Southern Trail Junkies Rules and Etiquette

1. Respect the Environment:

•Always stay on designated trails to protect the surrounding environment and avoid damaging vegetation. Deviating from marked paths can harm plant life and contribute to soil erosion.

2. Leave No Trace:

•Carry out all trash, including food wrappers, used parts, and other waste. Practice the “pack it in, pack it out” principle to keep trails clean and safe for everyone.

3. Yield Right of Way:

•Yield to smaller vehicles, hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. Vehicles traveling uphill have the right of way, as maintaining momentum on an incline is crucial for safety.

4. Maintain Safe Speeds:

•Drive at safe and controlled speeds. Slow down near other trail users, campsites, and in areas with limited visibility to minimize dust and noise.

5. Communicate Clearly:

•Use hand signals to indicate the number of vehicles in your group to oncoming traffic. A closed fist signifies the last vehicle in the group. Maintain radio communication to update your group about obstacles and any issues.

6. Keep Safe Distances:

•Maintain a safe distance between vehicles, especially on difficult terrain or in low visibility conditions. This helps prevent accidents and allows adequate reaction time.

7. Never Go Alone:

•Always travel with at least one other vehicle. This ensures help is available in case of mechanical failure, getting stuck, or other emergencies.

8. Be Prepared:

•Equip your vehicle with essential safety gear, including a first aid kit, tow ropes, a jack, a winch, and other recovery tools. Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained before hitting the trails.

9. Park Responsibly:

•Never stop or park in the middle of the trail. Pull over to designated areas or spots where your vehicle won’t obstruct the trail or damage vegetation.

10. Help Fellow Off-Roaders:

•Offer assistance to others in need. Whether someone is stuck or experiencing a breakdown, the off-road community thrives on mutual support and camaraderie.

11. Respect Trail Etiquette:

•Understand and follow trail signs and regulations. They provide crucial information about trail conditions, directions, and rules to ensure everyone’s safety.

12. Avoid Alcohol:

•Do not consume alcohol while driving. Save the drinks for after the ride to ensure everyone’s safety on the trails.

By adhering to these guidelines, we can ensure that Southern Trail Junkies fosters a safe, respectful, and enjoyable environment for all off-road enthusiasts.