Off-roading is a popular summer activity to enjoy with the top down on your jeep and splashing through the mud, but it can be equally as exciting in the winter. Although, with different terrain come extra tips and tricks necessary for a safe and fun experience. Follow these tips for off-roading in the snow, so you don’t have to wait for springtime to hit the trails again.
Vehicle Preparation
Tires
Hitting the trails with your summer tires won’t do you any good in the winter. Selecting the right off-roading tires requires many considerations. But for off-roading in the snow, you’ll want to swap your tires out for snow tires for better traction. You’ll get even more traction if you choose to have your snow tires siped, or the process of cutting tiny slits into the tread.
Heat
Going off-roading in the winter without a working heater is uncomfortable and dangerous. Ensure your heater is working to the best of its ability to keep you and passengers nice and warm. A functional heater is also vital to keeping windows defrosted and doors from freezing shut.
Driving Tips
Once your vehicle is ready to go, it’s time to hit the trails. However, the trails will feel a little different than they do in the summer. These tips for off-roading in the snow will help you stay on the path and avoid winter-related hazards.
- Don’t always drive in 4WD. New winter off-roaders often assume you’ll want to always keep your car in 4WD. Staying in 4WD can become dangerous on specific terrain such as going downhill, where the vehicle’s weight can cause you to lose traction. Switch into 2WD before any downhill terrain.
- Avoid hard braking. Just like driving on winter roads, hard braking and snow do not mix. Heavy braking can result in a loss of traction and cause you to slide.
- Know your car. If this is your first time off-roading in the winter, make sure you know how your vehicle handles before hitting the most challenging terrain. You’ll want to know how your car reacts to certain situations before you risk being in a position outside of your skillset.
Off-roading in the snow is just as fun and exciting as spring and summer excursions, although you’ll want to keep these tips in mind for a winter trip.
