With a 4:1 transfer case and Brian's trail experience, the Rubicon conquered several optional lines on the trail.
The final obstacle is a true 4.5-rated challenge, and only one vehicle in our group attempted it. With some gentle prodding, Brian climbed into his Rubicon and engaged first gear. Running 10 psi in the MT/Rs, the sidewalls deformed against the first ledge and pulled the Jeep up and to the right, lining the vehicle up for the final waterfall. Just the obstacle alone was impressive, but combined with a 15-foot cliff into a pool of cold water on the passenger side increased the intimidation factor considerably. We knew it would be difficult for the Jeep to climb the obstacle unassisted, so we had prepared the winch recovery kit at the top of the waterfall and plugged in the winch controller. The passenger-side tire began to climb the ledge, and slowly, the Jeep crested its lip, and the driver-side tire began to grip on the 3-foot-tall sandstone face. In a moment, the rear passenger tire kicked out a large rock, tilting the Jeep toward the edge and putting the front driver's tire a foot in the air. I asked Brian if it was time to hook up the winch, to which he responded, "Yeah, I think that would be a good idea." The Jeep finished the climb with the assistance of the 9,000-pound T-Max and a big pine tree.
The Pyeatt Draw trail is maintained in partnership with the Forest Service and the Rim Country 4 Wheelers. When visiting the trail, please remove all trash and stay on the route, only exiting at the Jeep trail that crosses at the end of the 3.0 section or the trail exit at the top of the final waterfall. Spectacular trails like Pyeatt Draw only remain open because of the efforts of clubs like Rim Country 4 Wheelers and responsible OHV enthusiasts. Pyeatt Draw really is an "Outstanding Trail" set in a spectacular region of Arizona. When it is 110 degrees F in Phoenix, there is some great adventure up by the Rim just a few hours away.
BFGOODRICH OUTSTANDING TRAILS
Pyeatt Draw was chosen as one of five Outstanding Trails in the country in 2006 by BFGoodrich, Tread Lightly, and the United Four Wheel Drive Association (UFWDA). Through a careful selection process, including terrain type, enthusiast following, and uniqueness, these trails were showcased as the top "Outstanding Trails" for 2006:
Pyeatt Draw - Payson, Arizona
Black Bear Pass - Telluride, Colorado
Hell's Revenge - Moab, Utah
Historic Naches Pass - Naches, Washington
Upper Tellico OHV Area - Nantahala National Forest
Each year, BFGoodrich chooses a new group of outstanding trails. For more information, visit www.bfgoodrichtires.com/outstandingtrails.
This is the Expeditions West Tacoma, outfitted for SEMA and our expedition to the Arctic Ocean. All-new IPF HIDs are mounted along with the new Viking Offroad roller fairlead and synthetic rope with safety thimble. | 
Ben spots Ed through one of the more difficult challenges. Ed's '83 FJ40 is loaded with trail goodies, including OME suspension, ARB Air Lockers, 4.88 gearing, BFG Mud-Terrains, and a brand-new 8274 Warn. | 
Brian was the only driver to attempt the tricky exit, mostly because he was the only one with a winch. Once the passenger-side rear slid off the rock pile, it was winch time. |