Rating 1 trails are the easiest off-road routes and are suitable for any vehicle, including 2WD cars, crossovers, and stock SUVs. These trails are typically well-maintained dirt or gravel roads with minimal elevation change and excellent visibility. Obstacles are rare, traction is consistent, and the trail surface is generally firm and predictable.

These trails are ideal for beginners, families, and anyone new to off-roading who wants to explore responsibly without risk. While weather conditions can always change trail difficulty, Rating 1 trails should be passable with ease under normal conditions and require no special equipment or off-road experience.

Rating 2 trails remain very approachable but introduce light off-road characteristics. Most stock vehicles with AWD or 4WD will have no trouble navigating these trails, and even capable 2WD vehicles may do fine in dry conditions. Expect mild uneven terrain, shallow ruts, or small puddles depending on recent weather.

These trails may include occasional minor obstacles such as small rocks, light mud, or gentle water crossings. Basic driver awareness and careful tire placement are helpful, but advanced skills or modifications are not required. Rating 2 trails are a great step up for drivers looking to build confidence beyond basic dirt roads.

Rating 3 trails introduce noticeably rougher terrain while still being accessible to most stock 4WD or AWD trucks and SUVs. Drivers may encounter moderate ruts, uneven surfaces, loose rock, mud, or shallow water crossings. Traction can vary, especially after rain, and ground clearance starts to matter more.

These trails may require the use of 4WD in some areas, but low range is usually not necessary. Careful driving, momentum management, and basic off-road awareness are important. While still beginner-friendly, Rating 3 trails begin to reward experience and preparation.

Rating 4 trails mark a clear transition into true off-roading. While some stock 4WD vehicles may complete these trails, others may struggle depending on clearance, tires, and conditions. Expect deeper ruts, steeper grades, uneven rock, moderate mud, and more technical sections.

Use of 4WD low may be required in certain areas, especially during climbs or descents. A rear locker can be beneficial, though not always required. These trails are recommended for drivers with some off-road experience and vehicles with modest upgrades such as all-terrain tires or mild lifts.

Rating 5 trails demand increased vehicle capability and driver skill. These trails often include challenging obstacles, such as off-camber sections, rocky climbs, deeper mud, or water crossings with uneven bottoms. Traction loss is more likely, and poor line choice can lead to getting stuck.

4WD low is frequently needed, and rear lockers are strongly recommended, with front lockers offering additional control. While some stock rigs may make it through with careful driving, lightly modified vehicles—including lifts, larger tires, and recovery gear—are better suited. A winch is highly recommended.

Rating 6 trails are consistently difficult and require capable vehicles and confident drivers. Expect multiple technical obstacles, sustained rough terrain, and limited bypass options. These trails can include steep climbs, rock ledges, deep ruts, and mud that demands proper tire selection and traction aids.

Vehicles should be moderately modified, typically featuring larger tires, increased ground clearance, skid plates, and at least one locker. Recovery gear is essential, and drivers should be comfortable assessing obstacles and choosing lines. Rating 6 trails are not recommended for beginners or unprepared vehicles.

Rating 7 trails are designed for experienced off-roaders and well-equipped vehicles. Obstacles are frequent and often unavoidable, requiring careful line selection, precise throttle control, and a solid understanding of vehicle limits. Expect steep climbs, large rocks, deep mud, and challenging off-camber sections.

Heavily modified vehicles are recommended, including lockers (front and rear), larger tires, suspension upgrades, and strong recovery points. Winches are highly recommended, and trail damage or vehicle damage is possible. These trails should only be attempted with proper preparation and group support.

Rating 8 trails push both vehicle and driver to their limits. Obstacles are large, technical, and often require advanced techniques such as rock crawling or controlled winching. Trail conditions may change rapidly due to weather or erosion, increasing difficulty unexpectedly.

Vehicles should be heavily modified, with significant lifts, large off-road tires, lockers, reinforced components, and full recovery setups. Driver experience is critical, and traveling with multiple capable vehicles is strongly advised. Rating 8 trails are not suitable for casual trail rides.

Rating 9 trails are extreme off-road routes intended for highly skilled drivers with purpose-built rigs. These trails often feature massive rock obstacles, severe articulation demands, and high potential for vehicle damage. Progress may be slow, technical, and physically demanding.

Vehicles attempting Rating 9 trails should be fully built, including dual lockers, heavy-duty axles, roll protection, winches, and aggressive tires. Spotters are often required, and self-recovery skills are essential. These trails are not recommended without extensive experience and preparation.

Rating 10 trails represent the highest level of off-road difficulty and are intended for expert drivers only. These trails can include near-vertical climbs, extreme rock crawling, deep mud pits, or hazardous terrain where failure can result in significant vehicle damage or recovery challenges.

Only specialized, heavily modified rigs should attempt these trails. Advanced driving skills, professional-level equipment, and a full understanding of safety and recovery are mandatory. Rating 10 trails should never be attempted alone and are not suitable for casual recreation.