Rubicon Trail Vehicles & Gear

This information is intended to give the reader an idea of what type of vehicles and gear is needed to run the Rubicon Trail. This will be quite a controversial section because everyone has there own idea of what is needed and what should be required.

If you have the driving skills, a brand new stock Wrangler can be driven through the Rubicon, taking the bypasses. Most people should expect sheet metal damage at a minimum. Larger tires (33”), a lift kit (3”), body protection (rocker guards) and a locking or limited slip differential should be considered to prevent damage.

The following list is from the California Association of Four Wheel Drive Clubs. These items are required to partake in a CA4WDC sponsored event. This is a good starting place to prepare for a Rubicon run.

All vehicles must be maintained to conform to highway safety standards, as well as meet the minimum requirements listed below:

1. Roll bar or full cage or factory hard top
2. Functional Parking brake or Micro-Lock
3. Tow strap or rope. (recommend rated at 2 times the vehicle weight).
4. First aid kit (what do you want when you are hurt?)
5. Jack capable of lifting the vehicle and a tool capable of removing lug nuts (don't forget your wheel locks)
6. Spare tire equal to or within 3 inches of existing tires on the vehicle. (no temporary spares).
7. Fire extinguisher with gauge indicating good/full, appropriately stored
8. Seat belts for all passengers
9. Antennas must not exceed 4'6" (except when longer antennas/whips are required by certain OHV areas).
10. Adequate attachment points front and rear, i.e., tow hooks, receiver, etc. Tow balls are generally not recommended.
11. Battery hold downs (no bungee cords)

In case of trouble, carry an oil spill recovery kit. These can be picked up the kiosk at no charge. The kits were provided by El Dorado County.

Green sticker requirements
Any non-street legal vehicles need to have a green sticker and spark arrestor in place to run the Rubicon Trail.

The Rubicon Trail is a county road in both El Dorado and Placer Counties. All vehicle codes still apply. All county laws and restrictions are still enforced.