoing)

• Find a job I love (achieved!)

• Release my past (achieved 2025)

What I Learned Expanding My List

• Small goals matter: Karaoke, trying new restaurants, and bowling made my list feel fun and achievable.

• Adventure fuels me: Jeep off-roading, hiking, and travel kept showing up—clearly part of who I am.

• Growth is ongoing: Every time I complete a goal, I see more clearly what matters most.

Looking Back, Looking Forward

That first expansion was just the beginning. My bucket list has continued to evolve, and today it lives on my How to Create a Bucket List page where I track all my goals, dreams, and completed adventures.

If you’re starting your own list, I recommend beginning where I did—with a Mini-Bucket List. Then, as you grow, let your list grow too.

FAQ: Starting Your First Bucket List

Q: How did you move from a mini-bucket list to a full one?
A: I started small, gained confidence, and then expanded my list into travel, personal growth, and Jeep adventures.

Q: What kinds of goals should I include?
A: Mix it up! Include adventures, self-growth, fun hobbies, and experiences that connect with family and friends.

Q: Do I have to finish everything on my list?
A: No—it’s about the journey, not checking boxes. Some items will drop off, others will change, and that’s okay.

Closing Thought

Your first bucket list doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to be yours. Start small, expand when you’re ready, and let your list reflect the life you want to live.

👉 Begin here: Mini-Bucket List → Starting My First Bucket List → Bucket List Guide