January 2025 kicked off with a rugged journey through the Panoche Hills heading toward New Idria. This trip had it all—exploring historic old mining sites, navigating fun water crossings, and putting some muscle to work on the trail.
We spent time checking out the remnants of the mining operations, soaking in the sense of history left behind in the remote hills. The landscape was raw and beautiful, with dusty washes and rocky paths challenging every mile.
Along the way, a fallen tree blocked our route. Using a static tow rope and a soft shackle, my Raptor easily pulled the tree out of the way, clearing the trail without needing to use a winch.
From historic ruins to hands-on trail work, this trip was a reminder that off-roading is as much about problem-solving and discovery as it is about the drive. A solid start to the year with plenty of stories to tell.
