Trail Etiquette

All Jeep Club Maui Members are welcome but there are a few things that are worth mentioning before you join us on a ride.

If there is a problem while off the beaten path, we will do our best to get you going again or towed back to pavement where you can get additional help. Perform all normal maintenance to help ensure this is not needed. 

A communictions leader will make an announcement prior to most formal Meets and rides in order go over best practices and ensure understanding on the use of two way radios.  JCM uses 400-470Mhz (UHF) frequency handheld radios to communicate on the trail.  We will specify the channel prior to departing towards the trail/ride.  Spotters should use handheld radios to help direct traffic and spacing at times when a column is starting up a steep hill and over hills with blind backsides as well communicate with drivers who need assistance.  It is strongly suggested that you obtain a GMRS license for enhanced communications.  

Leave your cares and worries behind and enjoy the beautiful outdoors with us. We will do our best to inform you of what is possible or probable but be aware and prepared that damage to your Jeep may occur. Safe and responsible off roading is a team effort and we all need to work together. Being respectful of each other on the trail makes for a better experience for all.

There is often no gas available at the meetup spots so please plan ahead and arrive early with at last ¾ tank of gas. It's also highly recommended that you bring water, snacks, and additional fluids for your vehicle.  Before hitting the trail or ride you may want to “air down” for better traction and ride quality as well as disconnect your front sway bar (if equipped) when we leave pavement. We want to start a the driver's meeting at the scheduled meetup time and at this time you should be ready to hit the trail/ride.

Just before hitting the trail we will have a quick meeting to review expectations and details about the trail. It is important to be present to catch any last minute changes and details before we hit the trail. At the driver's meeting you will meet the following folks that will be running the event.

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Trail Boss - The trail boss will go over where we will be going and details about what to expect.  The trail boss will lead the Jeep train, establish the lines and set the pace. While on the trail/ride, the trail boss is in charge so be sure to listen to their instructions.

Mid-Gunner - Because we occasionally see very long Jeep trains, we may have the need for a mid-gunner to ensure effective communications from the front of the train to the back. This is especially important because our Radios have limited range and may need to be relayed multiple times before everyone gets the message.

Tail Gunner - Last on the trail and last off the trail. The tail gunner takes the rear position and will be there to help in the event of an issue. If need be, the tail gunner will tow you off the trail where additional help can be called. 

Medical - We would like to recognize and identify anyone with advanced medical training at the driver's meeting. In the event of any medical emergency we will request your expertise and help.

Turn on your head lights for better visibility and fall in behind the trail boss as they slowly roll out past the tail gunner.  Please be patient as it can take a while to get the entire train going. ​We are a Tread Lightly club and will be staying on established trails. Take your trash as well as trash you find on the trail out with you.

While on the trail/ride try to keep up with the Jeep in front of you with a safe distance between you. Following too closely doesn’t allow you to see rocks and obstacles on the road or trail that you will need to navigate. This is especially important on obstacles or steeper hills where a mechanical failure could cause the Jeep in front of you to roll towards you.

Keep watch for the Jeep behind you. Anyone not comfortable with the speed of the Jeep train is encouraged to slow down. If you lose sight of the Jeep behind you, slow down or stop and wait. This will work it’s way all the way up to the trail boss to let them know to adjust the speed of the train.

There are often no restrooms at the meetup spots or on the trail/ride. We may schedule bathroom stops throughout the run, but if you can't wait, get on the radio and let us know so we can stop the train. You might not be the only one and this gives everyone the opportunity. We ask for your patience and understanding as finding good spots to stop on the trail (especially for women) can be challenging. When we do stop on the trail, we need to leave room for others to get by. Look for open spots and pull as far as possible to the side of the road or trail.

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When we get to the end of the trail, take a moment to check out your Jeep while airing up and reconnecting. You have been driving at slow speeds for a while and may not have noticed something that will be a problem at freeway speeds. Look to your trail leaders for help as needed.

Our rides are meant to be fun.  This is intended to be a time of laughter, comradery, making new friends and also challenging your limits of Jeeping while being in a group environment.  Please try to have fun,  maybe introduce yourself to someone new, and be respectful to others who may be new or less experienced.   Mahalo nui loa for being a Jeep Club Maui Member!  See you on the trails.

* Jeep Club Maui (JCM) shall not be held responsible for injuries to a participant and/or guest. nor shall be held responsible for damage or loss to any vehicle or personal property at any JCM event, meeting, or scheduled trail ride. Participation with JCM is voluntary and is solely at the risk of those who choose to participate. Because of the nature of off-roading, all children must be a minimum of 2 years old and able control head movement in order to participate in the trail ride.  Participation in JCM led meetups and rides expresses your acceptance of these policies and releases all liabilities from Jeep Club Maui Leaders, Members, and the Organization and Group regardless of action, situation, or occurence.    

** JCM does not promote the use of operating a HAM or GMRS radio without the proper license. It is up to the operator of the radio to be sure you are FCC compliant and operating within your class of license.