Looking Back and Looking Ahead: The Team’s 2024 Recap and 2025 Goals

What a year it’s been! As we wrap up 2024, the Trails Offroad team has been looking back at some of the trails that made this year unforgettable—and we’re already getting excited about what’s ahead in 2025. From breathtaking views to challenging routes, every trail we tackled came with its own special moments and stories to tell.

In this post, we’re sharing our favorite trails from the past year, along with some of the places we’re hoping to explore next. Whether you’re looking for inspiration for your next adventure or just curious about where we’ve been (and where we’re headed), we hope this gives you some ideas for your own off-road plans. Let’s dive in!

Our Favorite Trails of 2024 

When we asked the team about their favorite trails of 2024, the responses were as varied as the landscapes we explored. From challenging rock crawls to scenic, laid-back routes, everyone had their own standout experiences this year. 

In this section, we’re highlighting the trails that left the biggest impressions on us—whether for the unforgettable views, the technical challenges, or just the pure fun of the ride. 

Inman Canyon - S.J. H.

This year I really enjoyed exploring this area. It is a beautiful area during the drier season. But beware, it can get extremely dusty and busy, especially during the summer. Regardless it’s still very much worth a drive. 

And if you are looking for a place to stay the night, there are a few obvious camping spots just off the road as well as a bunch of dispersed camping all along this road. 

I have also really enjoyed exploring the Blackrock Canyon area and the Lake Channel Sand Dunes, both are great trails to explore. 

Bethel Ridge - Thaddeus B.

My favorite trail of 2024 is Bethel Ridge located in the state of Washington. As part of the Washington Cascade Overland Route, this trail seamlessly connects to some other great trails in the state. The trails are easy-moderate and the vistas are breathtaking. 

There are also lots of dispersed camping spots along this trail but if you plan on camping in the summer, make sure to bring some bug spray because the mosquitos are no joke. 

Devils Canyon To Pinal Peak - Todd H. 

The Devil's Canyon Trail is waiting for you just east of Superior, Arizona. This is a long-haul trail over 20 miles through the backcountry that doesn't seem to get a whole lot of visitors.  

From boulder fields, loose rocky climbs, wash crossings, and shelf roads, this one covers many bases. If that doesn't prompt your interest, maybe the scenery will. This trail traverses through the Tonto National Forest, Arizona State Trust Land, and a short crossing through a private ranch. This means, don't forget to have your state trust land permit handy for this one. 

Whatever you do, don't go alone. Take another vehicle with you because this trail is remote and out there. One of the best trails I have done recently.  Enjoy!

Medano Pass - Andrew T.

Medano Pass has been one of my favorite trails of 2024. The dunes have always been one of my favorite places on the planet but I didn’t learn about 4x4 access until years later after getting into the hobby, so it was surreal to go back 20 years later and come in through the mountains.

Now that I know this route and have been through it, it will absolutely become a yearly trip for me. It is, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful trails I have been on. 

Georgia Pass - Trint L.

My favorite trail that I completed this year was Georgia Pass. 

This trail is the least busy of the three main passes over the Continental Divide. It isn’t super hard but be prepared to do some steep and rocky inclines. 

The USFS mitigated this one recently (and it got a new remap). In my opinion it's one of the few times that a bulldozer improved a trail. The charm and challenge is still there, but the illegal bypasses and trail braiding are gone.

Tahuya South Loop - Marie D.

Tahuya is one of my favorite areas in Washington when I need to get out and hit the trails. It’s a great spot because there’s really something for everyone, no matter your experience level.

One trail I always enjoy is the South Loop. It’s a short trail, and while it’s gotten a bit easier over the past year, it’s still a lot of fun. There are plenty of sections that let you test your truck’s flex and get a little off camber. Plus, it’s a good spot to practice some basic skills if you’re new to off-roading.

The area also has plenty of other easy, enjoyable trails, like Trail 55—another one of my go-to favorites in Tahuya.

Bear Den Branch 1C - Dalton A. 

My favorite trail that I explored this year would have to be the Bear Den Branch 1C in South Dakota. 

The trail difficulty isn’t too hard but I would come prepared to air down and have the right modifications to make it over rocky terrain. 

It was a simple, short branch with a small technical section and a great viewpoint for the area.  I had been in this area a dozen times and this was my first time up to this spot. 

Blair Mountain - Brian B.

Blair Mountain is an amazing outdoor experience. I say experience, not trail because this adventure really has it all. Alpine lakes, wide open plateaus and off road sections that will challenge even a seasoned off-roader. 

The trail is technical enough to make sure you are paying attention but not too technical that most vehicles can’t make it. Any sort of muddy or wet weather will make the rock obstacles a little more challenging. The ledges are also super narrow so wheel placement is important especially during the wetter seasons–just keep that in mind. 

Sandstone Canyon - Shawn W.

One of my favorite trails of all time is Sandstone Canyon. 

If you’ve never been on this trail, it’s an absolute must. Just being here makes it feel like you have traveled to a different planet. These rock formations are absolutely mind blowing in person and no photos will do them justice. 

The trail itself isn’t too difficult. I will say you may encounter some fairly rocky terrain, and some tight spaces, just keep that in mind especially if your truck is on the wider end. 

Goals for 2025 

In 2024, we covered an impressive X miles of trails and had the chance to explore some truly incredible landscapes across the country. It’s been a year of adventure, growth, and discovery, but we’re far from finished. Looking ahead to 2025, we have even bigger plans and can’t wait to dive into new trails, scout out remote areas, and tackle exciting challenges. Stay tuned—there’s so much more to come!

If you need some inspiration for where to explore next year, here’s what our team is doing:

“Explore some areas closer to Logan, UT and southeastern Idaho”

“In 2025 I’m looking forward to another cross country move to the Northeast. Peter’s Mill Run is high on my list.”

“In 2025 I want to get back to the Sonoran Desert National Monument. I have done a few scout routes in this area but it is so vast and remote there is plenty more to check out.”

“In 2025, we hope to visit friends and family up near Glacier National Park (Montana) or Taos/Santa Fe (New Mexico) and use those trips as opportunities to explore around and on the way.”

“The area I would like to visit next is the Alpine Loop and other nearby mountain passes in Colorado.”

“Next year, I am hoping to explore more of the area around Blair Mountain.”

“I’m really looking forward to conquering Gold Mountain. It’s a Jeep Badge of Honor Trail with challenging waterfalls and amazing views.”

“Next year, one of my goals is to visit all 3 National Parks in Washington and do some trails around the parks. I’ve only ever been to two of them for hiking and exploring by foot. Now I would love to do some wheeling around there!” 

We wish you and your loved ones a happy new year and can’t wait to see where next year takes everyone!