Moab, Utah is an off-road paradise, where red rock landscapes meet adrenaline-fueled adventure. With hundreds of miles of 4×4 trails weaving through the desert, it’s no surprise that four-wheelers from all over the country flock here to test their rigs. Whether you’re exploring the Sand Flats Recreation Area or hitting the iconic Kane Creek trail, Moab delivers a blend of beauty, challenge, and unforgettable moments.
This run marks the beginning of our new four-part video series, where we follow the crew through some of Moab’s most demanding trails. First up? The Pickle—a trail as technical as it is unpredictable. Tight lines, high-stakes decisions, and redemption arcs are just the beginning.
Nestled among Moab’s technical marvels, The Pickle is a short, intense trail that’s earned a reputation for tight squeezes, tough lines, and serious consequences. It’s a trail that favors short wheelbases, yet our team came in Gladiator-strong and ready for redemption—especially Rex, who had a tail light incident last time.
From the first obstacle, it was clear: this wasn’t going to be a walk in the park.
Before taking on a trail like The Pickle, preparation is key. Check the weather, pack essential gear, and grab updated trail maps from the Moab Information Center. Make sure your 4×4 is equipped with:
If you’re new to the area, consider joining a guided tour. Moab’s terrain isn’t just beautiful—it’s brutal if you’re not ready.
Here’s what we learned navigating The Pickle:
We watched Rex line up for the bonus route—a steep, awkward climb where he’d previously crunched a corner. This time? Smooth execution. No broken plastic, no regrets.
Trails like The Pickle don’t just test your nerves—they challenge your equipment. That’s why we count on R1 PERFORMANCE Off-Road/Tow Series Brake Pads. Engineered for rugged terrain, these pads deliver aggressive bite and exceptional fade resistance—perfect for Moab’s steep descents and unexpected stops.
Pair them with R1 GEO-Carbon Series Drilled & Slotted Brake Rotors, and you’ve got a setup that stays cool even when the trail gets hot. Whether you’re navigating loose rock, ledges, or sudden creek crossings, having reliable braking makes all the difference.
Out here, safety is more than a checklist—it’s survival. Here are a few trail-tested tips:
Moab delivers something magical. It’s more than a destination—it’s a proving ground. From the technical challenges of The Pickle to the sweeping views from Kane Creek, every mile brings a new memory (and maybe a new scratch).
We learned that smart prep, great gear, and a solid crew are the ultimate combo. And if you ask Rex, he’ll say the only thing better than redemption… is doing it without losing a tail light.
So load up, gear up, and hit the rocks. Moab is waiting—and The Pickle won’t drive itself.