Every year, off-road enthusiasts with full sized vehicles (Broncos included) flock to the stunning landscapes of Hurricane, Utah, to take part in the Winter 4x4 Jamboree. This annual event has become a first of the season kick-off event in the off-roading community, offering trails of all difficulty levels, breathtaking scenery, and as well as providing needed funding to keep Utah trails open and available to all users.
A Brief History of the Winter 4x4 Jamboree
On January 23-24, 2015, DRATS (Desert Roads and Trails Society) hosted the first annual Winter 4x4 Jamboree. The objectives of the Jamboree are to promote recreation on Sand Mountain in Hurricane, Utah, and to raise funds to promote and support public land use and protection throughout Utah and northern Arizona (Arizona Strip). At the first Jamboree, 284 vehicles registered for the event. In 2024, over 1,000 participants registered and $78,000 was distributed to the organizations that DRATS supports.
DRATS donates 60% of Jamboree net profit to an organization called UPLA (Utah Public Land’s Alliance). UPLA has been instrumental in organizing and conducting efforts to preserve our regional treasure, Sand Mountain, and other threatened public lands throughout the State. I have been proud to serve on the Board of Directors for this organization for the last 8 years and have been stunned at all that has been accomplished
The remaining proceeds are donated to Utah 4WD Association, (U4WDA) Washington County Search and Rescue, Blue Ribbon Coalition, Tread Lightly and any other related organizations as determined by the DRATS Officers and Directors.
Over the years, the Winter Jamboree has grown into a premier off-roading event in the United States, drawing participants from across the country and beyond. The event showcases the area's unique terrain, including sandstone formations, desert landscapes, and challenging trails, from sand dunes to rocky washes.
2025 Jamboree Highlights
The 2025 Winter 4x4 Jamboree took place from January 17 to January 20, providing four days of trails, with departure times at 8:00am and 10:00am and offering 35 distinct and different trails with difficulty ratings from 1-10. Brian and I had the opportunity to volunteer as Trail Help guides, working on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. We worked with Trail Leader Gil Meacham, spotting on all 7 rated trails. In case you are wondering, a 7 rated trail is described as: Trail consisting of rock, sand and considerable slickrock with many steps exceeding 48”. Steep inclines and declines are prevalent. Enhanced off road equipment is required including locking devices (front & rear), 35" tires, maximum vehicle ground clearance, and tow hooks. A winch is desirable. Excellent driving skills are required. Vehicle mechanical or body damage is likely. Rollover possibilities exist.
The trails we helped on were Plan B, Double Sammy, and Milt’s Mile. We had a wonderful time, meeting some great new people and reconnecting with others. The line up on for the 8:00 departure on Saturday was incredible as everyone staged into corrals at the Washington County Fairgrounds.
This year’s event also hosted a Bronco only run on Wayne’s World trail with a 6 rating. If anyone attended this run, please reply in the comments and let us know how it went. We spotted a few Broncos in the mix and hope that more owners will attend and support this event!
Registration Fees and Community Impact
Registration fees for the Winter 4x4 Jamboree was $50 per vehicle per day, and there was also a vendor show, BBQ dinner, raffle, and auction. All of the collected fees help play a vital role in supporting the off-roading community and local initiatives. Proceeds from the event are used to:
- Maintain and improve trails in the area.
- Construct parking areas and restroom facilities
- Support local charities and community projects.
- Promote sustainable off-roading practices to protect the environment.
Why the Winter 4x4 Jamboree Matters
The Winter 4x4 Jamboree isn’t just about off-roading; it’s about making new friends, celebrating the beauty of Sand Mountain, and doing your part in keeping trails open. Events like these highlight the importance of responsible off-roading and preserving access to public lands for future generations.
Plan Your Visit for Next Year
I know it’s still early in 2025 and most of us haven’t attended our first event or adventure yet, but you just might want to put this Jamboree down for your consideration in 2026. This year the weather was sunny and mild, in the 30’s in the morning, but warming up to the mid 50’s in the afternoon. And…not only is this event itself affordable and for a great cause, but it also occurs in the off-season for Southern Utah. Brian and I found decent, clean hotel rooms, with trailer parking, for less than $50.00/night. We also found a very welcoming, supporting community in Hurricane, with many good restaurants and friendly people. In other words, for people who love events but not crowds, this is the perfect event for you.
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