ZUKIWORLD ADVENTURE SERIES
Wheeling The Wonders Of Washington State.
Story/Editor: Eric Bewley Photo: S. Bewley & V. DocFunkie
NACHES, WA. - We traveled to Washington state this summer as part of the Adventure Series to re-visit some of the exceptional trails that are offered in the Naches area just North and West of Yakima, Washington. We met up with a group of rough and ready wheelers, some old friends, and some new faces and headed out looking to explore some of our favorite out back trails.
This area is exceptional for wheeling due to several reasons, some being the great views that go on forever and include several large peaks like Mt. Rainier and Mt. St. Helens, the trails are tight and twisting and if you’re caught not paying attention you just might end up sacrificing a mirror or two to the trail gods. Also, there are a couple of famous areas that are close to each other and represent our destination for the day. Funny rocks, an outcropping of rocks much like the trails of Moab and Moon rocks, a truly unique experience of volcanic rock. Sharp, jagged, and steep these rocks afford even the most advanced wheeler a challenge or two.
VIDEO:
Samurai puttin’ the hammer down to get over muddy step | .mpg | 766 Kb
Jay attempting the famed crack | .mpg | 1694 kb
Bewley climbing the crack | .mpg | 2013 kb
After an exciting jaunt through the wilderness on the Shoestring trail we arrived at Funny Rocks and most everyone played around on the rocks climbing up steps and over boulder obstacles. The Crack is a well-known obstacle that is quite challenging for narrow and short vehicles like Suzuki. It is always good for a little excitement and didn’t disappoint us on this trip.
There was plenty excitement during the whole day and muchas carnage to be had. Using the spare tire as a kick stand, busting rear axles, and breaking leaf springs only added to the experience and the groups’ spirits were great all day as we conquered all of the challenges we glee.
This area is a ‘must do’ for the avid wheeling enthusiast. If you can swing it, make your reservations and head on up to Washington State for some of the best wheeling the North West has to offer.
