If you’re a thrill-seeker and an off-road enthusiast, the Winter 4×4 Jamboree in Sand Hollow, Utah, is an event you won’t want to miss. Scheduled to take place from Wednesday, January 15 to Saturday, January 18, 2025, this jamboree promises an unforgettable adventure for you and your family. Held in the picturesque areas around Hurricane and St.
George, Utah, just a couple of hours north of Las Vegas, this event is a must-attend for anyone passionate about high-clearance vehicles and the great outdoors.
The Winter 4×4 Jamboree is more than just a trail run; it’s an immersive experience that combines world-class rock crawling, gentle scenic rides, and breathtaking views of Zion National Park, Pine Valley Mountain, and Sand Hollow Reservoir. Whether you’re driving a Jeep, Toyota, Bronco, or any other 4×4 vehicle, this jamboree offers something for everyone, from novice drivers to seasoned off-road veterans.
Organized by the dedicated volunteers of the non-profit Desert Roads and Trails Society (Desert RATS) and supported by the Utah Public Lands Alliance (UPLA) and the St. George Jeepers, this event is not only about the thrill of off-roading but also about community and conservation. Your participation helps fund essential projects that keep the trails open and accessible.
Exploring the Event’s Highlights
Trail Rides and Difficulty Levels
The Winter 4×4 Jamboree offers an extensive range of trail rides, catering to all skill levels and vehicle capabilities. The trails are rated on a 10-point scale, ensuring participants can choose trails matching their experience and vehicle modifications.
From graded roads that can be easily traveled by most cars (rated 1) to extreme trails suitable only for purpose-built vehicles (rated 10), there is something for everyone. Trails rated 3 to 5 feature loose rocks, dirt, and sand with some slick rock surfaces, requiring 4WD vehicles with good ground clearance and driving skills.
For the more adventurous, trails rated 6 to 10 involve considerable erosion, higher steps, and potentially deeper water, necessitating advanced off-road equipment and excellent driving skills.
Spectacular Scenery and Photography
One of the Winter 4×4 Jamboree’s standout features is the breathtaking scenery surrounding the trails. Participants can enjoy gorgeous views of Zion National Park, Pine Valley Mountain, and Sand Hollow Reservoir.
The trails are carefully selected to provide a mix of scenic rides and challenging rock crawling, making it a photographer’s paradise. Whether you’re capturing the majestic landscapes, the unique rock formations, or the action-packed moments of rock crawling, you’ll have ample opportunities to take stunning photos that will serve as lasting memories of your adventure.
Community and Entertainment
Beyond the trails, the Winter 4×4 Jamboree is a vibrant community event that offers various activities and entertainment for all ages. The event features a spectacular Vendor Show, where you can find the latest off-road gear and accessories. There are also raffles for kids and adults, with prizes including complete sets of off-road tires, recovery gear, and other off-trail accessories.
Additional activities include live music, radio-controlled car races, a bonfire, swimming in a heated pool, and miniature golf, all staged at Stucki Farms, a short drive from the fairgrounds. These events create a festive atmosphere, allowing participants to relax, socialize, and enjoy the company of fellow off-road enthusiasts.
Planning Your Visit
Accommodation and Logistics
When planning your visit to the Winter 4×4 Jamboree, finding the right accommodation is essential. The event is centered around the Washington County Fairgrounds in Hurricane, Utah, which offers convenient access to the various trail locations. For lodging, consider staying at the nearby Gateway Luxury RV Park, just minutes from the fairgrounds. Gateway Luxury RV Park offers top-notch amenities, including full hookups, comfortable lodging options, and spacious sites perfect for unwinding after an adventure.
Additionally, there are numerous motels, RV parks, pay campsites, and vacation rentals in the Hurricane, Washington, and St. George areas. The organizers have arranged with local establishments, including Gateway Luxury RV Park, to offer exclusive discounts to event attendees, which can be found on the event’s Lodging page.
Registration and Fees
Registration for the Winter 4×4 Jamboree is a straightforward process that must be completed online. Participants must create an account on the event’s website before trail registration opens. Once registered, you can select and pay for your trails on a first-come, first-served basis.
The cost is a flat $50 per vehicle per trail daily, with no extra charge for passengers. It’s important to note that no onsite registration will be available, so all registrations must be completed in advance.
Equipment and Preparation Tips
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, properly preparing your vehicle and equipment is essential. All vehicles participating in the event should have basic safety equipment, including seat belts, a fire extinguisher, first aid kits, and essential tools. Additional equipment, such as lockers and oversized tires, may be necessary depending on the trails you plan to tackle.
A CB radio is highly recommended to stay in communication with your group and trail leaders. Check your vehicle’s modifications and capabilities to ensure they align with the trails you select during registration.
Preparing your vehicle for cold weather is also essential given the winter conditions. This includes using the correct lubricants, ensuring hydraulic hoses are conditioned for cold temperatures, and keeping batteries fully charged and warm. Regularly inspect your vehicle’s electrical wiring, attachments, and hoses for any signs of wear or damage.
These steps will help ensure your vehicle is ready for the challenging trails and cold weather conditions.
Staying Safe and Sustainable
Safety Protocols
Ensuring safety is a top priority at the Winter 4×4 Jamboree. Adhering to strict safety protocols is essential to participate in the event. All vehicles must have essential safety gear, including seat belts, a fire extinguisher, first aid kits, and basic tools.
Carrying a CB radio or other communication device is also highly recommended to stay in contact with your group and trail leaders. Before embarking on any trail, ensure your vehicle is in good working condition and you have the necessary skills and experience for the trail’s difficulty level.
Additionally, always travel with a buddy or group, and inform someone outside the group about your itinerary, including where you are going and when you expect to return. This ensures that help can be dispatched quickly if needed.
It is also important to stay hydrated, bring sufficient food, and be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially during winter months.
Environmental Respect and Practices
Environmental sustainability is a core value of the Winter 4×4 Jamboree. The event emphasizes the importance of responsible off-roading practices to minimize the impact on the natural environment. One of the key principles is to stay on designated trails to avoid damaging vegetation and soil.
This not only helps preserve the area’s natural beauty but also reduces the risk of erosion and the spread of invasive species.
Participants are encouraged to follow the TREAD principles promoted by organizations like Tread Lightly!: travel responsibly, respect the rights of others, educate yourself, avoid sensitive areas, and do your part. This includes packing and disposing of all trash properly, avoiding sensitive habitats, and not littering. Adhering to these principles, you help ensure that the trails remain open and accessible for future generations.
Furthermore, the event supports sustainable trail development and restoration efforts. This involves closing and restoring damaged trails, minimizing stream crossings to protect aquatic habitats, and monitoring the impact of off-road activities to implement best management practices. By participating in the Winter 4×4 Jamboree, you contribute to conserving these beautiful landscapes and helping to balance recreational use and environmental protection.
Conclusion
The Winter 4×4 Jamboree in Sand Hollow, Utah, is an event that promises an unforgettable off-road adventure, combining thrilling trails, stunning scenery, and a strong sense of community. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, remember to register in advance, stay with your designated groups, and follow all safety protocols, including CB radios and trail flags.
Respect the environment by staying on designated trails and adhering to TREAD principles. Prepare your vehicle thoroughly, and be aware of the inherent dangers of off-roading. With its world-class rock crawling, spectacular views, and various activities, this event is a must-attend for any off-road enthusiast.
Don’t miss the opportunity to connect with fellow adventurers, support significant conservation efforts, and create lasting memories. Book your stay at Gateway Luxury RV Park, conveniently near the event, and make the most of your Winter 4×4 Jamboree experience. Mark your calendars for the Winter 4×4 Jamboree and prepare for an adventure of a lifetime.
