Trail Ratings
We use our own ratings: Varmit (easy), Predator (medium), Beast (hard), and Monster (extreme). Note that not all trail levels may be offered at all our events.
Varmit (Easy)
Slightly modified vehicles on wide trails. Front and rear tow hooks are necessary.
Mud tires recommended. Winch or locker not required.
Driver: Novice off-road drivers can participate. Must be willing to learn!
Predator (Medium)
Modified vehicles with 31" -34" tires. Locker or winch, roll bar or hard top.
Driver: Some off-road driving experience is desirable.
Beast (Hard)
Modified vehicles with 35"-40" tires, winch, roll cage, front and rear lockers, tools.
Spare axles and other parts recommended.
Driver: You better know how to drive!
Monster (Extreme)
Super modified vehicles, 42" or larger tires, low gear ratios in axle / transmission / transfer case
full roll cage, winch, front and rear lockers, tools, spare parts (and lots of them).
Driver: You better really know how to drive!
Vehicle Requirements:
If you have been 4-wheeling for some time, you'll be experienced enough to know your vehicle's condition and the equipment you should be carrying. Because you will be on the trail with other people who may depend on you or you may depend on them, we list the following requirements for vehicles attending our events:
- 4-wheel-drive vehicle (obviously!)
- Factory hard top, roll bar or roll cage (depending on trail).
- Functioning brakes (check them before you arrive).
- Snatch strap (Loops on ends. NO metal hooks on ends).
- Spare tire, jack, and lug wrench.
- First aid kit.
- Fire Extinguisher, secured near driver.
- Seat belts for all passengers!
- Tow hooks front and rear.
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- Battery bolted down (no bungee cords).
- Legal exhaust system.
- CB radio.
- Flash light.
- Leather gloves.
- Food and water (alcohol is not allowed for anyone).
- Tools and spare parts as appropriate.
- Appropriate clothes, including for overnight.
- All interior items must be tied down or secured.
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Also please read the "Trail Ratings" section above for additional vehicle requirements!
Tech Inspection
When you first arrive at the Dixie Run, your vehicle will go through tech inspection. The emphasis is on SAFETY! We don't want anyone to get hurt and we'd prefer it if your vehicle doesn't get damaged (though we cannot make any guarantees). We will check basic technical items on all vehicles and then compare your vehicle to our Trail Ratings to determine what trails you can drive during the event. To be fair to all participants and keep down the waiting times, we cannot allow under-equipped or under-modified vehicles to drive on harder trails.
Parking and Driving Laws
Do not park your vehicles on the pavement near the campground or in any other unauthorized areas. Typically, it is okay to park on the side of the road, but vehicles must be completely off the pavement. The owner of any vehicle parked on the pavement is responsible if hit by another vehicle.
Speed limits must be observed and vehicles must remain in their own lane on the roads!
PLEASE SLOW DOWN AND DRIVE SAFELY!!!
Trail Ride Rules
1. These rules shall apply to all participants on Southern 4WD Association trail rides: drivers and passengers, including members, family, friends, guests and visitors. Please behave as in a family environment.
2. No alcohol drinking by anyone. Alcoholic beverages shall not be brought on the trail ride. Any drug use is also forbidden.
3. Stay on marked trails open for jeep-type vehicles only. Never ride off the trail, climb the trail bank, or drive on closed trails. Stay out of rivers and creeks. Observe Tread Lightly rules!
4. When winching, use of a tree saver strap is mandatory. Never loop a bare winch cable around a tree because it damages or kills the tree. Put a blanket, jacket or other object over the unwound cable to absorb the tension if the cable breaks. Carry a winch kit, including tree strap, snatch block and clevis. Wear leather gloves when handling winch cable.
5. No littering. Members are encouraged to pick up cans, bottles and refuse left by other people and carry it out for proper disposal.
6. Maintain vehicles in a safe operational condition, including license plate and state tag where required, brakes, seat belts for every occupant, fire extinguisher, first aid kit, CB radio, proper lights, proper vehicle height, muffler and/or spark arrestor, roll bar/cage, spare tire, jack, flashlight, shovel, tree saver strap, snatch block and tools. Secure all loose objects in your vehicle before moving!
7. Participants must have liability insurance and other insurance required by home state. Medical insurance is recommended. Driver must have a valid driver’s license.
8. Always keep vehicle behind you in sight. Be sure he doesn’t miss any turn you made. Do not tailgate the vehicle in front of you. Rollback or reverse maneuvering is always likely in mountainous terrain.
9. Assist disabled vehicles whether they are a member of SFWDA or not. Offer to help bring disabled vehicle out of forest. Help others, as you would have them help you.
10. Each member is asked to enforce these rules within his club and group of friends. The trail boss or leader cannot be everywhere, so it is the responsibility of all members to uphold the good name of the club and association. If someone you do not know is breaking these rules, politely ask them to stop and give them a copy of these rules. If they continue, record their license plate number and report them to the trail boss or appropriate law enforcement.
