Wednesday, July 10, 2019

A Jeeper's Paradise

Off-Road in the Virginia Mountains

Nestled outside Gore, Virginia, The Cove Campground is a mecca for off-road enthusiasts. Contrary to the rumors of it being exclusively for hardcore rock crawlers, I discovered a diverse range of trails suitable for all skill levels.

The Cove boasts an impressive network of trails, ranging from beginner-friendly level 1 paths to expert-level 10 challenges. This variety ensures that every off-roader, regardless of experience, can find their perfect match.


My Jeep parked at camp


Breathtaking Scenery


Beyond the adrenaline-pumping obstacles, The Cove offers stunning natural beauty. The rugged landscape provides a picturesque backdrop for my off-roading adventure, making every turn a photo opportunity.

Friday: Arrival and Setup

I arrived on Friday, eager to set up camp for the weekend. I was joining the Off Camber Crawlers (OCC) during a Big Dogs Off Road event. The OCC, a family-oriented off-road group, welcomed me as I worked towards becoming a full-fledged member.


My tent set up at the Cove Campground
My tent at camp

Saturday: Hitting the Trails

Level 5 Trails

To get a feel for the terrain, I started with the level 5 trails. These proved to be an excellent introduction, offering a mix of challenging obstacles and manageable terrain. The experience left me confident that I could tackle level 6 and 7 trails in the future.

My Jeep on the trails near Gore, Virginia
My Jeep on the trails

Notable Trails


Some of the standout trails I conquered included:

👉 Trail Nasty
👉 Cobra 7
👉 Lower Trickle
👉 Winch Trail
👉 Unamed Trail
👉 More Lower Trickle
👉 Trail V 

As the sun set, I embarked on my first night wheeling experience. This was the perfect opportunity to test out my new  Lux Lighting Systems. The rock lights illuminated the obstacles, adding an extra layer of excitement to the adventure.


My Jeep lit up at night on the trails with the Lux Lighting System.
My Lux Lighting Rock Lights at night

Reflections on The Cove


The Cove Campground exceeded my expectations in every way. From the diverse trail options to the welcoming community of off-roaders, it's clear why this location has such a stellar reputation.

While my videos capture some of the excitement, they can't fully convey the true difficulty and thrill of conquering these trails. The Cove is a place that must be experienced firsthand to truly appreciate its challenges and beauty.


My Jeep on the trails in the Appalachian Mountains of Virginia.
My Jeep on the rocks




Jeep Wrangler Check Engine Light

My Four-Year Journey  For four long years, I drove my beloved Jeep with the check engine light illuminating my dashboard. About two years in...