Jeep Blessing
Where it happens: Mesick, Michigan
The basics: It is what its name implies, though rigs of "lesser stature" are also invited to attend and they too are blessed. After the morning service and blessing, this one-day event moves on to include a variety of events including Master Drivers Course, mud pit, teeter-totter, RTI ramp, swap meet, raffle, and kids games. This year was the 7th annual event and it drew more than 700 rigs and more than 1,400 people.
More info: www.cadillacjeepers.com
Sierra Trek
Where it happens: Truckee, California
The basics: This is the California Association of 4WD Club's largest event of the year and it's held in the spectacular Sierra Nevada Mountains. For those wanting extreme adventure, this 41-year-old, two-day event offers runs on upper and lower Fordyce Creek Trail. There is also an intermediate run on the Signal Peak Trail and an easy historical/SUV run. Many meals are included and the scenery is absolutely beautiful.
More info: www.cal4wheel.com
Memorial 4x4 Total Off Road Rally
Where it happens: Dresser, Wisconsin
The basics: For 40 years the folks at the Minnesota Go 4-Wheelers have hosted this incredible event each Memorial Day weekend. Not ones for the same ol' thing year after year, they change the event annually to keep it fresh. This year they offered trail rides, a demo derby, a huge 4x4 playground, a mud pit, mud racing, a rock pile, and of course on-grounds camping.
More info: www.memorial4x4.org
Jeepers Jamboree
Where it happens: The Rubicon Trail
The basics: When it comes to the Rubicon Trail, the mother of all events is the Jeepers Jamboree. Since its inception 56 years ago this event has taken more than 34,795 vehicles and more than 101,440 people over the Rubicon Trail. Yep, you'll see Loon Lake, Devil's Post Pile, Spider and Buck Island Lakes, and Rubicon Springs. Meals are included and they even provide nightly entertainment. If you like civilization with your rugged backcountry this event is for you.
More info: www.jeepersjamboree.com
Off Road Expo
Where it happens: Pomona, California
The basics: Think of the Las Vegas SEMA show without any of the frou-frou and bling and you have the Fall Off Road Expo in Pomona. It's wall-to-wall off-highway stuff and it's paradise for dirt junkies. In addition to a vast number of vendors, there's also freestyle motocross demos and live bands to keep you entertained.
More info: www.offroadexpo.com
Okanagan Rumble on the Rocks Off-Road Showdown
Where it happens: Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada
The basics: This may have only been its first year, but this event impressed members of our staff and it's clear that this event has lots of potential. An Extreme rock race and high-speed trail run were on tap and the action and destruction were incredible. If you're into extreme action, this is one you shouldn't miss. Oh, Canada!
More info: www.4x4club.ca