Thursday, August 8, 2019

My First Moab Adventure

Checking Off Another Dream

A non-stop flight from Baltimore to Salt Lake City started my Moab Adventure. I wanted to take my Jeep, but it would have been at least a three day trek across the country ~ Just to get there. I didn't have the luxury of that extra time. 

Jeep Momma Tip #1

 Book the flight to Grand Junction, Colorado not Salt Lake. The drive is just under two hours. The drive from Salt Lake City is four hours.

Del Taco

Whenever I am on vacation, my goal is to eat at restaurants I have never tried before. As I headed for Moab, I found a Mexican Fast Food place. Mexican is my all time fav. Del Taco was delish! 

Colorado River

To get the most out of my trip, I did a lot of internet research. One of the great ideas I found was a link to Moab's Scenic By-ways. Utah 128 was a little detour I just had to take. A spectacular route along the Colorado River gorge. It was absolutely amazing! 

Cisco - a Ghost Town

My first stop was Cisco, Utah - population zero. Yep, a ghost town. Check that off my Bucket List!   Cisco was founded in the 1880's as a saloon town and a water refilling station for steam locomotives along the main line. 


The infamous Moab sign - I was excited to get a selfie


Scenic By-way scenery was breathtaking


The road wound through the canyons along the Colorado River. I kept stopping at the turnouts to take pictures. 

One of the grandest views of the West is along this route. The Red Rock Spires of the Fisher Towers set against the snow covered peaks of the La Sal Mountains is awe-inspiring. The La Sal Mountains were with me every step of that trip.  


Along the Colorado River with the La Sal Mountains in the distance


After checking into my room, I headed out to look for a spot for dinner. Being alone, I wanted a place to eat where I could sit at a bar. There is more of a chance to met people that way. Zax Pizza was it. I ordered a glass of wine and a small pizza. YES, there is alcohol in Utah. The same wine and beer as you can get anywhere. AND you can even get hard liquor. 


Great place to meet others on their adventure


Meeting new people and hearing about their adventures always inspires me!  

Day 2 in Moab started out with an unplanned stop.  A couple of days before I left for Moab, I found out another off-road lady was also in town the same time I was. Charlene Bower, with Ladies OffRoad Network, and I connected on facebook. We decided to meet for breakfast. 

The Iconic Moab Diner
 
Off-Roaders! 

The food and service is fantastic, and each table displays a different off-road company. Charlene and I sat at the Warn Industries table. We had an awesome conversation and decided to hook up again later that evening. Charlene offered to be my passenger during my Sunset Jeep Tour. 

Everything Happens For A Reason! 
 
Deadhorse State Park
      

Next stop Dead Horse State Parkwhere immense vertical cliffs meet with canyons carved by ice and water. The views were phenomenal near the visitors center, and I wasn't even to the Dead Horse Point overlook yet! The point with the most spectacular views around! I decided to hike the East Rim Trail to the overlook. A moderate trail 1.5 miles to the overlook with continuous canyon views. ~ Amazing ~

Dead Horse State Park scenes

Jeep Momma Tip #2

There were a few times I was unsure of which way the trail went. I had to ask a couple who was coming from the opposite direction. They pointed out the trail markers to me ~~ the stacked rocks. I had no idea. Once they were pointed out I saw them every where along my hike. I guess I was too busy looking at the breathtaking views to notice.  

Jeep Momma Tip #3

If you don't have time to hike to Dead Horse Point you can drive to it. Instead of taking the West Rim hike which was 2.5 miles, I just back tracked to the visitor's center. I wanted to hit another park before my evening Jeep ride. So off to Canyonlands National Park 

Carins - Stacked Rocks are trail markers


Canyonlands National Park


WOW! The views are just as spectacular! This park is vast with countless trails for hiking throughout canyons with fantastically formed buttes carved out by the Colorado River. 

One day I would love to come back to this park, and hike a few of their trails. For this trip there was just enough time to drive to each overlook, then spend a few minutes staring out across the canyons. Then it was on to my next adventure!   

canyonlands Scenes

Downtown Moab

I had a little time to fill before it was time to hit the off-road trails. So I found a taco place. I enjoyed some chicken tacos on the outside patio on Main Street in Moab. However, I was too anxious to eat, so after a few nibbles I just tried to relax and watch the Jeeps cruise up and down the street. 


Hells Revenge Here I Come! 

Charlene Bower & myself on top of Hells Revenge


There is the saying "Everything Happens For a Reason!". I truly believe that. Forces brought Charlene Bower and myself together for a reason.   

Fantastic Views

Charlene was the calm to my fear. She helped me face my fear of heights head on. She is a certified I4WDTA trainer ~ international 4 Wheel-drive Trainer's Association. The members go through a stringent training program having to pass written and practical exams

Me in the Jeep

I booked a Jeep and a guide for a Friday Night Sunset Jeep Tour.They offer many types of tours. You can ride-along as a passenger in their Jeep, you can follow along in your Jeep, or you can drive their Jeep and follow along with a guide. The last option is what I picked. I wanted to drive their Jeep!

Selfie with rented Jeep

They are the only company in Moab where you can drive their Jeep AND get a knowledgeable guide to guide you along the trails.

Hell's Revenge was the trail for the night. Hell's Revenge is know for it's high steep climbs, heart pounding descents, and beautiful views of the La Sal Mountains and Negro Bill's Canyon. 

Everything about Hell's Revenge is Heart Pounding! 

Entrance to Hells Revenge

Right off the bat you are thrown to the Lion's Den! The entrance to Hell's Revenge is a "Fin". These are Navajo Sandstone Slickrock formations. The trails is littered with them. Some are steeper than the others.  

hood shot up Hell's Revenge entrance

I have an extreme fear of heights, so this was a huge challenge for me. With Charlene in the passenger seat talking me through my fear, I made it to the top, not as fast as most Jeepers though. I'm sure residents of Moab could hear my cursing echoing through the canyons as I inched my way up the fin. 

Jeep parked on Hell's Revenge

Now, that I was at the top I had to make the journey down the back side only to more fins. Each time it was a little easier, but it was still an intense drive.

Jeep Parked on Hells Revenge

I was in a Wrangler with a 3.5" Ranch lift, Raceline Monster Wheels, 40" STT Pro Tires, Dana Spicer ultimate 60 axles with e lockers and 5:38 gears. 
One Badass Jeep! 

Jeep climbing steps 

Hell's Revenge is trail-rated for a 6. Stock 4x4 vehicles can make it through the trail with by-passes for some of the more challenging obstacles. There are steep climbs and descents, along with some edges that are not for the faint of heart. The steep slopes, however, are not technically difficult because of the excellent traction on the sandstone rock.

Dinosaur Tracks

Once you make it over the first fin, you come up to a cliff over looking the town of Moab. On top of this cliff are some dinosaur tracks in the rock. Pretty Cool, that I was roaming where dinosaurs once lived. 

Hell's Revenge

There are several obstacles on Hell's Revenge. One is called Hell's Gate. This is a very difficult obstacle. So my guide, K.L., took over the driver's seat while I grabbed on tight in the passenger seat. This is one scary ride down then back up again. 

Hell's Gate Video - view from the dash

Hell's Gate Video - view from outside the Jeep  

Even though it was an intense trail, I had a blast. K.L. was very patient and understanding of my fear. He certainly deserves a medal for having to put up with me.  


Hell's Revenege at Night

Since I was on the sunset tour we only had a few hours of sunlight. Normally this tour doesn't run the whole trail. The local tour company's usually just turn around at some point in the trail. Apparently the exit of the trail has become very worn and bumpy. I ended up having to drive the last couple of fins in the dark. So the fin I drove first at the entrance, well I had to drive that in the dark. Talk about intense.  

Night Driving on Hells Revenge

I went to bed this night feeling drained, nervous and excited all at the same time. I was hoping I would be able to make it all day on the trails without Charlene as my supportive passenger. 
Jeep Momma's Hell's Revenge Videos 
   
This video are all the most scary moments I had on Hell's Revenge.  

This is the longer version of my drive on Hell's Revenge. 

This is video of an obstacle on Hell's Revenge. Just my kind of obstacle! 
After my night on Hell's Revenge, I woke up the next morning with a lot of anxiety. I was worried if I would make it on the trails all day long. Hell's Revenge took a lot out of me.

Day 2
Once I arrived I met with K.L., my guide from the night before. He volunteered to be my co-pilot. We loaded up "Shrek", the green beast that I would be driving for the day and headed for the trails. 

KL & myself in Shrek
 
As we headed out for Fins and Things, I was a little more relaxed. K.L. is an awesome guide with a calming voice. He grew up in the Moab area, and has been 4x4'ing the trails since the

Selfie with my Jeep Ride

Fins and Things is an awesome trail. There are some intense fins, but after my initiation the night before, I was able to handle them with minor swearing. 

My Jeep for the day

The trail is in three parts and has many different terrains and obstacles such as Kenny's Climb.



Fins & Things

After finishing all of Fins and Things it was time for a lunch and bathroom break. Then we headed to the other side of Moab for the trail, Poison Spider


Just the entrance alone was enough to put my nerves back on edge ~ harrowing switchbacks with sharp drop offs. Once at the top I was able to relax, until I realized I lost my cellphone. After we tore apart the Jeep, I realized I left in in the bathroom. Sadly, we weren't able to finish the trail. So K.L. got in the drivers seat to get us off the trail as quickly as possible. He tore down that mountainside like he was driving on a straight interstate. We barreled down that thing at a high rate of speed, or what I consider high rate. 

My Jeep ride on Porcupine Rim

Back on the other side of Moab, much to my relief we found my phone. Since it was growing late we decided to stay on that side and ran Porcupine Rim. What a perfect trail, again with many terrains and obstacles. I really enjoyed this trail!

Jeep Momma is in Moab

The whole day was amazing and it left me itching for more trail rides. So I have already begun thinking about my next trip out. 

After turning in the keys to Shrek it was time to get some souvenir shopping done. While walking along Moab's Main Street my phone rang.  It was Charlene, my favorite co-pilot. We met up for dinner at Jay's Pasta. A great stop you should make if you ever find yourself in Moab. 

Charlene & Tammy at dinner


Grandpa's Garage

Then she took me to legendary Grandpa's Garage, a perfect ending to a fabulous day. 


Arches National Park

It was a bittersweet day. I still had a few more adventures left, but it was my last day in Moab. I headed out early to beat the crowds at Arches National Park.  


Arches National Park

The word is the line to get into the park can be a long wait. I decided to get there right when the park opened ~ 7am. 

Wow! Another Utah Jewel. The views were amazing. 


Arches National Park

I stopped at each and every stop in the park with the exception of the last one, Devils Garden. It was closed because of road construction going on in the park. 


Scenes from Arches National Park

At the Delicate Arch stop, I was ready for the 3 mile round trip hike. After checking out the parking lot, I decided against it. There were 3 tour buses full of kids and people ready to make the hike. I don't do crowds very well.

Delicate Arch

I am glad I decided not to do this hike. I instead drove a mile up the road to a spot where I could see the Arch from over a canyon. As I sat by myself I could see the sea of people wondering around the Arch. 

The choice not to make that hike was a good one. The short little hike up a rocky hill was worth it. The peaceful, quiet by myself time, looking out at the beautiful scenes before me was amazing.  


Selfie at Arches National Park

I continued to drive on to the Sand Dune Arch. Very cool little spot, a sandy beach in between the fins. 

From there I continued on to the Broken Arch trail.

Arches National Park

Then the best kept secret. A really cool hike to the lesser renowned trail to the Tapestry Arch

Hiking in the National Park

It was a peaceful, uncrowded hike through sandy trails up and down the slick rock.      

Lunch stop

With Arches now complete it was time for a well deserved
lunch. So I headed back to Zax Pizza for an all you can eat pizza and salad. Plus my favorite, a raspberry martini. During lunch I received a call my boat tour was cancelled due to lack of interest. So I went for a drive along another Moab Scenic by-way ~ Utah 313. 



Colorado River

Utah 313, Potash Road, is a winding ride along the Colorado River. Gorgeous views of an incredible Red Rock Canyon. 

Indian writing on the canyon walls

One of the highlights is Indian writing on the canyon walls. 



Sangria

Then I finished the night off with some Mexican food and a Moab sized Sangria.


WOW! What an Amazing Adventure, one I will never forget and will make again!  




Wednesday, August 7, 2019

Wheeling Rausch Creek with New Jeep Friends

Returning the Hospitality

Giving to those who have given to you is such a good feeling. When I can return a favor it makes me happy. I did just that at the end of July. I hosted some Jeepers from Carolina Trails Off Road at Rausch Creek. I had spent two spring at their events in Uwharrie in North Carolina where they showed me their trails.

"It was then I realized the value of these trips, the friendships we make, and how powerful the healing medicine of adventure truly is." Bryan Draper CTOR President


Jeeps pose for picture at Rausch Creek


Tackling the Trails at Rausch Creek Off-road Park

We spent two days on the blue and black trails, even some red sections. The first trail we hit was Yellow Jacket with a black obstacle, Yellow Jacket Ridge. I decided to by-pass the obstacle. It gave me the chance to relax and be a videographer.

Wheeling 👉 Yellow Jacket Ridge


Jeeps on a Black Trail at Rausch Creek Off-road Park
Jeeps on a black trail


The next trail was Cemetery a black trail with a Red By-pass. I have wheeled this trail previously, so again I got out to walk the trail to get some video. Plus a bonus to work on my spotting skills. 


Rausch Creek Off-Road Park Trails ðŸ‘‰ Cemetery Trail

Rausch Creek Off-Road Park By-pass 👉 Cemetery Trail By-pass


Red Jeep on Cemetery Trail
Red Jeep on the rocks

The next day we were back at it with some more intense trails. We tried out the new Krawlin' For Cops trail, a blue / black trail. Since I hadn't wheeled this trail yet I got back in the driver's seat. WOW! My favorite trail at Rausch Creek. 

Rausch Creek Trails 👉 Krawlin For Cops Trail

Jeep Momma selfie on Krawlin for Cops
Selfie at the Krawlin for Cops Trail


Then we took a jaunt down Trail 13 a purple trail that runs parallel to Rock Creek. I did a little damage to my Jeep. I bent the oil/ transmission skid plate into my exhaust and lost my Vikings tailgate hitch to the rock. 

Rausch Creek Off-Road Park 👉 Trail 13A

Jeep Badge of Honor Trail  ðŸ‘‰ Crawler's Ridge


Our group taking a break on the trails
Jeepers on a trail ride break

What a great weekend on the trails wheeling with great friends I have meet through off roading. Our paths would have never passed if I hadn't bought my Jeep that fateful Memorial Day in 2013.      

My Jeep on the rocks at Rausch Creek off-road park
My Jeep on the rocks



Thursday, August 1, 2019

Top 5 Must Have Hi-Lift Jack Accessories

Safe, Smart Off-Road Recovery

The Hi-Lift Jack is one of the most debated pieces of recovery gear in the Jeep world and for good reason. When used correctly, it can be an incredibly versatile tool for tire changes, lifting a rig out of ruts, and even winching. When used incorrectly, it can be dangerous. The key is proper training, respect for the tool, and having the right accessories to use it safely.

I’ve used the Hi-Lift Jack on countless trails from muddy East Coast forests to rocky Western terrain and these are the accessories that have proven essential over 10+ years of wheeling.

If you’re new to using the Hi-Lift, start with my Hi-Lift Jack Safe Use  video where I break down step-by-step safety techniques. You can also watch my Top 5 Must Have Hi-Lift Accessories video on YouTube for a visual breakdown.

For a complete list of recommended Jeep recovery gear, check out my Jeep Recovery Gear Guide on JeepMomma.com.


The 5 Essential Hi-Lift Jack Accessories

1. WD-40 (or a Quality Penetrating Lubricant)

Why You Need It:
A Hi-Lift Jack must be properly lubricated to function smoothly. Dirt, dust, mud, and rust can cause the climbing pins and mechanism to stick, making the jack unsafe.

Pro Tip:
Spray down the mechanism before every use, and give it a quick wipe after muddy or dusty trail rides. Proper lubrication dramatically extends the life of your jack.


2. Hi-Lift Mount or Storage System

Why You Need It:
Storage is a safety issue. A loose Hi-Lift in your Jeep becomes a projectile in an accident or rollover.

Best Practice:
Store it inside the Jeep and out of the elements whenever possible. I keep mine under the rear seat of my JKU to protect it from weather exposure and road grime, which prevents corrosion and pin seizure.

Alternative Options:

  • Roll-bar mounts

  • Hood mounts

  • Roof racks
    (Just ensure you maintain it often if storing outside.)


3. Hi-Lift Handle Keeper

Why You Need It:
A dangling handle is dangerous. It can rattle, swing, or even cause injury when you're lifting under load.

A handle keeper secures the jack handle to the bar, reducing noise, improving safety, and preventing the handle from popping loose unexpectedly.


Hi-Lift Jack Handle Keeper

4. Hi-Lift Lift Mate

Why You Need It:
Some Jeeps—especially lifted Wranglers with oversized tires—do not have good lift points using the jack’s standard foot. The Lift-Mate allows you to lift directly from the wheel by attaching straps around the spokes.

When It’s Useful:

  • Changing a tire when your axle droops too far

  • Lifting a tire to stack rocks or clear obstacles

  • Recovering when your recovery points are buried

This accessory keeps the lifting height manageable and safer.


Hi-Lift Lift Mate



5. Hi-Lift Off Road Base


Why You Need It:
Soft ground, mud, snow, and sand reduce stability when jacking. An Off-Road Base increases the jack’s footprint, giving you a stable platform.

Real-World Example:
In deep mud or loose soil, the Hi-Lift can sink dangerously. The base keeps the jack upright and reduces risk of collapse.

Hi Lift Off-Road Base

Additional Safety Reminders

  • Never put any part of your body under the vehicle while it’s supported by a Hi-Lift.

  • Always keep your face and torso clear of the handle’s swing path.

  • Practice at home before using it on the trail.


FAQ: Hi-Lift Jack Basics 

Is a Hi-Lift Jack worth carrying on the trail?

Yes, if you know how to use it safely. A Hi-Lift can lift, winch, clamp, and spread, making it extremely versatile. However, it requires training and respect.

How often should I lubricate my Hi-Lift Jack?

Lubricate the climbing pins and mechanism before every use. If you store it outside your Jeep, you may need to maintain it more frequently.

Where is the safest place to mount a Hi-Lift Jack?

Inside your Jeep, away from weather exposure and secured so it cannot move during an accident. Under the rear seat works well in many Wrangler models.

Can I lift directly from my tire?

Yes, with a Lift-Mate. It attaches to the wheel and reduces the amount of height needed to lift the Jeep, making it safer and more efficient.

Do I need a base for my Hi-Lift Jack?

If you wheel in sand, mud, snow, or soft soil, then yes. An Off-Road Base increases stability and prevents the jack from sinking.

Jeep Momma contains Amazon affiliate links. I receive commissions for purchases made through those links, at no cost to you. I recommend products and services because I think they are helpful and useful, not because of the small commissions I make if you decide to buy something.




Off-Road Adventures in Virginia

Pushing Boundaries and Building Connections


Stepping behind the wheel of my Jeep never fails to ignite a sense of excitement and challenge. With each trail conquered, I continue to test my abilities and surprise myself with what I'm capable of. Seeing my fellow Jeepers have unwavering confidence in my skills is heartening, even when I doubt myself.


Jeep Momma on off-road trails at the Cove in Virginia.
My Jeep on the Appalachian Trails


New Upgrades and Unforgettable Experiences


My Jeep, now sporting sleek Lux Lighting Rock Lights, has become more than just a vehicle – it's a gateway to adventure and friendship. Recently, I joined the Off Camber Crawlers for another exhilarating camping and wheeling weekend that pushed me to my limits.


My Jeep at the campsite at night sporting my new Lux Lighting System.
My Jeep with her new Lux Lighting Rock Lights

The Cove: A Level 6 Trail Challenge


Our destination was The Cove in Virginia, boasting challenging trails. I picked the group tackling a Level 6 trail. Understanding Trail Ratings before you hit the trail is key. The three-hour drive to the Appalachian mountains was just the beginning of an unforgettable journey. As I set up my tent at Cove Campground, the tranquil evening set the stage for the adrenaline-packed days ahead.

The Cove, Virginia Watch Here ðŸ‘‰ Level 6 Trail


The group of Jeeps on a trail in the Appalachian Mountains.
Jeeps on the trail

201 Training and Trail Mastery


With the sunrise came the excitement of 201 training. Gathered around camp, we delved into advanced off-roading techniques and trail fixes. Everyone sharing their knowledge and trail tips proved invaluable as we hit the trails, tackling some of the most technical routes I've ever encountered.


Jeepers sitting around at camp


Pushing Limits and Forging Friendships


The trails – Hard Rock Crawlers, Boulder, and others whose names blurred into one continuous challenge – tested our skills and our Jeeps. Having a passenger along for the ride added a new dimension to the experience, providing both companionship and a calming presence.

My new Jeep friend Scott and myself on the trail.



Mud, Winches, and Teamwork


Watching the more experienced "big boys" tackle the mud puddles was both entertaining and educational. I witnessed firsthand the intricacies of winching out of mud and up steep inclines. These moments of challenge brought our group closer together, reinforcing the spirit of camaraderie that defines the off-roading community.


A stuck in the mud Cherokee getting winched out.
Jeeper stuck in the mud


Reflections on the Trail


Every off-road adventure brings new friendships, unforgettable memories, and valuable lessons. As I continue to push my boundaries and grow as a Jeeper, I'm grateful for the supportive community I've found and the incredible experiences my Jeep has made possible.

The trails may be rough, but they lead to some of life's most rewarding moments. Here's to many More Adventures, challenges conquered, and friendships forged in the great outdoors.




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





Wednesday, June 19, 2019

Jeep Rock Light Install

LUX Lighting Systems Magnetic Rock Lights Review

Lighting upgrades can significantly enhance the look and functionality of your Jeep, especially for off-road adventures. Recently, I installed the LUX Lighting Systems Monster Rock Lights—magnetic LEDs designed specifically for 4x4 vehicles—and here's my detailed experience.


MyJeep with the completed install of the Lux Lighting System.
Rock Lux Lights


Why Upgrade to Lux Lighting Rock Lights?

Rock lights provide essential illumination during nighttime off-roading, helping you navigate obstacles and improve safety on the trails. Plus, they add an eye-catching appearance to your Jeep.

  • Visibility: Enhances off-road safety and aesthetics.

  • Easy Installation: Straightforward setup even for DIY beginners.

  • Versatility: Customizable positioning and optional smartphone control.

  • Durability: Built specifically for rugged off-road adventures.

Overall, the LUX Lighting Systems Monster Rock Lights are an impressive upgrade. For more DIY Jeep modifications and reviews, visit my Modifications and Accessories page.




LUX Lighting Systems: Brightness and Ease

The manufacturer of LUX Lighting Systems reached out, asking me to install and review their Monster Rock Lights. While initially hesitant about the installation process, it turned out to be straightforward—even overcoming some minor challenges with the firewall.

Watch my complete YouTube Installation Video.


Key Features of LUX Monster Rock Lights

  • Ultra-Bright LEDs: Claimed as the brightest rock lights on the market.

  • Magnetic Mounts: Allows flexible positioning, easy adjustments, and secure placement.

  • Smartphone RGB Controller: Optional smartphone control with RGB color customization (requires separate app).

  • Durability: Built to withstand tough off-road environments.

My first reaction after turning them on was a genuine "Wow!" These lights are incredibly bright, dramatically improving visibility around my Jeep.



Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Step 1: Measure and Prepare Wires

Run the LED wires from the engine compartment down to underneath your Jeep, carefully measuring how much length you'll need.


Jeep Momma installing her Lux Lighting System.
Jeep Momma Installing the Lux Lights. 


Step 2: Position the Magnetic LEDs

Place each magnetic LED at your desired spots underneath the Jeep frame. Adjustments are simple, thanks to their magnetic attachment.

Secure the wires neatly with zip ties, ensuring they're away from moving parts or heat sources.

Magnetic Lux Lighting under my Jeep.
One of the magnet Lux Lights on the frame of the Jeep.



Step 3: Connect Wires to the Controller

Attach the colored wires to their designated points on the controller box. Mount this box securely on top of the fuse box using heavy-duty Velcro.


Close up picture of the control box for the Lux Lights.
Jeep Momma working on the controller box.


4: Routing the Switch Wire

Run the switch wire carefully across your Jeep toward the driver's side firewall.


Jeep Momma installing the wiring for the Lux Lighting System.
Jeep Momma running wires for the lux lights.



Step 5: Access the Firewall

Remove the interior plastic panel for easier access to the firewall. Use a wire snake to pull your wiring through securely.


Jeep Momma pulling the wiring harness through the firewall for the Lux Lighting System.
Jeep Momma snaking the wires through the firewall.


Step 6: Install Your Switch

Connect the switch to the wires and find a convenient location inside your Jeep, such as near the roll bar or attach it to an existing AUX switch.


Helpful Installation Tips

  • Keep wires clear of heat sources and moving parts.

  • Test your lights thoroughly before finalizing installation.

  • Wait to connect to your battery until the entire wiring and connections are secure.






FAQs About LUX Monster Rock Lights

Q: How durable are the magnetic mounts for off-roading?
A: The magnetic mounts are extremely strong, allowing secure positioning and easy repositioning even during intense off-road conditions.

Q: Do I have to use the smartphone app to control the lights?
A: No, you can control the lights manually with a traditional switch if you prefer. The smartphone RGB controller is an optional upgrade.

Q: Is professional installation required?
A: No, installation can be easily completed by anyone comfortable with basic DIY automotive projects.




This review and installation guide reflects my genuine experience. While the product was provided for review purposes, all opinions are solely mine based on personal testing and real-world usage.

Overall, the LUX Lighting Systems Monster Rock Lights are an impressive upgrade. For more DIY Jeep modifications and reviews, visit my Modifications and Accessories page.




Jeep Easter Eggs on a 2023 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon

My Complete Easter Egg Hunt Guide For years, I've heard Jeep owners talk about Easter Eggs. Some people are obsessed with finding them. ...