Tread & Tend is our hands-on, one-day course built around one of the most over-looked yet practical skills an off-road driver can develop — the ability to safely and responsibly clear a blocked trail.
What You’ll Learn
Deadfall Assessment
You'll learn to evaluate a blocked trail — identifying what needs to move, what can stay, and the safest, most efficient approach to clearing only what is necessary to proceed. Sound judgment here is the first step toward both safety and stewardship.
Chainsaw Operation & Safety
Under the guidance of a chainsaw instructor, students receive hands-on instruction in the safe and effective use of a chainsaw in a trail environment. Topics include equipment inspection and care, personal protective equipment, cutting techniques, and situational awareness. Students learn to cut deadfall into manageable sections with precision and minimal disturbance to the surrounding landscape.
Winch Techniques for Trail Clearing
With sections cut and ready to move, students are introduced to safe, effective winch practices for dragging deadfall clear of the trail. Instruction covers rigging, anchor selection, load management, and the environmental considerations that come with moving heavy material through a natural setting.
Off-Road Driving Fundamentals
A focused morning introduction to vehicle operation — terrain reading, throttle control, and line selection giving students the confidence and control needed to position their vehicle safely and effectively throughout the clearing process.
What You’ll Leave With
• The skills to safely assess, cut, and clear deadfall from an obstructed trail
• Hands-on chainsaw instruction in a real trail environment
• Practical winch operation skills applied to trail clearing
• A clear understanding of when — and how much — to clear
• A deeper respect for the trails and wild places we all share
PLEASE NOTE - All of our group classes require a minimum TOTAL of registered students. If minimum attendance is not reached we will notify those registered to reschedule or refund by the fifth day BEFORE class.
