Trail Rating System

This trail ratings system was modeled after ones used by other TLCA Chapters with some minor adjustments. This trail rating system is only a general guideline. Many other factors influence a vehicle’s ability such as: suspensions, type of tires, and the drivers abilities. Wet weather and snow can significantly change the difficulty of a trail. As always, each driver must assume their own risk.

Most trails in Colorado involve high altitude and steep angles. Your vehicle may need some adjustment or modification to accommodate these conditions.

TRAIL RATINGS on a 1-5 Scale

Difficulty	Recommended Equipment *	Notes
1	Stock 4wd and Some 2wds	Improved dirt/gravel roads
2	Stock 4wd	4wd required occasionally, some mud holes or rocks that would stop other vehicles. Traveled easily in 4wd
3	Stock 4wd w/ Low range.	Novice and experienced alike. Low range required often. Vehicle damage is a possibility. May desire added modifications at times.
3+	4wd w/ Low range, added ground clearance w/ 31" tires	Some spots may require added clearance or traction beyond stock capabilities. Vehicle damage is a possibility. A locker, limited slip, lower gears, or more clearance may be desired at times.
4	4wd w/ Low range, maximum clearance w/ 33" tires	Not for beginners; Potentially dangerous situations; vehicle damage is likely. Low gearing, locker, limited slip, or winch advised.
4+	4wd w/ Low range, 33" tires w/ one locker (2 preferred)	Not for beginners; Potentially dangerous situations; Vehicle damage is very likely. Low gearing, jacks and winches are advised due to large boulders, steep inclines, etc.
5	4wd w/ Low range; two lockers; min 33" tires (35" tires preferred)	Not for beginners; Potentially dangerous situations; Vehicle damage is very likely. Low gearing, jacks and winches indispensable due to large boulders, steep inclines, etc.
X	4wd w/ Low range; two lockers; 35" tires and a winch	Not recommended for anyone; For those that must, bring lots of tools and spare parts. Vehicle damage will occur. (Trailer recommended for trip home.)

Notes:

Recommended equipment for all 4 wheeling excursions should include a tow strap and secure tow points at either end of the vehicle. See Safety Checklist for vehicle and equipment requirements.

Rock sliders and sturdy bumpers can be used to minimize vehicle damage. These are especially recommended for longer wheel base vehicles such as wagons (FJ80s, FJ60s, FJ55s etc).

Vehicles arriving which are grossly out of classification for a given run, i.e., a scheduled run that has a 4 rating, and the vehicle is stock 2 rating will not be allowed on the run. If your vehicle is in this classification, contact the trip leader or CLC’s events coordinator, in advance of the run, and make plans to ride along in a CLC members prepared rig.

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