As the weather turns warmer, the call of the open road gets louder. This is especially true where off-road trails are abundant. If you want to hit the trails this summer, consider visiting a truck dealer and checking out the 2023 Ram 1500 TRX.
The 2023 Ram 1500 TRX can take you from the highway to the hills in no time. With its 6.2L HEMI V8 engine and 35-inch tires, there is no terrain it can’t handle. Additionally, the four-wheel drive TRX has an eight-speed transmission and offers 702 horsepower, making it the most powerful truck on the market. Continue reading to learn more about the TRX.
Navigating Trails in the 2023 Ram 1500 TRX
Safety
In addition to the specs listed above, the Ram 1500 TRX is a safe vehicle to drive, winning the IIHS Top Safety Pick in 2023. The nod is partly thanks to the truck’s driver-assisted technology, including adaptive cruise control, braking, blind spot monitoring, and more. Each of these comes standard for the 2023 version.
Capacity, Connectivity, and Cargo
The 2023 Ram 1500 TRX is a crew cab, short-bed truck that has a seating capacity of five. All five passengers will feel connected in the TRX, with the 12-inch infotainment center and seamless connection to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The truck’s five-foot, six-inch long bed measures 53.9 cubic feet, bigger than its nearest competitors. Compared to the 2023 Ram 1500, the TRX is eight inches wider, offering stability and strength no matter where you drive.
Enjoy the Drive
With 11.8 inches of ground clearance, 13 inches of front suspension travel, and 14 inches of rear suspension travel, the TRX is prepared to explore wherever you are. The Selec-Speed Control helps keep your speed constant, regardless of terrain, by applying engine torque and braking pressure automatically, allowing you to concentrate on steering.
The 2023 Ram 1500 TRX has eight performance-tuned drive modes, providing the best horsepower, gear ratio, and torque split for handling varying road conditions. You can also tailor your TRX to fit your needs with available MOPAR accessories like the RamBar, beadlock-capable wheels, all-weather floor mats, and more.
Popular Colorado Trails to Enjoy With Your TRX
Colorado is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a network of off-road truck trails suitable for drivers of all experience levels and interests. Truck-friendly off-road parks and recreation sites are common throughout Colorado, including the ones listed below.
Gold Belt Scenic Byway
The Gold Belt Scenic Byway in Colorado is an excellent option if you’re searching for a challenging off-roading experience. Your driving abilities and truck capability will be tested as this gorgeous route snakes through some of the state’s most challenging terrain. The 135-mile Gold Belt Scenic Byway travels from Caon City to Cripple Creek, passing through a number of old mining communities and abandoned settlements. Most of the path is dirt and gravel, with steep inclines, abrupt curves, and stony surfaces. You’ll need to be ready for anything, because you’ll run across every surface from small boulders to loose gravel. Consider the following tips when heading to the Gold Belt Scenic Byway:
Select the appropriate vehicle: Low-clearance vehicles are prohibited on the Gold Belt Scenic Byway. A truck or SUV with a lot of ground clearance, four-wheel drive, and tough tires is required. With a clearance of 11.8 inches, your TRX is perfect for the task. Before heading out on the trail, ensure your truck is in good working order, and bring any tools or spare components you may need in case of mishaps.
Pay attention to the weather: Conditions along the Gold Belt Scenic Byway might change suddenly. Before leaving, check the forecast to prepare for rain, snow, or strong winds. Storms frequently hit the mountains between noon and 4:00 pm, no matter how nice the weather is in the morning. The terrain may become even more difficult due to these factors, so be careful to modify your driving style accordingly.
Exercise caution: The Gold Belt Scenic Byway has rugged terrain, so driving slowly is necessary to prevent damage to your truck, and to ensure you don’t get stuck. Use low range and move slowly, especially when negotiating sharp corners and inclines. Descending steep inclines can be challenging if the ground is loose or slippery. Apply the brakes sparingly, and utilize engine braking or Selec-Speed Control to manage your speed. If required, be prepared to downshift. The performance-based drive modes of the TRX can help you navigate the terrain.
Be prepared: You might lose cell phone service in the most rural regions of the Gold Belt Scenic Byway, requiring a paper map or a GPS that doesn’t rely on cell service. Bring an emergency supply kit, extra food and water, and any other items you might need.
The Gold Belt Scenic Byway offers a demanding but rewarding off-roading adventure for drivers in the right vehicle and mindset. To stay safe and make the most of your experience, be ready for uneven terrain, erratic weather, and difficult driving conditions.
Lizard Head Pass
Southwest Colorado’s San Juan Mountains contain the stunning and picturesque Lizard Head Pass, presenting difficult off-road truck driving conditions. It takes talent and experience to handle the area’s steep inclines, winding trails, and rocky terrain.
Off-roading challenges: Drivers must be adept at negotiating challenging terrain to travel through the high-elevation area of Lizard Head Pass, home to steep inclines, abrupt curves, and narrow trails. Additionally, breathing might be difficult due to the high altitude, which can be particularly tough for drivers not accustomed to this kind of elevation.
Challenging weather: The weather might be a problem when off-roading in Lizard Head Pass. The region is renowned for an abruptly shifting climate, including frequent afternoon storms. It’s a good idea to consistently monitor the weather and your time to ensure your safety.
Have one of your passengers be a spotter: Having a spotter who can stand outside the vehicle and help guide you through challenging trail portions when crossing difficult terrain is often beneficial.
Be Aware of Your Environment: It’s crucial to be mindful of your surroundings and potential dangers like loose rocks, steep drop-offs, and other obstructions when off-roading in Lizard Head Pass. Always watch the trail, and be ready to move immediately if an unforeseen impediment presents itself.
Off-roading at Lizard Head Pass is an exciting experience you can safely enjoy in your 2023 Ram 1500 TRX as long as you’re prepared. While there, don’t forget to take in southwest Colorado’s breathtaking landscape.
St. Elmo
Like the other two trails, the terrain at St. Elmo is complex and challenging. In addition, regular height fluctuations between 8,000 and 13,000 feet make for some breathless ascents and descents. The trail’s terrain, including rocks, boulders, and loose gravel, requires precise driving abilities to negotiate effectively.
Make sure your TRX is ready to go: It’s important to ensure your truck is in good condition and that you’ve kept up with preventative maintenance for any adventure you tackle. Before going off-road, inspecting your tires, brakes, and suspension is essential.
Know the trail: Before you begin, become familiar with the trail. Knowing the layout of the route is important, as well as knowing where any inclines or curves with sharp turns are located. Always check the weather forecast to avoid unexpected changes in trail conditions caused by rain or snow.
Take it easy: Speed is not your friend when off-roading at St. Elmo’s. When approaching barriers or steep inclines, go slowly and steadily. You’ll be able to stay in charge of your truck and make wiser decisions when you drive at a steady pace.
St. Elmo’s off-roading is not for the timid, but with planning and caution, it can be a very rewarding experience. Always be mindful to leave no trace behind and respect the trail. Be safe, but have fun!
Off-Roading With Your 2023 Ram 1500 TRX
The 2023 Ram 1500 TRX is an excellent choice if you want responsive maneuverability, comfort, and the power to go further than the pavement. When choosing your TRX, consider your options for accessories as well. Once you’ve found the right TRX, the next thing to do is research a few trails and get in touch with nature.
When you’re back in town, don’t forget to follow regular scheduled maintenance to keep your TRX ready to go. The better prepared you and your truck are, the more adventures you can have together.
