Recovery + Trail Leader
This is our most complete off-road class: two full days at Hollister Hills SVRA that take you from leading a group to getting one unstuck. Day one is Trail Leader, where you learn to run a safe group: driver's meetings, trip planning, radio communication, spotting, and taking the lead and tail roles on real obstacles. Day two is Recovery, where you work hands-on through the fundamentals of getting a vehicle unstuck, including the physics behind kinetic recovery and how rigging works, with all the gear provided. Groups stay small across both days. You'll leave able to lead a run and handle what the trail throws at it.
What to bring
- Driver's license
- Proof of insurance
- Water and a packed lunch
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
- Closed-toe shoes
- Work gloves - required for recovery classes
- A camp chair (optional)
All participants sign a liability waiver - you'll review and sign it during booking, or read it here first.
Good to know
- Cell service is limited - save your GPX map offline before you arrive
- Class runs rain or shine (we only stand down for genuine safety)
- It's a full day outside
- Radios are provided for class
- All needed gear is provided - bring your own recovery gear if you'd like us to look it over
Meeting point & logistics
- Meet 8:30 AM at Mudstone Ranch (6307 Cienega Rd, Hollister), then caravan to the Main Entrance (7800 Cienega Rd).
- A $5 Upper Ranch day pass is required - your lead instructor covers it. Ask for a paper map at the gate.
- Final meet-up point: the Old Oak Tree, Upper Ranch.
- Been to Hollister before? You can skip the caravan and meet the group directly at the Old Oak Tree in the Upper Ranch - just let us know ahead of time so we aren't waiting for you at Mudstone Ranch.
- Arrive with at least a half tank of fuel or 50% state of charge (a Tesla Supercharger is about 8 miles away).
- We wrap up around 3:00-3:30 PM.
- These meet-up and wrap times are for each day.
Small groups fill quickly.
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