California Association of 4 Wheel Drive Clubs, Inc.
8120 36th Avenue
Sacramento, CA 95824-2304
916-381-8300

Contact: Jack Raudy
(530) 389-9154 or email jraudy@foothill.net

COLORADO SPRINGS, CO (Oct. 27, 2003) - - With an ever-increasing number of soccer moms and little-league dads wanting to take their sport utility vehicle (SUV) off the highway and explore the beautiful backcountry, Charles Wells of Colorado Springs, CO has introduced a series of four-wheel drive guidebooks including his latest, "Guide to Southern California Backroads & 4-Wheel Drive Trails."

The new southern California guide provides clear, concise directions and advice for traveling 75 spectacular backroads that appeal to both the newcomers to off roading and seasoned four-wheelers. Divided into ten regions, the book covers a variety of terrain, including Death Valley National Park, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, Panamint Mountains, Big Bear, Calico Mountains, Inland Empire and much more. Most of the trails covered in the book are convenient to Los Angeles and San Diego. Wells has also included a number of all-terrain vehicle and off road motorcycle trails.

SUV owners will discover 50 different trails well suited for their vehicles. Easy trails such as Superstition Mountain Loop and Sandstone Canyon can be driven by all SUVs with high ground clearance and low-range gearing. Moderate trails such as the Mojave Road and Grapevine Canyon near Big Bear will excite SUV owners looking for a little more challenge. Veteran four-wheelers will enjoy learning more about the challenges of difficult trails such as Sledgehammer Canyon, Achy Breaky and Heartbreak Ridge.

"I’ve lived in Big Bear for 40 years and still haven’t seen everything," said Greg Hoffman, an off-highway vehicle coordinator for the San Bernardino National Forest. "This book takes the work out of exploring our mountains. It also helps keep misguided drivers on designated routes."

Maps designed with clear, simple graphics on a scaled grid make distances easy to estimate. Easy-to-ready symbols show the location of features such as hiking, ATV and dirt bike trails, picnic and camping areas, old mines, cabins and ghost towns, public toilets, scenic overlooks and major obstacles on difficult trails. In addition to a full map legend, each map includes a "Mini Key" for quick references. The back of the book has basic GPS information glossary, bibliography, full index and a list of handy addresses and phone numbers.

Wells emphasizes safety and courtesy in backcountry driving. He explains driving techniques, rules of the road, driving etiquette and safety precautions, including a list of gear to keep handy. He stresses the environment and low-impact use of fragile backcountry, detailing and reinforcing driver responsibilities.

The 286-page, 6"X9" book retails for $19.95 and is available at Barnes & Nobel, B Dalton, selected map stores and four-wheel drive shops in southern California. (Ask for ISBN #0-9664976-4-3). You may also order by calling toll free 1-800-222-7623 or write FunTreks Publishing, P.O. Box 49187, Colorado Springs, CO 80949-9187. More information is available by e-mailing books@funtreks.com or visiting the web site at www.funtreks.com.

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California Association of 4 Wheel Drive Clubs Inc
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8120 36th Avenue
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