FAQ
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What is the Sierra Nevada Off Road Academy?
Sierra Nevada Off Road Academy (SNVORA) offers professional instruction to help drivers build confidence, safety, and technical skills off-road. Our Hollister events are entry-level trainings open to all 4x4 and AWD vehicles, including EVs. You’ll learn from seasoned instructors with decades of experience in off-road driving, recovery, and trail leadership.
Topics covered include:
-Trail etiquette and safety basics
-Vehicle setup before hitting the trail
-Reading terrain and approaching obstacles
-Understanding your vehicle and how it performs
-Q&A sessions with instructors -
Who can attend, and what about passengers?
Drivers & Co-Pilots: Must be 18 or older.
Passengers: The first passenger is $200; additional passengers ride free.
All participants and passengers must be registered at least 7 days prior to the event. (please email if inside this window)
No on-site changes are allowed.While we love pets, they are generally discouraged for a training day.
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What should I bring?
Your registered 4x4/AWD vehicle (EVs must arrive with ≥50% state of charge)
Lunch, snacks, and plenty of water (no alcohol permitted)
Layered clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent
A camp chair for lunch break
Optional: personal recovery gear, radio, or tire gauge (not required – we’ll provide recommendations during class so you know what’s worth buying)
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What’s your refund and transfer policy?
30+ days before event: Full refund.
Within 30 days: No refunds, but you may transfer your registration to another SNVORA event within 12 months.
Registration cutoff is 7 days prior for drivers and passengers.
No on-site registrations, additions, or changes.
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What about my vehicle?
Eligible vehicles: Any 4x4 or AWD vehicle (Jeep, Rivian, Toyota, Bronco, Land Rover, SxS, etc.).
No modifications required: Stock vehicles are welcome.
Advanced or specialized events may list equipment requirements in the future.Vehicle damage: Off-roading involves inherent risks. Our instructors will do everything possible to help you avoid damage, but any vehicle damage is the responsibility of the owner and their insurance. SNVORA carries liability insurance for the event but does not cover participant vehicles.
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What’s the schedule for a group class at Hollister?
A typical Hollister one-day training runs:
8:30–9:00 AM – Check-in (light refreshments) & orientation
9:00–9:30 AM – Safety briefing & basic overview
9:30–12:00 PM – Morning trail ride with instruction
12:00–1:00 PM – Lunch break and Q&A
1:00–2:45 PM – Afternoon trail ride and skills practice
2:45–3:00 PM – Wrap-up and farewells