by Matt Konkle
Managing Editor
MOAB, Utah—So you’ve decided to take the proverbial plunge and attend the annual Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, Utah.
Awesome.
And, as you stare out at your Jeep, you may be starting to worry that it isn’t enough to conquer all the terrain Moab has to offer.
So, is it really a requirement to have a built-up Jeep for Moab?
And the short answer: No, you don’t need a lifted Jeep to enjoy EJS. But let’s cover some important points so you know what to expect and how to prep your rig the smart way.
First off, you should realize that the Red Rock Four Wheelers, the group running EJS, works hard to ensure that the event is for everyone. It is not just for off-road enthusiasts with 40-inch tires, a four-inch lift and all the works.
The RR4W does a solid job of rating trails from easy (1-3) to very difficult (9-10). If you’re not lifted, pick trails rated in that lower-to-mid range. You’ll still get the views, the camaraderie and the off-road adventure without tearing up your vehicle.
Whether rolling in a bone-stock Wrangler or a fully built crawler, there is a trail for you. EJS isn’t just about the extreme stuff—there are nine days of organized trail runs, ranging from scenic and mellow to wild and technical.
However, even though you are capable of running trails in the Moab area during EJS without a built-up Jeep, you do still need some things to ensure the vehicle is trail-ready.
That means stuff like putting good tires on the Jeep. Look for all-terrain or mud-terrain tires and not just regular street rubber, because those beefier tires will have the grip you need to seriously attack trail obstacles.
Additionally, all vehicles must have front and rear recovery points — not only to help if something happens to your Jeep, but in case you need to help someone else. This is pretty much a standard rule to follow wherever you plan to off-road, but even more so with bigger EJS groups. If you don’t have somewhere to hook up a tow strap, you’ll likely be holding up the entire group. And that doesn't make for a fun trail run.
Also, skid plates underneath your Jeep can be beneficial. While not required, they help protect your underside from unexpected rock kisses. Even on lower-rated trails, it is easy to make a mistake and clip an obstacle, so skid plates help shield off potential damage.
Another essential is a tire deflation device, as you’ll need to air down those tires before hitting the trail. Depending on the tire, you probably want to be somewhere in the 15-pound-per-square-inch neighborhood to ensure you have as much tire on the ground as possible. Not sure what a tire deflation device is, then take a look at our helpful tire air-down article.
Now, that said, installing a suspension lift is certainly something to ponder, especially if you plan on doing more off-roading in the future.
A lifted Jeep allows for better ground clearance, improved approach and departure angles, the ability to install larger tires, and simply more confidence that you’ll be able to overcome most trail obstacles.
The bottom line—you do not need a lifted Jeep to enjoy Easter Jeep Safari. Stock Jeeps are welcome and can handle many of the surrounding trails. Just be honest about your rig’s capabilities, stick to appropriate trail ratings and don’t be afraid to ask for a spotter.
It’s not about how built your Jeep is—it’s about having fun, meeting fellow enthusiasts, and getting out and enjoying some of the country’s most epic terrain.
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