Prepping for an Off-Road Weekend
By Terry Pritchard
There’s nothing quite like a weekend on the trails with fellow Jeepers. The Jeep Enthusiasts of Eastern Pennsylvania (JEEP) club is gearing up for one of the most anticipated events of the season—the Fall Trail Ride at Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area (AOAA) in Coal Township, PA. With rugged trails, crisp fall air, and plenty of Jeep camaraderie, this weekend promises to be one for the books. And to make it even better, many of us will be camping right at the Trailhead Campground, so the adventure doesn’t stop when we get off the trails.
Whether you’re a seasoned trail veteran or heading out for your first club ride, preparation is key. Here’s your guide to making the most out of the weekend.
- Get Your Jeep Trail-Ready
Before hitting the trails, make sure your rig is in top shape. A quick pre-ride inspection can save you from unexpected breakdowns.
- Fluids: Double-check oil, coolant, brake, and transmission levels.
- Tires: Inspect for proper tread depth and you can air down to an appropriate level at the trailhead.
- Recovery Points: Make sure you’ve got secure front and rear tow points. Almost all modern Wranglers and Gladiators have this covered.
- Lighting: Fall days are shorter, so ensure your headlights, fogs, and trail lights are working properly. You never know if you might be out later than intended.
- Communications: Make sure to have a functional radio in your vehicle. Trail communication is important and timely information. If you don’t have a radio, look into GMRS radios (and license) or usually there will be extras to borrow.
2. Pack Recovery & Safety Gear
AOAA trails offer everything from scenic beginner paths to more technical, advanced challenges, so it’s smart to be prepared. Essentials include:
- Tow straps and soft shackles
- A quality recovery kit
- Portable air; Powertank or compressor & tire deflator
- First aid kit
- Fire extinguisher
Pro tip: If you’ve been eyeing new off-road lighting or accessories, this is a perfect chance to test them out in real-world conditions.
3. Camping Comfort at Trailhead Campground
One of the best parts of this weekend is camping right at the Trailhead Campground. After a full day of wheeling, it’s the perfect spot to kick back around the fire, swap stories, and hang out with your fellow Jeepers.
Pack the essentials:
- Tent, sleeping bag, and warm layers (nights can get chilly in the fall)
- Cooking gear or a portable grill
- Camp chairs for relaxing at night
- Lanterns or string lights for your campsite
4. Food & Drinks for the Weekend
While there are local spots in town, most of us like to cook and hang at camp. Make it fun by planning:
- Easy trail snacks (jerky, nuts, protein bars)
- Quick lunches for the trail (wraps, sandwiches, or prepped meals)
- Fire-friendly or grill-ready dinners (burgers, chili, or foil-pack meals)
- Don’t forget plenty of water and your favorite campfire beverages
5. Prepare for Jeep Club Camaraderie
One of the best things about riding with JEEP (Jeep Enthusiasts of Eastern Pennsylvania) is the community. This weekend is about more than just the trails—it’s about building friendships, helping each other out, and creating memories. If you’re newer to the group, don’t be shy. This is a welcoming crew, always ready to lend a hand or share advice. Bring a campfire story or two, and you’ll fit right in.
Ready to Roll
The Fall Trail Ride at AOAA is the perfect way to close out the season with incredible trails, beautiful fall scenery, and a great group of Jeepers. With a little prep, you’ll be set for a weekend of wheeling, camping, and community at the Trailhead Campground.
So pack your gear, load up the Jeep, and get ready for a weekend adventure you won’t forget.
Jeepin’ Terry is the Events & Off-Road Content Specialist for Oracle Lighting. In his spare time, he is the host of the Jeep Life Podcast and co-founder of the Jeep Enthusiasts of Eastern Pennsylvania, one of the largest Jeep clubs in the state. His obsession with Jeeps started in the 80s with his boss’s big bad blue CJ5. Growing up in the mountains of Tennessee, Terry spent plenty of time on the trails and in the outdoors. His 2017 Wrangler, named Kylo, has been to California and back and everywhere in between, finding trails and adventures everywhere… and constantly asks for more.