Even though that's not one of the more gnarly trails, I would still take two vehicles. I went in with one in the mid '80's and tore apart my drive shaft and snapped my steering arm. Took 3.5 days to get the parts into the trail and had to drive out at midnight to get back to work. Took 2 vehicles the next time, and bent the tie rod on one. Then later did that whole road on a mountain bike with an overnight camp out (bad idea because of all the deep sand and high summer temperatures). Absolutely love that place, and now I want to go back there. Very nice video of one of the great trails/roads in the world.
Thanks for the comment! Man, those sound like some intense (and memorable) trips! I totally agree, two vehicles is always a better idea! Thankfully we had no issues on this occasion.
Love this trail. Have done it more times than I can count and never get tired of it. First time was way back in 1979 in a Chevy Luv pickup. Most folks on here won't have any idea of what that is. The Taco would have made it okay. The last time I did it I followed a group in a Taco who were dong just fine. Great videography, editing and music. Loved the mix of the up-close technical parts and scenery.
Thanks for sharing Bruce! So cool to hear about some of your adventures - that old Chevy must have been fun to drive on this trail. Thanks for watching.
1978 was the year I discovered Elephant Hill and the next 25 years of vacation and just calling off sick at my job I averaged 3 weeks every year. I lived 5 hours away in Salt Lake. I was blessed to be able to see a lot of the Colorado Plateau. The first few years our group wouldn't see another camp or hiker for 2 or 3 days and not a bicycle to be seen. Very sad to see it being loved to death. In those 25 years I had just 1 vehicle a 76 CJ7 stock. Over the course of years I added power steering, 4 speed trans (T-18) and after 165,000 miles on my 256 6 cylinder to a small block chevy. After the bicycles I spent most of my time at Bears Ears. Watching the video gave me a rush. EARTH FIRST!
Great video of a trail that most of us can do. Its fun to watch the big cats tackle the crazy obstacles but it is for me no help on planning a trip to MOAB. I will definitely be watching more of your videos.
Love the video, adding this one to my list of trails this August. After doing the squeeze at Pinyon Mountain, I laughed at the devil’s pocket when you went through it 😂
I had the pleasure of enjoying the last few miles of this trail/road when i was hiking in canyonlands. Made a wing turn hiking ended up walking for two hours of the trail and these guys came up and offered me a ride. I.was like hell yeah! What a rush. Although i must admit i was white knuckled for a bit coming up a dropoff section. Great video, brings back memories.
So the best thing about Canyonlands and or the trails around Moab is almost magical they are so beautiful, I've spent many years going to those places including this Elephant hill trail, very fun, we did thus trail the 1st time in an 85 3/4 Chevy truck with 8ft bed, not a scuff on the body, imagine how close that is to the walls on the canyon part, the tires rubbed on both sides and both mirrors were pulled in, my pint is the Rangers were probably being a bit conservative on the vehicles that can make this trail.
So cool to hear about your adventures here. I agree, we definitely played it safe that day - I think the Tacoma would have done just fine. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for posting. That's one trail I haven't done yet. We did Hell's Revenge, Fins & Things, and Top of the World last time out. I don't own a Jeep yet, but I always rent from Twisted Jeep. They run Milestar tires. With the Rubicon lockers and these tires, I had zero issues on Top of the World climbing the ledges in a JKU. Can't wait to get back out there next spring (2022).
That’s awesome! Top of the world is such a great trail. I’ll have to keep twisted jeep in mind if I’m ever in Moab without mine, sounds like some well built rigs! Thanks for the comment 👊🏼
One of my favorite trails as well. The section where you have to backup and down the hill adds to the fun. The only traction issue I had was at the same spot in your video.
@@4XTRAIL brake pads.. you need to swap them out for a 5 sp.. you slide down a hill....you die...4.88 5 sp. granny first. .. i have a s/duty. 4.2tdi. brazilian,in australia. 4.11 gears,1356 transfer,35,s. zf 5sp,, i drive down all hills. even 70 degree...auto,s kill. my bronco is auto,4.11, 35,s. i turn the idle down to nothing. but still have to accelarate & brake,same time,down hill,its called brake modulation.. try it.. keeps the converter,,converting... ..diesel,manual,2 diffs. gospel..
@@phantomwalker8251 Not sure I’m following you here…I’ve upgraded pads and have no issues in 4Lo w/4:88s. I’ve done Black Bear pass twice, etc. Appreciate the concern! Brakes are certainly important, especially with larger tires. Planning for a complete caliper/rotor upgrade soon!
I have driven that route three times and backpacked it once, all terminating at the Confluence. I would do it again tomorrow with pleasure. It's just too fun. Just the right amount of each aspect of wheeling. The only thing missing is a grove of aspen trees, and that's another trail. Thanx for sharing, great video.
I was disappointed you didn't show the confluence. Such a great view. You did a great job showing the beauty of the area. Did you stop at newspaper rock? Thanks for sharing.
@@4XTRAIL We hit a few. Poison Spider, Golden Spike and Kanes Creek were my faves. Though Hells Revenge is always a great trail for the slick rock aspect.
I need to hit Kane’s Creek next time out! Haven’t run that one. Gold Bar Rim / Golden Spike was something else 😅 made for a full day when we combined them w/Poison Spider. Now I’m really missing Moab!
@@4XTRAIL Yep we ran em all together. Kanes Creek is cool as you spend alot of the time in water, creeks and canopy of brush and trees. Hamburger Hill is the tricky spot, but theres a winch anchor to help make it over. Youll love it, Im sure. 👍
Just found your channel because of this video and love it. Actually doing my first trip out to moab in April 2021 and this "Road" not trail....lol has definitely been added. thanks for the great video.
Next week will be my first time to Moab too! This one is now a top priority!! Any other trails similar to this among your favorites that won’t Likely tear up the jeep?
@@chrisyoung9070 that’s awesome man! Check out Shafer Trail and White Rim Trail both in the Canyonlands area. Up in central Moab there are so many great trails...for easy and iconic check out Fins N Things and Hells Revenge. Have a great time!
Thanks for sharing your adventure and refreshing my memories of Elephant Hill. We have run it 3 times in the past 12 yrs (but never in the rain) and enjoy it just as much every time. We hope to do it again soon in our JL but havent had the chance to get back to Moab the past 2 years. We love the Moab area and all the trails have been amazing. Poison Spider, Top of the World, Seven Mile Rim, etc always are beautiful and never boring..
Hey Mike, thank you for the comment! I agree, such a beautiful part of the country. I haven’t run Seven Mile Rim - will have to add that to the list! Take care 🤙🏼
Any issues with departure angle? From what I remember there weren’t many ledges you have to drive off of so I’m guessing not. Sounds like a great way to spend Thanksgiving weekend! Thanks for the comment!
@@4XTRAIL No issues. My lift + 37's prevent most issues. My rear receiver shackle takes the brunt of any rear-end impacts. Toughest part was "the parking lot", because on the return, two folks chickened out and parked there and you have to turn around to make the last descent.. that made it quite interesting to have 1x Colorado and 1x Jeep just sitting there.. I think the wife and I (she 2019 JLU, me 2020 JT) will likely hit this again mid-to-late March.. Its good being a local Utahn..:)
@@UTBruteForce That’s good to know, I bet my buddy could have taken his Taco after all. Next time (hopefully)! And definitely jealous of your home state! What a beautiful part of the country. Also - sounds like a great JT build you have. All the best! 🤙🏼
All I can say is WOW , WOW AND WOW! I'm headed to Moab from Ontario , Canada in April if the boarders keep up the way they are . I have wanted to go to Moab for a very long time ! This video is stunning bro .... I hope to get some great video of this trip ..
In 1980 I took my girlfriend camping in devil’s kitchen 1972 chevy C10 swb (2nd)!!! Started snowing on Christmas Eve We had to do the backside of elephant hill in a 2x in snow at dusk! I’m not lying!
My favorite trip... Instead of continuing around to silver staircase go towards the park exit. Stop and hike joint trail. Then exit and camp just outside the park. Continue home through bobbies hole and check out the ruins along the way.
Thanks for sharing. Have you ever driven in the Mill Canyon area? This looks a lot like it. Will add to the list. I hope you have done Chicken Corners and Long Canyon.
Sounds like a great trip! Yeah, Ouray/Telluride and Moab in the same trip is the way to go for out of state folks like us. They are so close together by highway or take the Rimrocker from Montrose to Moab and do the whole thing on dirt!
Great job - thoroughly enjoyed the whole video - Wondering about the trail rating - rated "Difficult" but looks like stock JL could navigate with little issues
Thanks for the comment, Charlie! I think you may drag here and there with a stock height JL. Wether you would high center and get stuck is hard to say but there are a few sections where I would recommend having a small lift and 35s. That being said, if it’s a Rubicon and you’ve got a winch or another vehicle with you to assist and have good tire placement, you may be fine. Would love to hear if you give it a try! You can also check out the trail reviews on www.trailsoffroad.com to see what types of vehicles others have taken on the trail.
I found that odd as well. I’m guessing it’s for erosion? They actually made it more difficult because the rain made them more slick than the slick rock. Lol
Amazing scenery. Also, because of all of your older videos I knew exactly what you were doing just before you hit the trail! I’m pretty much an expert overlander at this point. 😂
I know im randomly asking but does any of you know a tool to get back into an Instagram account?? I was dumb forgot my password. I would appreciate any tips you can offer me.
@Zaire Cameron i really appreciate your reply. I found the site on google and im trying it out now. Takes a while so I will reply here later when my account password hopefully is recovered.
I’m running a different tire/wheel setup now than in this video but my Jeep is roughly 76” wide which is about the width of devils pocket. I could hear my tire sidewalls squeaking on the stone walls.
Fun video. It's cool you were able to spend the day with dad and son. Think we could do this in our Grand Cherokee? We did Fins N Things and Hells Revenge with it, is it harder than those you think?
Hey thanks for the comment! Elephant Hill Road/Trail is a number or two higher on the rating scale than Fins n Things with taller ledges and obstacles. Clearance will be your main issue. Not sure how much lift you’re running and what size tire but I’d say a few inches of lift and at least 35s to make it through Elephant Hill. Really fun and beautiful trail but very costly to get recovered from so make sure you have a winch or another vehicle with you!
@@4XTRAIL I had a feeling it was a little harder. I have 2 inches, which is about max for the Grand Cherokee unfortunately, and almost 32" tires. I agree that clearance would be an issue. We are thinking about the white rim trail and then Rimrocker to Colorado so it will be a great time regardless. Just thinking of something else we may be able to do while there. Thanks for the info. I have a feeling we will be running solo so definitely don't want to take any chances.
Nicely done video! Some of the better off-road videography I have seen lately. What are you using for editing software for your video? Appears you are using at least one Go-Pro?
Appreciate the comment Joe! Back when I shot this particular video I was using almost exclusively my iPhone 11 - I now primarily use a GoPro Hero9. For editing I use iMovie on a MacBook Pro M1. Currently looking for a decent DSLR to use for static 4K video and plan to continue using the GoPro for anything dynamic.
Want a great video. Really enjoyed. I’m headed out there in a couple months. Do you have lockers? Do you need lockers? I’ll be in a ‘17 JK. 3” lift on 35’s. Would appreciate any advice/hints. By the way will be there for three weeks. Gonna earn every badge the girl can muster.
Hey John, thanks for the comment! I don’t have lockers and you shouldn’t need them for Elephant Hill. I have a helical diff in the rear which does act as a locker of sorts and it definitely helps - but with the lift and tires you have you should be fine. Obviously disconnecting your sway bar and airing down are a must! You’ll have such a blast out there. Three weeks is a terrific amount of time too. If you get worn out in Moab I highly recommend Ouray, Silverton and Telluride areas in southwestern CO. The Rimrocker Trail connects Moab to Montrose CO and takes a couple of days to complete. Fun way to get between the two states if you like remote primitive camping. Would love to hear how the trip goes!
Thanks Dennis - just took a rough measurement and came up with 76" wide from outside of tire to outside of tire. The narrow squeeze section of Elephant Hill was definitely close to the same width as my Jeep!
Haha that’s observant and a good question! There was a lot of sand and mud flung onto the Jeep so the “clean stripe” is from me dumping my water bottle on the outside my window and side view mirror to try and see out. I ended up just rolling my window down LOL
@@4XTRAIL Thank you for the reply. Maybe we'll meet out on the trails someday. If you see some old guy in a CJ5 that looks like he doesn't know what he's doing.....that'd be me.
No - while portions of the trail could be done in a stock sport Wrangler, other sections would be very difficult or impossible. I would recommend a minimum of 2.5” lift and 33s + a winch and full recovery gear or a second vehicle. Tow out fees start around $2k so you want to err on the safe side. For reference I’m running 3.5” lift and 37s in this video. Hope that helps!
That’s a tough one - maybe check out trailsoffroad.com and read some reviews of others who have done the trail. Here are my thoughts: I think chances are you will make it fine - especially if it’s a Rubi (lockers). You will get a few bumps and scrapes along the way - mainly undercarriage. Make sure you have a winch or a second vehicle to help if you get hung up since the tow fee is very high. Good driver + spotter definitely makes a huge difference.
I’ve ridden ATVs quite a bit in the past and generally the reasoning behind certain trails being off-limits was to preserve the terrain. I think it’s just a lot easier for ATVs/UTVs to power slide, rooster tail and generally drive more recklessly than a road vehicle would. Not sure if that’s the reasoning for Elephant Hill or not?? Also maybe to keep the crowds down. There is a daily limit of how many vehicles can run this trail.
Good question. We did a little exploring down an offshoot from the main trail but otherwise stayed on the primary loop which is well marked and easy to follow. There’s definitely some optional routes that would be fun to explore if you have more time.
@@4XTRAIL I did it for the first time as a very inexperienced trail driver with a TJ on 31's and a 3" lift. I did have lockers though and I used them. Last October I saw a stock Nissan Xterra at the Joint Trail head parking area so it made it though SOB hill. It had no body damage. I was surprised. Believe it or not there is a youtube video of some guys in a stock VW Touareg! Great video. It is my favorite trail too. I hope to be back there this October.
Trailsoffroad.com is a great resource for this. The only one I have run that requires an actual trail permit is Elephant Hill and I was able to acquire one through the Canyonlands National Park website! Hope that helps.
@@4XTRAIL greetings from the Great Nortwest! 5th generation North Idaho. Outstanding Video. I used to live in Durango, and hit Moab quite a few times. I had to get back home. Nothing like the Nortwest.
It’s worth all the highway miles to get out there. Some beautiful scenery and amazing trails to explore! I know some folks fly out and rent built Jeeps instead of driving their own. That’s not my preferred way but it definitely saves some extra time on the road.
@@toddt14 Same! 👊🏼 Moonlight Racing in Sullivan has some decent trails. I’ve heard Pruitt Mtn near Farmington is good but haven’t been yet. Have you tried either of those?
@@4XTRAIL yes, i've been to moonlight but didn't really care for it for whatever reason. i like smorr down in seymour, mo. Much bigger place and wide variety of trails.
@@toddt14 Yeah, I’ve only been to smorr once and wasn’t as impressed as I hoped I’d be. It’s a subjective thing! It’s also tough finding “good” Midwest spots once you’ve been out west LOL. I’m hoping to hit up Arkansas and Tennessee in the near future. I hear there’s some nice trails down that way.
Dude NICE! Mine has been an evolution but currently on 3.5 JKS coils w/Teraflex 9550 shocks and Alpine IR mid arms. If you’re planning to do lift/tires you may find this video helpful: ruclips.net/video/HOn01NJ85C8/видео.html also check out TrailRecon’s channel if you haven’t already! He drives a diesel Rubi as well!
Great videos man! I’m hoping to get out to Moab in the next few years. It’s a long haul from Michigan. I was wondering how you chose camping spots every night? Can you just camp anywhere?
Thanks! It is a haul but you will love it. As for camping - in Moab there are mostly designated camp sites but there are enough of them that you can usually find one the day of. I’d definitely recommend hitting up southwestern CO while you’re out there too! Camping in the Ouray/Telluride area is more dispersed so lots of options. One of my favorite trails to camp off of is Poughkeepsie Gulch near the Engineer Pass intersection. Also check out Porphyry Gulch. I like having a general plan of where we’re staying each night but also leave room for spontaneity. So much beauty out in CO/UT!
@@4XTRAIL right on. Thanks for the info. Will probably do two separate trips unless my wife can get two weeks off work. The Colorado trails look much milder and more picturesque so we’ll probably do that one first.
@@TrailExpedition Two weeks would be ideal but I’ve typically done both in about 10 days. This last trip we spent around 3 days in Ouray, a couple of days on the Rimrocker Trail over to Moab and a couple of days in Moab itself. When you count a days travel there and back it ends up being about a 10 day trip. The more time the better obviously but even a week out there will be totally worth it! trailsoffroad.com is a great resource for scoping out trails. Take care!
@@4XTRAIL yeah more of a two day trip there and back from Michigan as it’s over twenty hours each way. I’ll make the trip soon hopefully! Your Rimrocker trail video was great as well. I watched them all.
Yep, no lockers here 🤙🏼 You do have to make an online reservation as there are only a handful of vehicles allowed in per day. The reservation is free but there is a cost to enter the Canyonlands National Park...maybe $20? I can’t recall exactly. Totally worth it!
Good question! There’s actually two schools of thought on this: 1. being the Rubi is better equipped out of the box for moderate trail use than a sport or Sahara (this is true!) 2. being that if you plan to upgrade to larger tires (37 +) and do more extreme trails regularly you’ll need to upgrade everything anyway - and in that case - the Rubicon is a waste because you pay more for a few added components that will need to be replaced regardless. For me, I didn’t actually know much about Jeeps when I first bought mine - if I had known what I know now I would have gotten a Rubicon for the stronger front axle alone. Hope that helps clarify a little!
@@4XTRAIL it does, thanks for the friendly reply. I think think the front locker alone, would have been enough a reason. I guess most people rarely use them anyway, though.
@@Frissdas1207 A front locker is great for sure. I’ve heard mixed reviews on the stock e-locker. I think for most wheeling it would hold up fine! Thanks for the comments!
It was, yes. Reserved it online through the Canyonlands website. As I recall, you have to reserve a day early for the day pass and a couple of days early for an overnight pass.
Haha yeah, I remember passing a crossover on Ophir pass and thinking “I wonder why this is a badge of honor trail?” I’ve done quite a few badge of honor trails since this video and some are harder than others but most of the trails I’ve done (including the most challenging ones) aren’t badge of honor trails.
Come on now!!! This trail is absolutely stunning. The landscape is constantly changing and the rocks formations look UNREAL!
Very Star Wars -esque!
Rock at 1341 looks like a clay tablet with script on it lol
Even though that's not one of the more gnarly trails, I would still take two vehicles. I went in with one in the mid '80's and tore apart my drive shaft and snapped my steering arm. Took 3.5 days to get the parts into the trail and had to drive out at midnight to get back to work. Took 2 vehicles the next time, and bent the tie rod on one. Then later did that whole road on a mountain bike with an overnight camp out (bad idea because of all the deep sand and high summer temperatures). Absolutely love that place, and now I want to go back there. Very nice video of one of the great trails/roads in the world.
Thanks for the comment! Man, those sound like some intense (and memorable) trips! I totally agree, two vehicles is always a better idea! Thankfully we had no issues on this occasion.
One of my favorite trails as well. Excellent videography.
Right on! Thanks for the comment 👊🏼
Love this trail. Have done it more times than I can count and never get tired of it. First time was way back in 1979 in a Chevy Luv pickup. Most folks on here won't have any idea of what that is. The Taco would have made it okay. The last time I did it I followed a group in a Taco who were dong just fine. Great videography, editing and music. Loved the mix of the up-close technical parts and scenery.
Thanks for sharing Bruce! So cool to hear about some of your adventures - that old Chevy must have been fun to drive on this trail. Thanks for watching.
1978 was the year I discovered Elephant Hill and the next 25 years of vacation and just calling off sick at my job I averaged 3 weeks every year. I lived 5 hours away in Salt Lake. I was blessed to be able to see a lot of the Colorado Plateau. The first few years our group wouldn't see another camp or hiker for 2 or 3 days and not a bicycle to be seen. Very sad to see it being loved to death. In those 25 years I had just 1 vehicle a 76 CJ7 stock. Over the course of years I added power steering, 4 speed trans (T-18) and after 165,000 miles on my 256 6 cylinder to a small block chevy. After the bicycles I spent most of my time at Bears Ears. Watching the video gave me a rush. EARTH FIRST!
Great story man, thanks for sharing!
Loved it! Thank You.
Appreciate it! Thanks for watching!
Great video of a trail that most of us can do. Its fun to watch the big cats tackle the crazy obstacles but it is for me no help on planning a trip to MOAB. I will definitely be watching more of your videos.
Right on, thank you!
Elephant Hill is one of our favorites too!
🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼
Very nice video. Such beautiful scenery, thank you.
Thanks for the comment John! Glad you enjoyed.
Beautiful video! I drove my 1982 Pathfinder on Elephant Hill. By far one of the best trails!
Love it! Thanks for the comment.
Love the video, adding this one to my list of trails this August. After doing the squeeze at Pinyon Mountain, I laughed at the devil’s pocket when you went through it 😂
I had the pleasure of enjoying the last few miles of this trail/road when i was hiking in canyonlands. Made a wing turn hiking ended up walking for two hours of the trail and these guys came up and offered me a ride. I.was like hell yeah! What a rush. Although i must admit i was white knuckled for a bit coming up a dropoff section. Great video, brings back memories.
That’s awesome Tim! Thanks for sharing. Always cool to hear personal stories from this trail.
So the best thing about Canyonlands and or the trails around Moab is almost magical they are so beautiful, I've spent many years going to those places including this Elephant hill trail, very fun, we did thus trail the 1st time in an 85 3/4 Chevy truck with 8ft bed, not a scuff on the body, imagine how close that is to the walls on the canyon part, the tires rubbed on both sides and both mirrors were pulled in, my pint is the Rangers were probably being a bit conservative on the vehicles that can make this trail.
So cool to hear about your adventures here. I agree, we definitely played it safe that day - I think the Tacoma would have done just fine. Thanks for sharing!
Great videography
Appreciate the comment! Thanks for watching
Thanks for posting. That's one trail I haven't done yet. We did Hell's Revenge, Fins & Things, and Top of the World last time out. I don't own a Jeep yet, but I always rent from Twisted Jeep. They run Milestar tires. With the Rubicon lockers and these tires, I had zero issues on Top of the World climbing the ledges in a JKU. Can't wait to get back out there next spring (2022).
That’s awesome! Top of the world is such a great trail. I’ll have to keep twisted jeep in mind if I’m ever in Moab without mine, sounds like some well built rigs! Thanks for the comment 👊🏼
Awesome video! That trail is a dream and the rain made nice climate. Great job. Jeep4life
Thanks! Appreciate the comment 👊🏼
One of my favorite trails as well. The section where you have to backup and down the hill adds to the fun. The only traction issue I had was at the same spot in your video.
It definitely does!
@@4XTRAIL brake pads.. you need to swap them out for a 5 sp.. you slide down a hill....you die...4.88 5 sp. granny first. .. i have a s/duty. 4.2tdi. brazilian,in australia. 4.11 gears,1356 transfer,35,s. zf 5sp,, i drive down all hills. even 70 degree...auto,s kill. my bronco is auto,4.11, 35,s. i turn the idle down to nothing. but still have to accelarate & brake,same time,down hill,its called brake modulation.. try it.. keeps the converter,,converting... ..diesel,manual,2 diffs. gospel..
@@phantomwalker8251 Not sure I’m following you here…I’ve upgraded pads and have no issues in 4Lo w/4:88s. I’ve done Black Bear pass twice, etc. Appreciate the concern! Brakes are certainly important, especially with larger tires. Planning for a complete caliper/rotor upgrade soon!
Cool Beans!
Yeah!
I have driven that route three times and backpacked it once, all terminating at the Confluence. I would do it again tomorrow with pleasure. It's just too fun. Just the right amount of each aspect of wheeling. The only thing missing is a grove of aspen trees, and that's another trail. Thanx for sharing, great video.
That’s awesome, thanks for the comment! 👊🏼💯
I was disappointed you didn't show the confluence. Such a great view. You did a great job showing the beauty of the area. Did you stop at newspaper rock? Thanks for sharing.
Yep that is magic - looks like a good one to take the kids too 🤙
Definitely! Would love to go back with mine.
Great video!
I absolutely love my Patagonias on my 2016 Power Wagon. Very rugged and grippy. Not to forget, also, so quiet too.
Right on! 👊🏼💥
One of the best Elephant Hill videos on the RUclipss.
Thank you for the kind words Joel! Glad you enjoyed it 👊🏼👏🏼
Just got back from Moab and another UT Jeep trip and wheeling with friends.... Such a captivating place. Always in awe when there. Great vid!
Thanks for the comment! I agree, can’t wait to go back. What was your favorite trail this trip?
@@4XTRAIL We hit a few. Poison Spider, Golden Spike and Kanes Creek were my faves. Though Hells Revenge is always a great trail for the slick rock aspect.
I need to hit Kane’s Creek next time out! Haven’t run that one. Gold Bar Rim / Golden Spike was something else 😅 made for a full day when we combined them w/Poison Spider. Now I’m really missing Moab!
@@4XTRAIL Yep we ran em all together. Kanes Creek is cool as you spend alot of the time in water, creeks and canopy of brush and trees. Hamburger Hill is the tricky spot, but theres a winch anchor to help make it over. Youll love it, Im sure. 👍
I wonder what is more fun... driving it or filming it. I am going that way and will tackle it in May and this trail is truly special for sure.
Filming definitely forced us to slow down and soak it in a bit more! Thanks for the comment and safe travels! 👊🏼💥
Yes, I am going.
Bucket list.
For sure!
Just found your channel because of this video and love it. Actually doing my first trip out to moab in April 2021 and this "Road" not trail....lol has definitely been added. thanks for the great video.
That’s awesome! Thanks for the comment and enjoy the trip - you will love it!
Next week will be my first time to Moab too!
This one is now a top priority!! Any other trails similar to this among your favorites that won’t Likely tear up the jeep?
@@chrisyoung9070 that’s awesome man! Check out Shafer Trail and White Rim Trail both in the Canyonlands area. Up in central Moab there are so many great trails...for easy and iconic check out Fins N Things and Hells Revenge. Have a great time!
Thanks for sharing your adventure and refreshing my memories of Elephant Hill. We have run it 3 times in the past 12 yrs (but never in the rain) and enjoy it just as much every time. We hope to do it again soon in our JL but havent had the chance to get back to Moab the past 2 years. We love the Moab area and all the trails have been amazing. Poison Spider, Top of the World, Seven Mile Rim, etc always are beautiful and never boring..
Hey Mike, thank you for the comment! I agree, such a beautiful part of the country. I haven’t run Seven Mile Rim - will have to add that to the list! Take care 🤙🏼
Ran this in my Gladiator over Thanksgiving weekend. Longer wheel base made some of those turns interesting. Great vid..thx for sharing.
Any issues with departure angle? From what I remember there weren’t many ledges you have to drive off of so I’m guessing not. Sounds like a great way to spend Thanksgiving weekend! Thanks for the comment!
@@4XTRAIL No issues. My lift + 37's prevent most issues. My rear receiver shackle takes the brunt of any rear-end impacts. Toughest part was "the parking lot", because on the return, two folks chickened out and parked there and you have to turn around to make the last descent.. that made it quite interesting to have 1x Colorado and 1x Jeep just sitting there.. I think the wife and I (she 2019 JLU, me 2020 JT) will likely hit this again mid-to-late March.. Its good being a local Utahn..:)
@@UTBruteForce That’s good to know, I bet my buddy could have taken his Taco after all. Next time (hopefully)! And definitely jealous of your home state! What a beautiful part of the country. Also - sounds like a great JT build you have. All the best! 🤙🏼
All I can say is WOW , WOW AND WOW! I'm headed to Moab from Ontario , Canada in April if the boarders keep up the way they are . I have wanted to go to Moab for a very long time ! This video is stunning bro .... I hope to get some great video of this trip ..
Appreciate the comment! Totally, you will love Moab. You’ll see some beautiful country on your way down as well. Sounds like a great trip!
How was your trip to Moab?
Great videos! The scenery (in the few that I've watched so far) has been stunning. Gets me itching to head out west.
Appreciate the comment! Glad you’re enjoying the channel 👊🏼
In 1980 I took my girlfriend camping in devil’s kitchen
1972 chevy C10 swb (2nd)!!!
Started snowing on Christmas Eve
We had to do the backside of elephant hill in a 2x in snow at dusk!
I’m not lying!
That’s no small feat! Thanks for sharing 👊🏼
Ah yes. SO much Utah, so little time.
Hahaha well said.
My favorite trip... Instead of continuing around to silver staircase go towards the park exit. Stop and hike joint trail. Then exit and camp just outside the park. Continue home through bobbies hole and check out the ruins along the way.
Right on! 👊🏼💯
I have always wanted to do that. How difficult is bobby's hole?
Thanks for sharing. Have you ever driven in the Mill Canyon area? This looks a lot like it. Will add to the list. I hope you have done Chicken Corners and Long Canyon.
I haven’t hit Mill Canyon, thanks for the suggestions!
Absolutely amazing. We're going back top Moab in May and this trail just got added to the list.
Right on! Thanks for the comment 👊🏼
Great video! Can't wait to get out there, we're doing this trail in late July.
Awesome! You guys will love it!
Great video. Thanks from New Zealand.
Thank you for the comment! You’ve got some beautiful country to explore there in NZ!
Loved the R2D2 hiding shot!
You’re the first to mention that! Was a fun one to capture.
Thanks for a great vedio
You’re welcome, glad you enjoyed it!
Nice video. That trail looks so great. Keep up the great work.
Thanks 👊🏼💯
Great video man! Good job on the filming and editing 🤘
Appreciate it! Glad you enjoyed it 👊🏼
Excellent video! 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻. We’re going on two weeks. Haven’t hit this trail yet. I love all the different camera angles
Awesome! Thanks. Have a great trip!
That trail is beautiful!!! I really have to get out there someday, great video!!!
It’s one I would love to do again someday! Thanks for the comment 👊🏼
Go. Tomorrows are not guaranteed my friend. In fact, tomorrow is not a sure thing. Go now.
Nicely done and good work on the photography.
Appreciate the comment Joe!
Okay, so I guess you came in from Monticello through the Needles entrance ? I need to spend more time in that area. Cool.
Came from Moab but yes, Needles Entrance!
We did Tn to Sedona Az this summer and am Planning Tn to Moab for June of 21. Hoping to stop in Telluride Co on the way out there!
Sounds like a great trip! Yeah, Ouray/Telluride and Moab in the same trip is the way to go for out of state folks like us. They are so close together by highway or take the Rimrocker from Montrose to Moab and do the whole thing on dirt!
Great job - thoroughly enjoyed the whole video - Wondering about the trail rating - rated "Difficult" but looks like stock JL could navigate with little issues
Thanks for the comment, Charlie! I think you may drag here and there with a stock height JL. Wether you would high center and get stuck is hard to say but there are a few sections where I would recommend having a small lift and 35s. That being said, if it’s a Rubicon and you’ve got a winch or another vehicle with you to assist and have good tire placement, you may be fine. Would love to hear if you give it a try! You can also check out the trail reviews on www.trailsoffroad.com to see what types of vehicles others have taken on the trail.
Awsome trail 👍👍
Thanks for the comment! 👊🏼
Good stuff.
Thank you!
Awesome vid.
Thanks so much!
Great video!
What GMRS hand held radio are you using? TIA
Great videography and editing. Looks like someone had to do some climbing to get some of those shots. Well done!
We did! Haha. Thanks for the comment, appreciate it! 👊🏼
One odd thing about Elephant Road is they've placed concrete ramps at some of the harder stairsteps. You can see them in the vid' as gray patches.
I found that odd as well. I’m guessing it’s for erosion? They actually made it more difficult because the rain made them more slick than the slick rock. Lol
Great video, makes me want to buy an off road vehicle.
Appreciate the comment! 👊🏼
How wide is your jeep? Wondered if my Yukon will fit that narrow section
Amazing scenery. Also, because of all of your older videos I knew exactly what you were doing just before you hit the trail! I’m pretty much an expert overlander at this point. 😂
Also, my son just saw me watching: “whooooooooaaaaaa that’s so coool!”
You basically are! Haha 💙💯
Question, do you think a stock Rubicon Gladiator could do this trail?
So sick! 🤙
👊🏼🤙🏼
Amazing trails and great work on the video! We just found your channel, and can say you now have some Canadian 🇨🇦 fans.
Thanks so much! Would love to make it up to Canada some day. 💙💯
I know im randomly asking but does any of you know a tool to get back into an Instagram account??
I was dumb forgot my password. I would appreciate any tips you can offer me.
@Angelo Braydon instablaster :)
@Zaire Cameron i really appreciate your reply. I found the site on google and im trying it out now.
Takes a while so I will reply here later when my account password hopefully is recovered.
@Zaire Cameron It did the trick and I now got access to my account again. I'm so happy:D
Thanks so much, you saved my ass :D
Thank you!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Nice video. How wide is your Jeep and Devils Pocket?
I’m running a different tire/wheel setup now than in this video but my Jeep is roughly 76” wide which is about the width of devils pocket. I could hear my tire sidewalls squeaking on the stone walls.
Fun video. It's cool you were able to spend the day with dad and son.
Think we could do this in our Grand Cherokee? We did Fins N Things and Hells Revenge with it, is it harder than those you think?
Hey thanks for the comment! Elephant Hill Road/Trail is a number or two higher on the rating scale than Fins n Things with taller ledges and obstacles. Clearance will be your main issue. Not sure how much lift you’re running and what size tire but I’d say a few inches of lift and at least 35s to make it through Elephant Hill. Really fun and beautiful trail but very costly to get recovered from so make sure you have a winch or another vehicle with you!
@@4XTRAIL I had a feeling it was a little harder. I have 2 inches, which is about max for the Grand Cherokee unfortunately, and almost 32" tires. I agree that clearance would be an issue. We are thinking about the white rim trail and then Rimrocker to Colorado so it will be a great time regardless. Just thinking of something else we may be able to do while there. Thanks for the info. I have a feeling we will be running solo so definitely don't want to take any chances.
Nicely done video! Some of the better off-road videography I have seen lately. What are you using for editing software for your video? Appears you are using at least one Go-Pro?
Appreciate the comment Joe! Back when I shot this particular video I was using almost exclusively my iPhone 11 - I now primarily use a GoPro Hero9. For editing I use iMovie on a MacBook Pro M1. Currently looking for a decent DSLR to use for static 4K video and plan to continue using the GoPro for anything dynamic.
Want a great video. Really enjoyed. I’m headed out there in a couple months. Do you have lockers? Do you need lockers? I’ll be in a ‘17 JK. 3” lift on 35’s. Would appreciate any advice/hints. By the way will be there for three weeks. Gonna earn every badge the girl can muster.
Hey John, thanks for the comment! I don’t have lockers and you shouldn’t need them for Elephant Hill. I have a helical diff in the rear which does act as a locker of sorts and it definitely helps - but with the lift and tires you have you should be fine. Obviously disconnecting your sway bar and airing down are a must! You’ll have such a blast out there. Three weeks is a terrific amount of time too. If you get worn out in Moab I highly recommend Ouray, Silverton and Telluride areas in southwestern CO. The Rimrocker Trail connects Moab to Montrose CO and takes a couple of days to complete. Fun way to get between the two states if you like remote primitive camping. Would love to hear how the trip goes!
Good job of filming. Love the trail. What is the overall width of the Jeep tires?
Thanks Dennis - just took a rough measurement and came up with 76" wide from outside of tire to outside of tire. The narrow squeeze section of Elephant Hill was definitely close to the same width as my Jeep!
what's up with that clean stripe on the driver's door? not sure why I even care, but I do.
Haha that’s observant and a good question! There was a lot of sand and mud flung onto the Jeep so the “clean stripe” is from me dumping my water bottle on the outside my window and side view mirror to try and see out. I ended up just rolling my window down LOL
That looks like a very nice trail. It's going on the list (once i get a vehicle up for the task). What size are the tires on the jeep?
Thanks for the comment! I’m running 37s
How long of a drive is it to get to the trailhead? Thx a bunch
Going for memory - from the Canyonlands National Park entrance to EH trailhead was maybe 15min? I think that’s the question?
Just found your channel and subscribed. Beautiful scenery, thank you.
What song is that from 8:45 to 12:45? Mesmerizing.
Thanks for the comment and sub! The song is called Blank Slate by VYEN. I found it on the RUclips music library for content creators.
@@4XTRAIL Thank you for the reply. Maybe we'll meet out on the trails someday. If you see some old guy in a CJ5 that looks like he doesn't know what he's doing.....that'd be me.
@@michaelwier1222 Hahaha, I love it.
how were the milestars on the slick rock
They were great - they’re a pretty sticky compound so I was always impressed with them on the rocks and this trip was no exception.
Do you think a stock 2021 wrangler could make it thorugh? I leased one haha. Trying to get my money's worth. 😅
Haha, that’s awesome. No, sadly
I don’t think it would. Larger tires and lift really help in the rougher sections.
Would you say a jk sport stock can do this trail safely?
No - while portions of the trail could be done in a stock sport Wrangler, other sections would be very difficult or impossible. I would recommend a minimum of 2.5” lift and 33s + a winch and full recovery gear or a second vehicle. Tow out fees start around $2k so you want to err on the safe side. For reference I’m running 3.5” lift and 37s in this video. Hope that helps!
Thoughts on stock suspension JLU running this "road"? Good driver and MTs.
That’s a tough one - maybe check out trailsoffroad.com and read some reviews of others who have done the trail. Here are my thoughts:
I think chances are you will make it fine - especially if it’s a Rubi (lockers). You will get a few bumps and scrapes along the way - mainly undercarriage.
Make sure you have a winch or a second vehicle to help if you get hung up since the tow fee is very high.
Good driver + spotter definitely makes a huge difference.
It doesn't make sense to me why they ban offroading vehicles like ATV's and UTV's. Anyone know why they do that?
I’ve ridden ATVs quite a bit in the past and generally the reasoning behind certain trails being off-limits was to preserve the terrain. I think it’s just a lot easier for ATVs/UTVs to power slide, rooster tail and generally drive more recklessly than a road vehicle would. Not sure if that’s the reasoning for Elephant Hill or not?? Also maybe to keep the crowds down. There is a daily limit of how many vehicles can run this trail.
@@4XTRAIL That makes sense.
Peeped the MO plates @4:29. KCMO area here.
Yeah bro! We are on the STL side of the state.
Did you make any wrong turns? Or was the trail easy to follow?
Good question. We did a little exploring down an offshoot from the main trail but otherwise stayed on the primary loop which is well marked and easy to follow. There’s definitely some optional routes that would be fun to explore if you have more time.
Would a lifted Jeep gladiator have made it on this day? Also, what is the name of those brake pads again? Great music btw
Thanks for the comment! I’d guess you would have no problem with that setup. Here’s a link to the brake pads: www.beefedupbrakes.com
Go for it. last time I was there I saw a stock Nissan Xterra there.
How long did it take to go thru it and back? Very nice vid
If I recall it took about 4+hrs but we stopped quite a bit for filming! Glad you enjoyed it
Have you done kanes creek canyon in moab.. best trail imo
Heard it’s beautiful! It’s on my list.
@@4XTRAIL Yea its beautiful, technical, has lots of creek crossings, its my favorite trail i lead it every yr for jeep safari
What were the specs on your jeep? Lift, tires, etc..
Hey man! 3.5” lift 37” tires. Best I can remember I think 35s and 2.5” lift would be just fine for a wrangler on elephant hill. Great trail for sure!
@@4XTRAIL I did it for the first time as a very inexperienced trail driver with a TJ on 31's and a 3" lift. I did have lockers though and I used them. Last October I saw a stock Nissan Xterra at the Joint Trail head parking area so it made it though SOB hill. It had no body damage. I was surprised. Believe it or not there is a youtube video of some guys in a stock VW Touareg! Great video. It is my favorite trail too. I hope to be back there this October.
How long did it take to do?
We stopped quite a bit for video capture but I’d say without much stopping, around 5 hours.
What trails do you need a permit for in Moab and how do you obtain one? Thanks
Trailsoffroad.com is a great resource for this. The only one I have run that requires an actual trail permit is Elephant Hill and I was able to acquire one through the Canyonlands National Park website! Hope that helps.
@@4XTRAIL thank you!
Limestone not sandstone?
I probably misspoke - good catch!
Sandstone
Correct! I misspoke 🤪
@@4XTRAIL greetings from the Great Nortwest! 5th generation North Idaho. Outstanding Video. I used to live in Durango, and hit Moab quite a few times. I had to get back home. Nothing like the Nortwest.
Are you running 37’s?
Yes 37x12.5r17
Awesome video!!! Did you drive them out there?
Yeah we drove our rigs out from the Midwest. When I lived in Missouri I made the drive out to Moab twice - it’s a long haul but totally worth it!
Some day I’d like to do Moab.
It’s worth all the highway miles to get out there. Some beautiful scenery and amazing trails to explore! I know some folks fly out and rent built Jeeps instead of driving their own. That’s not my preferred way but it definitely saves some extra time on the road.
Can this be done with side by sides
I don’t believe they allow side by sides on Elephant Hill but check here to be sure: www.nps.gov/cany/index.htm
@@4XTRAIL thanks for the info
I need to plan a trip to go to Utah, the trails look amazing. Great video man. 🤘🏼
You’ll love it! Thanks bro. 👊🏼
GO
Great video! Noticed you were from Missouri. What part? Im in NE OK about 20 min from MO state line. Love to wheel with you sometime!
We're on the western edge of St Louis County. I'd love to make it down your way sometime!
@@4XTRAIL where do u go around here in stl? I’m from wildwood mo
@@toddt14 Same! 👊🏼 Moonlight Racing in Sullivan has some decent trails. I’ve heard Pruitt Mtn near Farmington is good but haven’t been yet. Have you tried either of those?
@@4XTRAIL yes, i've been to moonlight but didn't really care for it for whatever reason. i like smorr down in seymour, mo. Much bigger place and wide variety of trails.
@@toddt14 Yeah, I’ve only been to smorr once and wasn’t as impressed as I hoped I’d be. It’s a subjective thing! It’s also tough finding “good” Midwest spots once you’ve been out west LOL. I’m hoping to hit up Arkansas and Tennessee in the near future. I hear there’s some nice trails down that way.
What air pressure for the Milestars?
oops, just heard you say 15 psi
@@Tpixs Yeah, only 15psi on that day. I’m not running bead locks so I typically err on the high side.
think my mini van can do these trails?
Hahaha. You need to lift that thing and come with us next time 😂😂😂
Nice video, do you have 35” tires or 37”? We will do this trail this June 2021
Thanks for the comment! 37s and 3.5 lift. You will love this trail! Make sure to reserve your vehicle tag the day before.
Are you on 35”s or 37”s? Lift?
37s with 3.5 lift 👊🏼
@@4XTRAIL what did you go with? My Diesel Rubicon arrives in two weeks. New to all this stuff.
Dude NICE! Mine has been an evolution but currently on 3.5 JKS coils w/Teraflex 9550 shocks and Alpine IR mid arms. If you’re planning to do lift/tires you may find this video helpful: ruclips.net/video/HOn01NJ85C8/видео.html also check out TrailRecon’s channel if you haven’t already! He drives a diesel Rubi as well!
Great videos man! I’m hoping to get out to Moab in the next few years. It’s a long haul from Michigan. I was wondering how you chose camping spots every night? Can you just camp anywhere?
Thanks! It is a haul but you will love it. As for camping - in Moab there are mostly designated camp sites but there are enough of them that you can usually find one the day of. I’d definitely recommend hitting up southwestern CO while you’re out there too! Camping in the Ouray/Telluride area is more dispersed so lots of options. One of my favorite trails to camp off of is Poughkeepsie Gulch near the Engineer Pass intersection. Also check out Porphyry Gulch. I like having a general plan of where we’re staying each night but also leave room for spontaneity. So much beauty out in CO/UT!
@@4XTRAIL right on. Thanks for the info. Will probably do two separate trips unless my wife can get two weeks off work. The Colorado trails look much milder and more picturesque so we’ll probably do that one first.
@@TrailExpedition Two weeks would be ideal but I’ve typically done both in about 10 days. This last trip we spent around 3 days in Ouray, a couple of days on the Rimrocker Trail over to Moab and a couple of days in Moab itself. When you count a days travel there and back it ends up being about a 10 day trip. The more time the better obviously but even a week out there will be totally worth it! trailsoffroad.com is a great resource for scoping out trails. Take care!
@@4XTRAIL yeah more of a two day trip there and back from Michigan as it’s over twenty hours each way. I’ll make the trip soon hopefully! Your Rimrocker trail video was great as well. I watched them all.
You did all of the trail without lockers? Is there a fee for trail entry??
Yep, no lockers here 🤙🏼 You do have to make an online reservation as there are only a handful of vehicles allowed in per day. The reservation is free but there is a cost to enter the Canyonlands National Park...maybe $20? I can’t recall exactly. Totally worth it!
Why didn't you just get a Rubicon? If you off road that much, wouldn't it make more sense?
Good question! There’s actually two schools of thought on this: 1. being the Rubi is better equipped out of the box for moderate trail use than a sport or Sahara (this is true!) 2. being that if you plan to upgrade to larger tires (37 +) and do more extreme trails regularly you’ll need to upgrade everything anyway - and in that case - the Rubicon is a waste because you pay more for a few added components that will need to be replaced regardless. For me, I didn’t actually know much about Jeeps when I first bought mine - if I had known what I know now I would have gotten a Rubicon for the stronger front axle alone. Hope that helps clarify a little!
@@4XTRAIL it does, thanks for the friendly reply.
I think think the front locker alone, would have been enough a reason. I guess most people rarely use them anyway, though.
@@Frissdas1207 A front locker is great for sure. I’ve heard mixed reviews on the stock e-locker. I think for most wheeling it would hold up fine! Thanks for the comments!
Is it pretty easy to get the permit for this trail?
It was, yes. Reserved it online through the Canyonlands website. As I recall, you have to reserve a day early for the day pass and a couple of days early for an overnight pass.
@@4XTRAIL thanks for the info.
Cool movie, music not so much
Thanks for watching!
Putting a badge of your Jeep for Ophir Pass is laughable…it’s a Subaru road all day! They must’ve made that one for the Compass or Renegade 😂
Haha yeah, I remember passing a crossover on Ophir pass and thinking “I wonder why this is a badge of honor trail?” I’ve done quite a few badge of honor trails since this video and some are harder than others but most of the trails I’ve done (including the most challenging ones) aren’t badge of honor trails.
Guess you have to change the title to your video now, no?
Hey thanks for the comment - but I’m not sure I understand the question?
@@4XTRAIL Oh right, you said it's actually a road not a trail. I didn't know that either.
@@tomcat5986 Oh LOL yeah, apparently “Elephant Hill Road” is the official name. Still a trail in my book haha.