I'm planning on taking the family to Utah in March. I've been eyeballing the WRT but am a little concerned. The video and Pictures I've seem make it look like a pretty easy trail. I've got a 16 TRD OR Tacoma with the 2"OME lift and good tires. My concern is I don't have a wench (yet) but I do have on board air. Is there need on this trail for self recovery? I was reading on the Canyon lands website that I should.
Thanks for the info. Great pictures btw.
No, no need for a winch on the WRT. Unless, there is going to be inclement weather. If it's wintertime, then yes. If it is monsoon season, then yes, but for the most part the entire Trail including dropping down Lathrop Canyon is easily traversed in a stock vehicle. Your money would be better spent on rocker panel protection, really good drinking water container, good tent, a roof rack, and maybe even an awning.
as the time nears check out weather forecasts and talk to rangers. The most beneficial discussions you will ever have about the WRT is a conversation on the phone with a park ranger. Call them during the off season, they don't have a lot to do and are more than willing to engage you in, sometimes, an hours long conversation about you, your equipment, what it is you are looking for, and a plethora of good information on trip planning the WRT tour.
The Canyonlands web site advises having extraction equipment for the park in general. I"d never gointo the Maze or exit the park heading south of the Needles district without one. Here is my son in laws stock 4Runner Trail on easily the most technical section of the WRT. Enjoy :)