How It Works

Get more out of your vehicle by honing your driving technique, expanding your navigation skills and learning key trail etiquette:

Join a guided trip

to experience a specific region or trail and enjoy the ride with a designated guide supporting you along the way. Trips may include camping on trail or staying in town closer to amenities.

Sign up for a training

to build or expand specific skills with guidance from a trained instructor. Start with a beginner 100 level course, level up to intermediate 200 level courses, then go even further with advanced 300-500 level courses.

Learn how to teach others

by joining our Train the Trainer Program. Courses focus on how to support those who are new to 4WD, teaching various techniques and the principles of adult education.

Check out our calendar of trips and training Interested in private training or a custom event? Reach out for more information

Where we go

Even though you’re (usually) inside a vehicle, four wheeling is an outdoor activity. We visit a variety of locations based on the season to ensure the safety and comfort of our guests. Some of our favorite areas include:

We’ve wheeled in most states in the continental United States, so if you have another location in mind, reach out to discuss a custom event.

Frequently asked questions

Who can participate?

All drivers must be 18 or older with a valid driver’s license and proof of full coverage auto insurance. No underage drivers, please! Passengers may be of any age, unless otherwise restricted by the specific trip. We welcome people of all backgrounds and experience levels to join a trip or training.

If I don’t have my own vehicle, can I rent one from you?

Yes, we can help coordinate a capable vehicle rental based on which trip or training you would like to sign up for. Barlow Adventures has been in the Jeep rental business for many years.

If you're interested in fleet rentals or Rebelle Rally rentals, we can help with that, too.

Reach out if you need to rent a vehicle.

What is the difference between a guided trip and a training?

Guided trips are focused on experiencing a specific region or trail and enjoying the ride with a designated guide supporting you along the way. 

Trainings focus on building or expanding specific skills with guidance from a trained instructor. You may pick up a few tips or tricks while on a guided trip, but if you’re interested in developing your driving technique, a designated training is the best place to learn.

Do I need a lot of four wheeling experience to join a Barlow Adventures trip?

Most trips are open to beginners with limited four wheeling experience. Our professional guides will support you with vehicle prep advice and packing recommendations before the trip, and spotting, driving tips and trail commentary while you’re on trail.

Some trips, like the Rubicon Trail, have specific experience requirements to ensure all participants are ready for the challenge and the group can move through the trail at an enjoyable pace. Each trip will list specific requirements and if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out.

How big are your groups?

We keep our groups small to keep everyone moving at an enjoyable pace and ensure drivers receive the personal attention and support they need. Most groups have 4-6 vehicles, depending on the purpose of the trip.

Where can I go to the bathroom while on a trip or training?

Most of our trips and trainings are held in remote areas where bathroom stops consist of thick patches of trees or shrubs. Some locations will have pit or vault toilets at varying intervals. We recommend all guests carry toilet paper in a plastic bag for bathroom breaks and we ask everyone to pack out their trash, rather than burying it along the trail. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about how to maintain personal hygiene on trail, we all have to stop at some point!

What kind of safety measures do you have in place?

Four wheeling involves inherent risk. Our guides and instructors have extensive field experience, first aid training, and recovery gear to support our guests on trail. If a guide or instructor provides you with specific instructions while on trail, please follow them immediately and speak up if you need any clarification.

You also play an important role in helping keep the group safe while on trail: 

  • All drivers must have a valid driver’s license and full coverage auto insurance for their vehicle.
  • All participants should be in good physical health; Let us know if you have any medical conditions or concerns prior to attending a trip or training.
  • Consuming alcohol is not permitted before or during the driving portion of any trip or training.
  • Personal vehicles must be in good working condition prior to attending a trip or training.
  • Pets and small children cannot attend trips or trainings unless specifically accepted.

Vehicle damage is always a possibility while on trail. Pinstriping (scratches from bushes, trees or rocks) and tire damage can happen on almost any trail at any speed.

Do you have permits for the areas you operate in?

Yes, Barlow Adventures operates on public lands under commercial-use permits, prioritizing responsible land use and Tread Lightly! Principles.