Off-road Trail Ratings

Beginner's Guide to Understanding the Different Systems

Embarking on an off-roading adventure can be an exhilarating experience, but it's important to understand the various trail rating systems to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. In this guide, I will  explore three popular off-road trail rating systems and what they mean for new off-roaders.

There are a lot of different ratings systems across the US. Researching is key to a successful off-road adventure. Nate and I discussed these systems on Episode 10 of The OffRoad Insiders Podcast 👉 Watch Here

Beginner's Guide to 4x4 Off-road Trail Rating System 👉 Watch Here

The 10-Point Rating System

Developed by the United Four Wheel Drive Associations (UFWDA), this system assigns trails a numerical rating from 1 to 10 based on difficulty. A rating of 1-2 indicates an easy, well-maintained trail suitable for beginners, while a rating of 9-10 signifies a highly challenging trail that should only be attempted by experienced off-roaders with heavily modified vehicles. This system is widely used and easy to understand, making it a great starting point for new off-roaders.

The Green-Blue-Black System

Similar to ski slope ratings, this system uses colors to indicate trail difficulty. Green trails are the easiest and most suitable for beginners, while blue trails offer a moderate challenge. Black trails are the most difficult and should only be attempted by experienced off-roaders with well-equipped vehicles. This system is simple and intuitive, making it a popular choice among off-roading enthusiasts.

The Red-Yellow-Green System

In this system, red trails are the most difficult, requiring highly modified vehicles and experienced drivers. Yellow trails offer a moderate challenge, while green trails are the easiest and most suitable for beginners. This system is less common than the 10-point and green-blue-black systems but is still used in some off-roading communities.

Know Your Skill Level

When choosing a trail, new off-roaders should always consider their skill level, vehicle capabilities, and the trail rating system used in their area. It's also important to research the specific trail conditions, as weather and other factors can significantly impact the difficulty of a trail.

Understanding off-road trail ratings is crucial for new off-roaders to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. By familiarizing yourself with the various rating systems and choosing trails that match your skill level and vehicle capabilities, you'll be well on your way to exploring the great outdoors in style.