5 Lesser-Known Off-Road Destinations to Explore

Escape the Crowds

The Jeep life is all about adventure, freedom, and exploring the road less traveled. While iconic trails like Moab’s Hell’s Revenge and California’s Rubicon Trail attract Jeepers from around the world, there’s a wealth of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. There are lesser known off-road destinations that promise breathtaking scenery, unique challenges, and unforgettable adventures.

Stoney Pass – Colorado

Why It’s a Hidden Gem

Nestled in the San Juan Mountains, Stoney Pass is a lesser-known trail that offers an unparalleled mix of history and high-altitude adventure. Once a key route during Colorado’s mining boom, this trail now provides a quiet escape with dramatic alpine views. Its remote location and the challenging terrain ensure fewer crowds, making it a must-visit for off-roaders seeking solitude and stunning landscapes.

Journeying through the breathtaking landscapes of Stoney Pass
– where the mountains meet adventure.

Difficulty Level

Stoney Pass is rated as moderate to difficult. The trail’s high elevation, rocky paths, and occasional water crossings demand both skill and a capable 4WD vehicle. Weather conditions can quickly change, adding to the trail’s challenge, especially in early spring or late fall.

Trail Highlights

• Breathtaking Alpine Views: The trail climbs above the tree line, offering panoramic vistas of the San Juan Mountains.
• Rich History: Pass remnants of mining cabins and learn about the region’s role in Colorado’s gold and silver rush.
• Seasonal Beauty: Experience vibrant wildflowers in the summer and golden aspens in the fall.
• Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for marmots, elk, and even mountain goats in the higher elevations. When I wheeled this trail we spotted amazing wildlife like a moose grazing and a mountain goat high on the mountain wall.

Pro Tip: Check the weather before you go—storms can roll in quickly at high altitudes. Be prepared for cooler temperatures even in summer and carry layers. Fuel up beforehand, as there are no nearby gas stations, and ensure your vehicle has good tires and recovery gear for the rocky sections. If possible, plan your trip during the week to avoid any chance of weekend crowds.

Trail N202 Near Pioneertown, California

Why It’s a Hidden Gem 

Tucked away in the rugged terrain near Pioneertown, Trail N202 offers a serene escape from the more crowded California trails. This lesser-known gem combines historical charm with off-road adventure. Originally built as a movie set for Old Westerns, Pioneertown sets the stage for your journey, while the trail itself leads you into the heart of the California desert's quiet beauty. Its relative obscurity makes it a peaceful alternative to busier trails.

Step into the Old West at Pioneertown
– a charming historic stop on your off-road adventure.

Trail Difficulty

Trail N202 is rated as moderate, making it suitable for experienced off-roaders and adventurous beginners with properly equipped vehicles. The trail features sandy washes, rocky sections, and a few steep inclines that require careful navigation. A 4WD vehicle with good ground clearance is essential.

Trail Highlights

• Stunning Desert Landscapes: The trail meanders through Joshua tree groves and expansive desert vistas, offering breathtaking photo opportunities.
• Pioneertown Charm: Start or end your day exploring the quirky and historic Pioneertown, complete with its Old West facades.
• Wildlife Sightings: Keep an eye out for desert wildlife, including jackrabbits, roadrunners, and even the occasional coyote.
• Solitude: Unlike heavily trafficked trails, you’re likely to enjoy stretches of the trail all to yourself.

ProTip: Start early to avoid the midday desert heat and carry extra water, even during cooler months. Cell service can be spotty, so download maps beforehand and let someone know your plans. Don’t forget to air down your tires to handle the sandy stretches with ease.

This trails takes you near the trailhead of Gold Mountain a Jeep Badge of Honor Trail.

Willow Springs Road - Near Moab

Why It’s a Hidden Gem

Willow Springs Road offers a scenic and adventurous alternative to the busy main entrance of Arches National Park. This off-road trail combines a peaceful desert drive with a direct gateway into the park, bypassing the typical crowds. Along the way, you’ll encounter breathtaking landscapes, ancient petroglyphs, and free camping opportunities, making it a perfect blend of convenience and adventure.

Taking in the stunning views at Arches National Park
– Jeep Momma’s ultimate adventure spot!

Trail Difficulty

The trail is rated easy to moderate. While most of the route is manageable for stock 4WD vehicles, some rocky and sandy sections require cautious driving. It’s a great choice for beginners or those seeking a laid-back off-road experience.

Trail Highlights

• Backdoor Entry to Arches National Park: Experience a unique and scenic approach to the park, offering an adventurous prelude to your visit.
• Petroglyphs and History: Discover ancient Native American rock art etched into the canyon walls, a must-see for history enthusiasts.
• Free Dispersed Camping: Enjoy a night under the stars with no camping fees, surrounded by the quiet beauty of Utah’s desert.
• Unbeatable Scenery: Red rock formations, distant mesas, and a pristine desert landscape accompany you along the trail.

Stepping back in time at Arches National Park
 – Jeep Momma with a fossilized dinosaur track!

Pro Tip: Check trail conditions before your trip, as rain can make parts of the route difficult. Start early in the day to secure a camping spot if you plan to stay overnight. Make sure to air down your tires for better traction on sandy stretches, and bring plenty of water and sunscreen to prepare for the desert environment.

Secret Pass, Arizona

Why It’s a Hidden Gem

Secret Pass is tucked away in the Black Mountains of western Arizona, offering a secluded off-road experience with jaw-dropping scenery and a touch of mystique. The trail winds through a rugged canyon, revealing stunning rock formations, fascinating geology, and an adventurous path less traveled. Its relative obscurity makes it a true hidden gem for off-roaders seeking a unique and peaceful escape.

Exploring Secret Pass with Jeep Momma
– adventure, smiles, and unforgettable trails!

Trail Difficulty

The trail is rated moderate, with rocky terrain, narrow sections, and some steep climbs. A high-clearance 4WD vehicle is necessary, and experience in navigating challenging desert trails will come in handy.

Conquering the rugged terrain of Secret Pass
– where adventure meets stunning desert beauty!

Trail Highlights

• Breathtaking Rock Formations: Marvel at the dramatic spires, towering cliffs, and unique geological features that line the canyon.
• Historic Mining Relics: Discover remnants of Arizona’s mining history, including old equipment and ruins scattered along the trail.
• Wildlife Encounters: Keep an eye out for desert bighorn sheep, hawks, and other local wildlife in their natural habitat.
• Remote Solitude: The trail’s off-the-beaten-path nature ensures a quiet, crowd-free experience.

Pro Tip: Start early to avoid the heat, as shade can be limited in the canyon. Bring extra water and a full tank of gas since services are scarce in this remote area. Consider traveling with a buddy vehicle for added safety and don’t forget a camera to capture the incredible views!

Escalante Canyon Road - Near Delta, Colorado

Why It’s a Hidden Gem

Escalante Canyon Road is a hidden treasure in western Colorado, offering a mix of rugged beauty, fascinating history, and peaceful isolation. This scenic trail winds through a stunning canyon carved by the Gunnison River, showcasing dramatic red rock walls, unique geological features, and historical homesteads. Its quiet charm makes it a perfect destination for off-roaders seeking a laid-back yet visually stunning journey.

Trail Difficulty

This road is considered easy to moderate. It’s accessible to most high-clearance vehicles, though some rocky and sandy sections may require 4WD. The route is generally well-maintained, making it suitable for beginners and families looking for a scenic adventure.

Trail Highlights

• Towering Red Rock Cliffs: Drive through narrow canyon walls that showcase vibrant layers of sandstone and natural beauty.
• Historical Sites: Stop to explore old homesteads and learn about the pioneering families who once lived in the canyon.
• Water Features: Enjoy picturesque views of the Gunnison River and seasonal waterfalls cascading down the canyon walls.
• Peaceful Solitude: Unlike more popular trails, Escalante Canyon Road allows you to immerse yourself in the tranquility of Colorado’s backcountry.

Relaxing under the open skies at our
Escalante Canyon campsite – pure off-road serenity!

Pro Tip: Visit in the spring or fall for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic pull-offs, and don’t forget a camera to capture the canyon’s dramatic landscapes. Keep an eye out for rattlesnakes and bring plenty of water to stay hydrated during your trip.


These hidden off-road destinations are perfect for Jeepers seeking new challenges and unforgettable scenery in 2025. Whether you’re scaling rocky peaks, cruising along sandy shores, or tackling rugged forests, there’s something here for everyone.

Simplify Camp Cooking

Minimalist Tips to Maximize Your Camping Adventure

Camping is all about enjoying nature, spending time with loved ones, and making memories—not spending hours on complicated meal prep or lugging around a carload of gear. Over the years, I’ve learned that the key to stress-free camping is simplicity. By packing smart and planning meals that do double duty, you can free up time to explore, relax, and truly soak in the camping experience.

Nothing beats the simplicity
of cooking over an open campfire.

Why Simplify Camp Cooking?

When you strip down your cooking routine, you:

• Pack less, leaving room for other essentials (or for just traveling light).

• Spend less time cooking and cleaning, so you can enjoy hiking, stargazing, or chilling by the fire.

• Waste less food by repurposing leftovers into new meals.

• Have fewer dishes to clean—because let’s face it, no one loves campsite cleanup.

Tips to Make Camp Cooking Easy

Prep ahead of time at home. Cooking while camping doesn’t have to mean eating bland, boring food. With a little planning and a few clever tricks, you can whip up meals that are just as good (if not better!) than what you’d make at home. Here are my favorite camp cooking tips to make your outdoor dining experience simple and enjoyable.

1. Prep at Home, Relax at Camp

The less prep you have to do at the campsite, the more time you’ll have to relax. Here’s what you can prepare ahead of time:

• Chop and Slice: Dice your veggies, fruits, and herbs before leaving.

• Marinate: Marinate your meats and store them in resealable bags.

• Measure Ingredients: Portion out things like rice, pasta, or spices to avoid overpacking.

• Pre-Crack Eggs: Crack eggs into a bottle or jar to save space and avoid broken shells.

• Packing your prepped items in clear containers or labeled bags will make it easy to grab what you need.

Prepping fresh ingredients is key to simplifying camp cooking.
A good knife and fresh produce make all the difference.

2. Use Multi-Purpose Ingredients

Packing ingredients that can work across multiple meals is a game-changer. For example:

• Tortillas: Use them for wraps, quesadillas, or even a quick pizza base.

• Cheese: Add it to burgers, quesadillas, or scrambled eggs.

• Veggies: Chop a mix of bell peppers, onions, and zucchini to use in foil packets, omelets, and as side dishes.

When your ingredients serve multiple purposes, you pack less and waste less.

3. Use Foil Packets for Versatile Meals

Foil packet meals are a camping classic. Just combine your favorite ingredients—like sliced potatoes, chicken, bell peppers, and a splash of olive oil—  (think potatoes, veggies, and proteins) then wrap them in aluminum foil. Toss them on the campfire or grill, and you’ve got a no-mess meal. 

Pro Tip: Use heavy-duty foil to prevent leaks and add a double layer if you’re cooking directly on the coals.

4. Pancake Mix in a Bottle

Who doesn’t love pancakes at camp? Mix your batter at home and pour it into a squeeze bottle (like an old ketchup or mustard bottle). When you’re ready to cook, just squeeze out the batter onto your griddle or skillet—no extra dishes required.

5. Spice It Up

Don’t settle for bland food. Bring a small spice kit to elevate your meals. You can:

• Use empty Tic Tac containers to store small amounts of spices.

• Buy a compact camping spice rack.

• Pre-mix your favorite seasoning blends in small resealable bags or jars.

• Some essentials: salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, chili flakes, and cinnamon for breakfast dishes.

6. Campfire Popcorn

Bring some popcorn kernels, aluminum foil, and a little oil. Make a pouch with the foil, add the kernels and oil, seal it tightly, and place it over the fire. Shake it occasionally, and you’ll have freshly popped popcorn in minutes.

7. Keep Your Cooler Organized

• Use Frozen Water Bottles Instead of Ice: They keep everything cold and double as drinking water when melted.

• Pack in Layers: Place items you’ll need first (like lunch ingredients) on top and dinner supplies at the bottom.

• Use Bins or Bags: Separate raw meat, snacks, and drinks into small bins or resealable bags to avoid cross-contamination.

This system saves time and prevents the dreaded “soggy food” situation.

8. Minimize Cooking Gear

Packing fewer tools not only lightens your load but also means fewer dishes to wash.

• Cast Iron Skillet: Works for frying, baking, and grilling.

• Spatula/Tongs Combo: Look for camping tools that combine functions.

• Collapsible Bowls: Great for eating, mixing, and even washing.

• Foil for Cooking: Foil packets make it easy to cook entire meals with no pans required.

Pro Tip: Skip the Fancy Gadgets: It’s tempting to bring every camping gadget, but keeping it simple pays off. A basic setup with a camp stove or grill, a skillet, and a coffee pot is often all you need. Add a few personal touches like a cutting board and sharp knife, and you’re set.

9. Use Parchment Paper for Non-Stick Cooking

Line your pots, pans, or Dutch ovens with parchment paper before cooking sticky foods like fish or eggs. It’s a lifesaver when it comes to cleanup!

10. DIY Fire Starters for Faster Cooking

Having a steady flame is key for cooking over a campfire. You can make these at home with items like:

• Dryer lint stuffed into empty toilet paper rolls.

• Wax poured over cotton balls in an egg carton.

• Charcoal wrapped in foil for easy ignition.

• Petroleum Jelly and cotton balls. 

11. Create a Dishwashing Station

Cooking is fun, but cleanup? Not so much. Less gear means less cleanup. Make it easier with a simple washing station:

• Bring two plastic bins—one for soapy water and one for rinsing. I use bins that I pack my camping essentials in. 

• Add biodegradable dish soap and a sponge with a scrubby side.

• Use a quick-drying towel to save space.

• Use a mesh laundry bag to hang dry your dishes. 

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to strain your dishwater and dispose of it at a proper waste site to protect the environment.

12. Think Outside the Box

Skip traditional camping meals and try these fun ideas:

• Grilled Sandwiches: Bring a pie iron to make melty sandwiches over the fire. Ham & cheese, pepperoni, cheese and pizza sauce, Philly cheesesteaks, or cherry or apple pies. 

• Breakfast Burritos: Pre-make burritos, wrap them in foil, and warm them on the grill.

• Dutch Oven Cobbler: Layer canned fruit and cake mix in a Dutch oven for an easy dessert.

• Campfire Pizza: Use French bread or Boboli pizza crusts, top with sauce, cheese, and any leftovers, and grill until melty.

13. Don’t Forget Snacks

Snacks can double as quick meals when you don’t feel like cooking. Pack simple, no-prep options like trail mix, granola bars, fruit, and cheese sticks.

14. Cook Once, Eat Twice (Or More)

Planning meals that can be repurposed for the next day is my go-to trick. It saves time, minimizes waste, and keeps your cooler organized.

Campfire Grilled Chicken → Chicken Wraps or Salads

Meal 1: Grilled Chicken Dinner

Season chicken breasts or thighs with a simple spice rub or marinade.

Grill over the campfire or on a portable grill. Pair with foil-packet veggies or baked potatoes.

Meal 2: Chicken Wraps or Salads or Tacos

Slice leftover grilled chicken and use it to make wraps with tortillas, lettuce, cheese, and ranch or hot sauce. You can also shred for chicken tacos.

Alternatively, toss the chicken with greens, nuts, dried fruit, and a simple vinaigrette for a fresh salad.

Foil-Packet Potatoes → Breakfast Skillet

Meal 1: Dinner Side Dish

Cook diced potatoes with olive oil, garlic, and herbs in a foil packet. Pair them with steak, chicken, or sausages.

Meal 2: Breakfast Skillet

In the morning, fry the leftover potatoes in a skillet with some butter. Add scrambled eggs, chopped bacon or sausage, and shredded cheese for a hearty breakfast.

Burgers → Loaded Nachos/Tacos

Meal 1: Classic Burgers

Grill burgers and serve with buns, cheese, and your favorite toppings. I skip the bun to save calories. 

Meal 2: Loaded Nachos or Tacos

Crumble leftover burger patties and layer them on tortilla chips. Add shredded cheese, canned beans, salsa, and jalapeños. Heat over the campfire or grill until the cheese melts.

Chili → Chili Dogs or Chili Mac

Meal 1: Hearty Chili

Make a large pot of chili with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and spices. Serve with cornbread or crackers.

Meal 2: Chili Dogs or Chili Mac

Use leftover chili to top hot dogs for an easy lunch.

Or, stir it into cooked pasta with some shredded cheese for a quick chili mac dinner.

Grilled Vegetables → Veggie Quesadillas

Meal 1: Grilled Veggie Side Dish

Grill a mix of bell peppers, zucchini, onions, and mushrooms with olive oil and seasoning.

Meal 2: Veggie Quesadillas or Breakfast Scramble

Chop leftover veggies and layer them with cheese between tortillas. Cook in a skillet or on a griddle until crispy and melty.

Dutch Oven Pulled Pork → BBQ Sandwiches or Tacos

Meal 1: Pulled Pork Dinner

Slow-cook a pork shoulder in a Dutch oven with BBQ sauce and seasonings. Serve with coleslaw and rolls.

Meal 2: BBQ Sandwiches or Tacos

Use the leftovers for BBQ sandwiches.

Or, stuff the pork into tortillas with chopped onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for tacos.

Rice Bowls → Fried Rice

Meal 1: Rice Bowls

Cook a large pot of rice and top it with grilled meat, veggies, and soy sauce or teriyaki.

Meal 2: Fried Rice

Use the leftover rice to make fried rice. Sauté it with a little oil, add an egg, some chopped veggies, and any leftover meat for a quick and delicious meal.

Sausage and Peppers → Hoagies or Pasta

Meal 1: Sausage and Peppers Skillet

Cook sausages with sliced bell peppers and onions in a skillet. Serve with roasted potatoes or bread.

Meal 2: Sausage Hoagies or Pasta

Slice leftover sausages and toss them into hoagie rolls with the peppers and onions.

Or, chop everything up and mix it into cooked pasta with marinara sauce.

Bonus Tips for Meal Prep and Leftovers

• Bring Small Storage Containers: Perfect for keeping leftovers fresh.

• Label Meals: Use tape or labels to note what’s in each container or bag.

• Plan Overlap: Think about how one meal can flow into the next when planning your menu.

By cooking a little extra and repurposing leftovers, you’ll not only save time and effort, but you’ll also cut down on waste. Plus, who doesn’t love a good second-day meal?

Camping is about enjoying the outdoors, not stressing over what’s for dinner. By simplifying your cooking routine, packing smarter, and planning meals with leftovers in mind, you’ll have more time to relax and explore.

My Top Camping Hacks

A Cozy and Stress-Free Adventure

Camping is one of my favorite ways to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. Over the years, I’ve picked up some simple hacks that make the experience more comfortable, organized, and fun. I also have My Camping Guide that is packed with tips and tricks to help you enjoy your time outdoors to the fullest.

Relaxing at a beautiful campsite in Escalante Canyon, Colorado,
complete with a cozy campfire and stunning red rock views.

1. Keep Bugs Away with Sage

Throw sage into your campfire to help keep mosquitoes and bugs at bay. It smells amazing and works like a charm. For extra bug control, sage-scented candles can add a cozy, homey vibe to your campsite.

2. Warm Clothes in the Morning

Stuff your next-day clothes into your sleeping bag at night. Not only will they be warm when you wake up, but they also double as extra insulation while you sleep.

3. Frozen Water Bottles Over Ice

Here’s a lesson I learned the hard way: melted ice equals soggy food. Even when I tried putting ice in Ziploc bags, it always seemed to leak. Opening my cooler to waterlogged sandwiches and soaked snacks was not the kind of adventure I had in mind. Now, I freeze water bottles instead. They keep everything cold, there’s no mess, and as they melt, I’ve got refreshing drinking water. Win-win!

4. Crack Eggs Ahead of Time

Pre-crack eggs and pour them into a plastic bottle before you head out. This saves time, prevents mess, and makes cooking scrambled eggs super easy.

Cracked eggs stored in a plastic bottle
make outdoor cooking easy and mess-free.
 A simple hack for your next camping adventure!

5. Foam Play Tiles for Tent Comfort

Place foam play tiles under your tent. They’re lightweight, easy to pack, and add an extra layer of comfort and insulation.

6. Bring Your Regular Pillow

I’ll admit it—I’ve forgotten my pillow before. Let me tell you, using bunched-up clothes in a bag didn’t work. I spent the whole night tossing and turning, trying to find a comfortable position. The next morning, I felt like I’d slept on a rock. Now, my pillow is the first thing I pack. Trust me, it’s worth the space in your car for a good night’s sleep!

7. Plastic Storage Bins for a Sink

Don’t bother with a fancy sink bucket. A plastic storage bin works great for washing dishes, and you can use it to store gear when it’s not in use.

Keeping it clean while camping—utilizing a two-bin system
 for washing dishes at a well-stocked picnic table in the great outdoors.

8. Lint as a Fire Starter

Save dryer lint and bring it along as a lightweight and effective fire starter. Pair it with some homemade fire starters for quick campfires, even in damp conditions. I use cotton balls and petroleum jelly for mine. 

9. Tarps Are Your Best Friend

Always pack a tarp or two. They’re perfect for creating a rain shelter, protecting your tent floor, or even serving as an emergency picnic blanket.

10. Solar Lights for Ambiance

Place solar lights around your campsite for safety and ambiance. They’re reusable, eco-friendly, and make your campsite feel magical.

11. Make It Homey

Bring items that make your campsite feel inviting. Sheets and comforters are a game-changer—skip the sleeping bag when it’s warm enough. Add candles (in safe holders) and an outdoor rug for a cozy touch. Bring your comfort items like slippers, your favorite flannel, pillow and camp chair. 

Add a cozy glow to your campsite with
DIY mason jar candle lanterns—simple, stylish,
and perfect for outdoor evenings

12. Camp Chairs Over Logs

Don’t rely on a log for seating. A comfortable camp chair will make evenings around the fire so much more enjoyable.

13. Meal Prep at Home

First you should eat better than you do at home. To make your camping experience more enjoyable do all your meal prep at home this will give you more time to enjoy the outdoors. 

13. Must-Haves for Cold Weather

• Extra blankets or a sleeping bag liner for added warmth.
• Hand warmers for inside your gloves or boots.
• Insulated mugs for your coffee or tea—nothing beats sipping something warm on a chilly morning.

Camping doesn’t have to be uncomfortable or complicated. A little prep and a few clever hacks can make all the difference. Have any favorite camping hacks I didn’t include? Drop them in the comments—I’m always looking for new tips!