ABOUT THE AUTHOR
In addition to writing stories, Rick Russell publishes Sidekick off Road maps and produces the off highway adventure video series. the videos feature a variety of trails across the United States. Both the maps and videos can be purchased at off-road accessory stores and on the Internet. For a list of videos and dealers, visit www.sidekickoffroad.com or call (877) 628-7227.
Areas that we drove over in 1993 have turned into off-camber sections and ledges that challenge anything except a rock buggy. In our group, two well-equipped, experienced drivers rolled over on these new obstacles. Fortunately everyone was wearing a seatbelt, and no one was hurt. | 
What used to be the best way to get over the Rocker knocker obstacle is now the only way (there is a bypass, but it's pretty rough). Drive straight up to the double ledge, and when the front tires reach the second ledge, turn left toward the large rock that gave this obstacle its name. Sounds easy ... it's not. | 
At the once-famed Rock Pile obstacle, the rocks are gone. this is where a lot of rocks were piled up in front of a 7-foot ledge to help the vehicle get up without rolling over. A winch point has been installed for those who still wish to go over it. |
But not all is lost, there is a bypass around the Rock Pile obstacle. you may still need to move rocks. | 
Yellow hill is still at the end of Pritchett Canyon. now there is an alternate route from the bottom of the canyon. It climbs up a steep rock face alongside the original route. today's tires find traction easily, and the vehicle climbs to the top. at that point everyone takes a breath and prepares for the long drive back to town. | 
The only route in 1993 from the bottom of the canyon to the mesa and county road above is still in place. however, between the weather and the vehicle traffic, the holes are deeper, and the edge to straddle is narrower. |