What happens at the Level I and II 4WD Training outings?

Outings start on Saturday morning at 9am (local time) and end on Sunday around noon. You will meet your instructors and guides on Saturday morning, get introduced to everyone in the class and go through the course curriculum. Curriculum for Level I includes learning the basics of your vehicle and 4x4s, trail safety and etiquette including Tread lightly! and United Four Wheel Drive Association principles, and driver technique/strategy with some basic recovery techniques. Curriculum for Level II includes mechanical, maintenance, and modification issues followed by navigation basics (map and compass, GPS units, topographical maps) and advanced recovery operations. Finally, you will have the opportunity to test your knowledge on the A4WD test course with a few small rocks, a hill, an off-camber turn, moguls, and some pea gravel. We break for lunch and resume in the afternoon for a guided trail ride through the Badlands Off-Road Park where you can apply the knowledge we taught you that morning. There is an optional group dinner in downtown Attica Saturday evening. Sunday morning is another half day of guided trails.

Why should I sign up for a Level I outing?

People sign up for lots of reasons: to learn about four wheeling and their vehicle, how to drive off-highway, to hone their skills, to learn techniques, job training, to spend time with family and friends, etc.! The skill of the driver can make a tremendous difference on the trail and we can help train you with proven techniques and strategies for going more places and having more fun with your 4x4. It's the intelligent, safe, quick, and fun way to learn!

Why should I sign up for a Level II outing?

The curriculum is completely different between Level I and II. Level I is an introduction to four wheeling and learning driver skills. Level II teaches you additional skills which are invaluable in the backcountry. Level II outings require that you’ve taken Level I and have been out on the trails a few times now. Level II teaches you about important things to check your vehicle for before and after a trail ride, how to not get lost, and how to get yourself (or others) unstuck safely.

What will I learn?

Level I - vehicle and 4x4 basics, trail safety and etiquette including the Tread Lightly! and United Four Wheel Drive Association's philosophies, driver technique. You also gain hands-on experience on the A4WD test course and trails.

Level II – vehicle mechanics, maintenance issues, and modification; navigation techniques using maps, compasses, GPS units, and topographical maps; and advanced recovery operations. You also gain hands-on experience in checking your vehicle, finding waypoints, and getting unstuck, and driving more advanced trails.

Why do you require Level I to sign up for a Level II outing?

There are too many different vehicles, drivers, terrain, and levels of experience. Requiring the completion of Level I assures both us and the clients on a Level II trip that we won’t be covering material already taught in a Level I course. It starts the Level II outing with a certain amount of knowledge and experience already assumed, and we move forward from that.

What does the basic package fee cover?

• half day of A4WD classroom instruction
• personalized coaching through test course trail simulations
• hands-on workshop on preparing for a trail ride
• hands-on workshop on basic recovery
• 2 half days of expertly guided trail rides on A4WD's own exclusive trails
• use of A4WD vehicle flags and two-way radios
• all Badlands Off-Road Park admission fees
• instructional materials
• discount on parts and recovery gear
• discount on future A4WD outings
• LOTS of fun and adventure

What does the deluxe package fee cover?

    Includes all of the above, plus:

• additional guided trail ride, either Saturday night (night run on A4WD trails) or Sunday afternoon (more challenging trails) through Badlands Off-Road Park's existing trail system

• additional technical discussion session about staff vehicles and modifications
• on-site camping for Saturday night
• trip photographs on CD-ROM
• certificate of completion
• A4WD logo sticker
• Badlands Off-Road Park vehicle flag

Are lodging and meals included?

    On-site camping and a gourmet box lunch on Saturday are included in the Deluxe package. Basic packages do not include any food or lodging. Area accommodations (camping/motel/hotel/B&B) are sent out in the confirmation packets approximately 2 weeks before the outing.

What do I need to bring?

    You, your 4x4, and a sense of adventure. Click here for a full gear listing.

May I bring passengers?

    Of course. The number of passengers you bring is only limited by the number of seat belts in your vehicle. The passenger fee is $75 for the entire outing, and is applicable toward the passenger’s registration fee if they sign up as a driver on a future 4WD Training outing as a driver. Keep in mind that you (the driver) will be in a learning and participatory environment and plan accordingly. For example, don't bring children that require care without another responsible adult with you. Also, this is not the place for romantic squabbles, so leave your significant other at home if they enjoy telling you how to drive.

Do I need any special modifications on my vehicle?

    Not really. Most 4x4s will only need to install some front tow hooks. Your vehicle is required to have a working four wheel drive system, seat belts for every passenger, frame mounted (not welded) front and rear tow hooks, and current registration, inspection, license plates, and insurance. Other items that we suggest you have (but are not required) include a CB radio to communicate with others on the trail, a tow strap with looped ends (no hooks minimum 20,000 # capacity), full size spare tire, skid plates for your vehicle's undercarriage, and a cooler for drinks and refreshments (NO alcohol on trail – consuming alcohol while on trails is cause for your removal without refund)

Will I damage my vehicle?

    We have qualified, experienced, and United Four Wheel Drive certified instructors who are familiar with the trail, terrain, and four wheeling who will instruct and guide you. However, there is always the possibility of vehicle damage. Getting your 4x4 dirty and minor damage such as paint scratches and flat tires are an inevitable part of being able to go further and have more fun than your average driver and vehicle.

What if I break down?

    We will get you home. There is a repair shop at the Badlands Off-Road Park and three auto parts store in town. No one will be left on their own at any time. Ever. We will get you off the trail and help you make the necessary arrangements. You will, however, always be responsible (financially and otherwise) for your own repairs, damage, and injuries.

Is it dangerous or strenuous?

    Everything has an element of danger and four wheeling is no exception. We are preparing you to handle your vehicle more effectively in adverse and non-ideal driving conditions and those skills are portable. Your enhanced driver ability will benefit you on the street as well.  Clients have reported significantly improved parallel parking skills as a result of our training!