My First Blue Trail Adventure

My Journey Beyond the Beaten Path 

Off-roading isn't just about driving on rough terrain - it's a thrilling quest that pushes you to break your own boundaries. Along with putting your Jeep's capabilities to the test. 

As a passionate Jeeper, I found tackling the blue trails at Rausch Creek Off-Road Park was more than just a test for my Rubicon. It was a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. It was a trip to teach me to set daring goals, step out of my comfort zone, and realize how powerful it can be to face challenges head-on.

My Jeep on a trail at Rausch Creek

Setting Goals

Setting goals and actively pursuing them was my new life's mission shortly after I became a Jeeper. Rather than passively waiting for life to unfold, I began living my life actively making things happen. I discovered setting goals and going after them was my key to living life to the fullest. 

Jeep Momma selfie

It's not just about the thrill of off-roading but a deeper reflection of my life's journey, emphasizing the importance of setting and pursuing goals. 

My Jeep on a Rausch Creek Green Trail

Conquering the Blue Trails

Jumping from the easy green trails to the tougher blue trails at Rausch Creek Off-Road Park was a big step for me. It challenged my off-road driving skills. The blue trails, with their more difficult terrains, needed more than just a well-prepared vehicle. They called for a strategic mind and a readiness to learn from others.

Tips from My Experience

Understand the Terrain: I carefully assessed the terrain to identify potential challenges looking for obstacles like rocks, mud, or steep inclines, and planed my route accordingly. This helped anticipate the difficulties ahead and adjust my driving technique to overcome them.

Maintain Momentum: When tackling challenging terrains, I knew I had to maintain a steady momentum. This helps the Jeep's tires maintain traction and prevent them from getting stuck in mud. I needed to be cautious not to go too fast, which could lead to loss of control and potential damage to my Jeep. 

Practice Patience and Mental Resilience: Off-roading can be a demanding and sometimes frustrating experience. It's crucial to stay patient and maintain a positive mindset, especially when things don't go as planned. I had to remind myself it was okay to not make it over the obstacle the first time. Each challenge is an opportunity to improve your skills and grow as a driver.

My Jeep climbing a hill

Building Confidence Through Challenges

The journey through the blue trails was as much about building personal confidence as it was about enhancing off-roading skills. Relying on the guidance of experienced Jeepers and facing each obstacle with cautious optimism taught me valuable lessons in resilience and trust—not just in my vehicle but in myself. 

A good trail guide is going to understand your experience. They are not push you to past your limits but at the same time understand you will be able to make it through with a little encouragement. They will help you build the confidence you need to keep pushing yourself on the trails. This is exactly what I needed. Years later I became one of those guides pushing other Jeepers past their comfort zones.   

My Jeep coming down a small ledge

The Revelation: Embracing My Growth

Successfully navigating these trails pushed my boundaries and bolstered the confidence I needed ---not in my Rubicon, but in myself, which I was lacking. The concern of damaging my daily driver remains, along with a cautious mindset to prevent overconfidence and lowered guard. Reflecting back to those beginning days on the trail I smile at my apprehension on what I now see as easy trails. 

My Jeep traversing rocks

My Jeep sliding over a rock

One discovery is my aversion to water obstacles, as their submerged secrets are unnervingly hidden. Still to this day I am uncomfortable driving through water obstacles. 

Check out my YouTube video from the Water Obstacles at Rausch Creek 

Jeep heading down a hill

Successfully navigating the Tip Top blue trail was a significant achievement, enhancing my confidence with each conquered obstacle, despite them often appearing more daunting from behind the wheel than on video.

Here's the video from the Tip Top Blue Trail at Rausch Creek  

Understanding Limits

Understanding the limits of both myself and my Rubicon, I avoid unnecessary risks that could lead to damage. Even though I know I can wheel the blue trails I still found some green trails challenging., underscoring that there's no need to prove anything by taking undue risks. It's perfectly acceptable to opt for a bypass or decide against a trail that doesn't feel right.

Just like in life you need to know when you are ready to tackle the next obstacle at the same time not be afraid to try.

More video while Navigating Blue Trails 

My Jeep on the blue trails

I was pleasantly surprised at conquering rocky steps on the C Blue trail on Rausch Creek's East property.  Confidence in myself and a more relaxed approach could vastly increase my achievements. I eagerly anticipate my next outing.

Here's video of the Blue C Trail Rausch Creek Off-Road Park   

For more Jeep Momma off-road trail rides check out my Adventures page.