Some of the takes I’ve had have likely come across kind of harsh. I have a cynical sense of humor, and for the most part, it’s just humor. Also, it’s always based on an important thought that needs to be put out there (maybe I should try making memes instead?). Today, considering we are going into the #adventuringseason, that thought is related to the explosion in popularity of places like the Daniel Boone Backcountry Byway (DBBB) and enjoying it responsibly.
As offroad enthusiasts, we need to be realistic when we talk about some of the destinations for our chosen activities. We need to be upfront to those unfamiliar and let them know what to expect, not sugarcoat or sit back and let them see for themselves like often happens.
Enter the Daniel Boone Backcountry Byway. Like the Red River Gorge itself, the DBBB has expanded well past its cult following and brings in loads of people wanting to enjoy some off-roading, or show off the unnecessary catalog of accessories they overloaded their Tacoma with. This often means “overlanders” in their daily drivers. (I somewhat include myself in that. I’ve done a section twice in my daily, another section or two here and there, but I left the home appliances, 20kW offgrid solar power kit and safari gear at the supplier because I don’t really “overland”).
As a follower of multiple Facebook groups dedicated to this sort of thing, local and regional, the local off-road tow companies are being kept very busy, and sometimes post stern warnings about a particular trail and advising folks only try in hardcore rigs. These types of posts haven’t been showing up much lately, whether due to the time of year, or the tow operators are getting some blowback from upset patrons after they were somewhat put on blast (i.e. taking an unfit vehicle places it didn’t need to, getting stranded, etc.).
The point I would like to make is that you need to really understand what you’re getting into on the Daniel Boone Backcountry Byway and surrounding area because it can get really serious out there. There’s plenty of sections that can be tackled in reasonably modified rigs (again, I’ve done it). However, there’s plenty of sections that should not be attempted, no matter how tall the snorkel is on your Toyota 4Runner.
Since my website is made to be a resource, I can’t discuss a problem without trying to offer a solution. This isn’t a bashing session because I truly put myself in situations I shouldn’t be in too often as well, but things still need to be said. I wish I had the local knowledge to paint some general picture of where the rough n rowdy trails are, but I don’t. The solution is to reach out on forums and groups for direction, go with a group led by those that know, if you do go alone and you come up to a questionable obstacle, turn around, you’ve got nothing to prove. I often wheel alone, and things happen no matter how experienced you may or may not be. Period.
The DBBB is an off-roading destination, not the overlanding paradise social media thinks it is. Leave the tea kettle, waffle maker, and “offroad trailer” at home or the campsite. Most of the trails need to be tackled as light as possible. Besides, The Gorge area isn’t all that backcountry. Where I live is further from a grocery store or gas station than you’ll ever get on the DBBB or surrounding trails. I know you folks like to be prepared for long harsh expeditions, but you don’t need to be hauling 8 days worth of rations and household appliances on the trail. You need to be upgrading your axles and installing a custom 4-link instead…
Happy Trails and Tread Lightly!