Monday, October 30, 2017

A Jeep Adventure to Remember

Women's Wheeling Day at Rausch Creek Off Road Park


Women's Wheeling Day at Rausch Creek Off Road Park has become a highlight of my year, and this year's event was no exception. As I attended for the fourth time, I was amazed to see over 200 incredible women join in the fun.

The growth of this event is truly remarkable. What started as a small gathering of just eight women in 2013 has blossomed into a massive celebration of female Jeep enthusiasts.


Jeep Momma Off Road at Rausch Creek
Jeeps posing on the rock for a picture


Friday Festivities: Swag and Socializing


My adventure began early as I helped stuff swag bags with JeepMomma bracelets, purple Jeep Talk Show koozies, and other goodies from various vendors. The excitement was palpable as we prepared for the influx of participants.

Jeep Momma swag for the swag bags at Women's Wheeling Day.
Swag for the Swag Bags


The meet and greet at O'Neal's Pub was a perfect way to kick off the weekend. Reconnecting with old wheeling friends and making new connections set the tone for the incredible days ahead.


My Jeep friend Mandy and myself
My friend Mandy and I


Saturday: Trails, Training, and Teamwork

Advanced Recovery Techniques

Our group of five Jeeps started the day with an advanced winching and hi-lift class presented by NORA4x4. The instructor, Jon, provided invaluable insights into vehicle recovery techniques. This class was a game-changer, inspiring me to seek more training in the future.


NORA 4 x 4 Recovery Class at Rausch Creek
Off-Road Training Class


NORA 4 x 4 Recovery Class
Jon demonstrating recovery techniques



Diverse Trails for All Skill Levels


Rausch Creek Off-Road Park offers a wide range of trails suitable for various skill levels. With over 3,000 acres and 80 miles of trails, there's something for everyone – from stock vehicles to pro rock buggies.

Our group featured a diverse mix of drivers, including a stock Jeep tackling blue (intermediate) trails for the first time. The park's color-coded trail system, ranging from green (easy) to red (extreme), allows groups of different skill levels to run trails together. For the second year in a row, I paired up with Mandy as my Trail Guide, and I served as the tail gunner. We had such a fantastic time last year, so we teamed up again.


Capturing the Moment


JoMarie, a Gazelle Rally 2014 competitor and talented photojournalist from USNomads.org, joined our group and captured some fantastic shots of our Jeeps conquering the rocks.

My Jeep flexing on a rock

My Jeep on Pizza Rock


Camaraderie and Community

The heart of this event lies in the incredible women who attend. The supportive and encouraging atmosphere leaves everyone feeling empowered. My trail buddy, Amanda, a fellow Jeep mom I met online years ago, exemplifies this spirit of camaraderie.

Jeep Moms Off Road at Rausch Creek
Amanda and I

Celebrating Success


After a day of thrilling off-road adventures, we gathered at the pavilion for a well-deserved pizza and salad dinner, courtesy of OK4WD. The event concluded with a generous raffle featuring prizes from various vendors. I was lucky enough to win a gift certificate from Northridge 4x4, which I used to purchase a Bartact Fire Extinguisher Mount for my Jeep.

Winner of a gift certificate

Looking Ahead


Women's Wheeling Day at Rausch Creek Off Road Park is more than just an off-road event; it's a celebration of female empowerment and the incredible Jeep community. As I reflect on this unforgettable experience, I'm already looking forward to next year's adventure.

For those interested in experiencing Rausch Creek Off-Road Park, remember that a minimum group size of two vehicles is required. The park offers monthly guided trail rides and instructional programs for those new to off-roading or looking to improve their skills

Women’s Wheeling Day at Rausch Creek Off Road Park is hands down one of my favorite events of the year! This year marked my fourth year attending, and over 200 amazing ladies joined the fun.


Jeep Momma Off Road at Rausch Creek
Jeeps posing on the rock for a picture


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