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Quinton Neufeldt photos
Introducing the CO4x4
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Quinton Neufeldt photos
Introducing the CO4x4
Spring and Fall create challenging muddy obstacles on these dedicated off-road trails.
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Quinton Neufeldt photos
Introducing the CO4x4
Ontario offers both muddy and rocky terrain.
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Quinton Neufeldt photos
Introducing the CO4x4
Did we say it can get muddy?
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Quinton Neufeldt photos
Introducing the CO4x4
The Jeep contingent with Trail Guide Quinton’s '86 CJ7, ready to lead the way.
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Quinton Neufeldt photos
Introducing the CO4x4
Here’s Al helping get a helping strap hooked up to give Graham a pull.
Story & photos by Quinton Neufeldt
Central Ontario 4x4 Club (or CO4x4, as we’re known) has been meeting and conducting club events, such as trail rides and rallies, for over 35 years. Started as the Central Ontario Jeep Club, the name was later changed to include all makes. Over the years, different trends in ‘four wheeling’ have come and gone, as well as swings in the economy and other changes. However, one thing that hasn’t changed is people getting together to meet, talk about and get out and use their 4WD vehicles.
One way of reaching out to the broader community is through the club’s long standing relationship with the ‘Toronto Sportsman’s Show’. Each year for as long as I can remember, Bobby and a bunch of club volunteers, organize the setup, display and tear down this show. This is a high profile (and visibility) event where the club gets a chance to meet and talk with various other outdoor enthusiasts. Kids always love to see the 4x4’s on display that have really been used on trails.
Like other parts of Canada, central Ontario sees a wide range of weather, and types of terrain. Trail riding season usually runs from May through October. The club tries to have at least one or two scheduled Trail ride events per month (usually on a Saturday) for these months.
In May, conditions can be wet. The areas north and east of Toronto are nice and rugged with rocks, bogs and lots of standing water on trails. For those who live in the city, getting out and exploring Ontario’s backcountry is a wonderful break from the daily grind. Some of Central Ontario’s most well know trails are in the Bobcaygeon Area. Club member’s vehicles range from new to old, stock to modified.
We often meet at a designated parking lot on Saturday morning before heading to the trail area. Here we have a short drivers meeting, say hi, and get anything we need from the stores nearby. The trail leader explains the route, and answers questions (and hears feedback) about what to expect for the day. Everyone must also sign a waiver form, which is required by the club’s insurance.
Once out on the trail, the drivers choose their own line. It’s important to note, even though it seems like the middle of nowhere, Ontario traffic (and other) laws still apply, so be prepared as in some occasions OPP or MNR staff are out patrolling.
Summer can be the nicest time on the trail. But don’t forget bug spray. Mosquito’s, black flies and other insects are often found. We usually take a stretch break or stop for lunch and get a chance to see some significant natural features. Black River Rapids for one is a great place to stop. In some places the Canadian Shield is so smooth you would think you were on pavement.
To top it off wheeling is always fun here. It’s refreshing to stop in a clearing to air down tires, and take the doors off. Summer can be a chance to get through some of the more difficult or challenging areas, since a lot of the standing water has dried up.
Later in the season, September and October, the watery mud of the spring returns to the trails. With the leaves changing colour, cooler weather, and fewer bugs, it provides its own unique and fun experience.
Of course winching and tugging when needed are part of being a club (believe it or not). Jeremiah’s ‘99 F-350 on 37’s needed a winch from Dave’s Jeep TJ Rubicon, after his winch control pack gave up.
Happy trails and look forward to seeing you out there next time. For more information look up the club at www.co4x4.com or www.facebook.com/co4x4