THE MOJAVE ROAD the changes I've seen

[@Sergiop4x]

The mojave is great.. peaceful... Fairly easy.. long.. not alot of people. The new yotk mountains are great.

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

I ran the trail (partially and complete) about 5 times in a 2 year period. I was burnt out and didn't feel like returning. You described the trail perfectly, and I forgot about all that.

[@Pompomgrenade]

Returning to that bridge was freaking glorious. Good for you guys...🎉 Thanks for bringing us along 🤤

[@dtadventure4x4]

I did parts of the Mojave Road West to East in January. Such a beautiful place. Hoping to complete it next year.

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

At the end of the trail you'll come across the Colorado river. If you make your way on the east side of the river, there's some nice beach campsites.

[@siddheshrane]

I really like this channel. You can watch these videos for off road trip planning or just to enjoy as an adventure documentary. It's always a good watch

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

Thank you for the kind words Siddheshrane

[@softroadhaku]

Great video! Great storytelling. Very cool shot of the guy and the German Sheppard during the sunset🎥🔥🔥🔥

[@michaelharris1455]

Thank you for the current technical information. Neat video, thanks for sharing.

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

@@michaelharris1455 thanks Michael

[@coloradomallcrawlers]

Editing guide like videos is a pain, but it provides your community great info. Awesome job buddy!

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

Thanks Dewey!! I thought this video sucked (I still think I could have done much better), but I guess people can find value in a bunch of info :P

[@TerraFirmaX]

Dude I get it. We just did the Mojave Road over thanksgiving and shot over 600 clips. I'm overwhelmed with it all and don't even know where to begin. I started out at the colorado river and by the time we made it to the Mail box I already have an hour of content, and that's edited down. I got to start over and do a highlight reel i think. Thanks for you great videos

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

Thanks for understanding the struggle! I really under estimated how long it was going to take, I should have just continued on with my other trips I'm backlogged on. I'm happy I streamlined the footage down to 30 something minutes, my last video about the full trail was a 54 minute video. I wish you good luck with making your video!

[@TerraFirmaX]

@@JonDZ_Adventuring I watched your last Mojave Video, all of it. I feel like your videos on the Mojave transcend vehicle types. It’s about the adventure, the vehicle is secondary. That being said, we did it hauling Off Grid Trailers (OGT) trailers, which was a challenge. The mountain pass was the most challenging. I really appreciate your videos.

[@PatrickRich]

@10:30 - you should look into the RAM "articulink". They did a clever bit of engineering that allows them to get more flex out of the radius arm links they use up front. My 80 series is limited in its flex up front by binding on the radius arms, even with the front sway bar out. The Powerwagen gets around this without having to resort to the worthless for towing and stability 4 bar link as in the Wrangler. It also has a limited slip rear diff that is also hard locking. It's the only truck with this feature. They don't get enough credit for the powerwagen, its clever. Its still a RAM so, you know, small bits will break more often than a Honda or Toyota, but its good engineering.

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

I was impressed. If I ever bought a 3/4 ton truck, I think I'd want a Solid front axle like that. I thought it would do the worst on the rutted washed out hill due to the super long wheel base, but it actually did the best!

[@applesbighatranch6906]

Dennis Casebier's book "Mojave Road Guide", the history of the Road and the glorious Mojave is what piqued my interest in this high desert route. I have since joined the MDHCA/Friends of the Mojave Road but have yet to travel there. I do frequent other spots in the western-most Mojave closer to Tehachapi. I would like to comment particularly on the short segment (25:30) where three of your mates express there sincere thanks for the experience. Those are fine travel companions! Appreciative, respectful, considerate. You've some good friends, Jon. Cheers!

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

Thanks! I pretty much met everyone here from KZbin. This was my first time meeting the guy in the middle (owner of the Bronco). I love being part of the Overlanding community, and it seems that 99% of people I meet are so pleasant and kind. My only explanation is that I think the activity of overlanding requires a lot of patience and preparation. Inpatient Jerks don't really have a place here :P

[@applesbighatranch6906]

@@JonDZ_Adventuring You said "... I think the activity of overlanding requires a lot of patience and preparation. Inpatient Jerks don't really have a place here :P" and I must thoroughly agree. Been patiently prepping my rig for extended stays out in the middle of Nevada as well as the spots I now go to in California. It's been four years this month since I started with an empty 5' X 10' cargo trailer and it is now a 90%-complete, Baltic birch interior, solar electric power, diesel air-heated luxury bunk and galley on one axle. I have also added two windows, changed the suspension and added electric brakes. It will weigh +/- 2500 lbs all up. Tow rig is a conservatively-lifted F150 replete w/ recovery gear of every stripe. Hope to see you out there in '25! Cheers.

[@PatrickRich]

I found way better gas prices in Fort Mojave a few miles away, BTW. That Chevron is a rip. Plus you can get some things at the ACE in town or pick up groceries. Just a future tip.

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

Good info, thanks!

[@brohammer]

That was fun when I was able to join years back! Look forward to eventually joining you !

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

That was a really good time! The sand dune was so entertaining. I probably burned a quarter tank of fuel there. I was surprised when I finished with just a hair below half a tank. BTW, the closing footage had a 2/3 gas tank, that was after filling up 5 gallons from the rotopax.

[@SubUrbanNinja-EDC]

What a great adventure.

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

Thanks again!!!!

[@CuongNguyen-qv7in]

That’s an awesome trip.

[@Pompomgrenade]

Shoulder the 🐾beast 🤠

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

Haha! Looked difficult 🤣

[@timhardman4764]

Looking good John, excellent episode with fantastic scenery and advice doing this trail.

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

Thanks Tim!! I’ve been slacking a little bit, but started resuming the low carb diet a few days ago. Also about to go on my first ever back packing trip today.

[@timhardman4764]

@@JonDZ_Adventuring Good for you John. Pack as light as you can. Depending on how far you are hiking and elevation change, every ounce in that back pack can feel like a pound half way into the hike. This is the time to be a super minimalist. Have fun.

[@jimmykatsaounis3476]

Awesome content, informative, entertaining and down to earth realistic for regular folks.

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

Thank you Jimmy!!

[@alexhsu.explores]

Great video, Jon! It was great to relive it through your great documentation. 🙏🙏

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

Thanks Alex! I have to say, my camping lighting game has been pretty weak. I carry a little storage bag with a bunch of random lights from harbor freight, Costco. There was one night where I really needed long term lighting at camp to complete a trail repair and the only light that lasted was your circular Wagan tech light. It wasn't even close!! Thanks for that light!

[@alexhsu.explores]

@@JonDZ_Adventuringthat’s awesome! Good products certainly last!

[@juliusmakula1659]

What a great adventure!

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

It was Julius! Thanks for stopping by

[@RyboCollier]

I was there the week of Veterans Day and I was taken aback when I saw the fire damage to the Joshua Trees. Truly sad to see. One odd thing is we didn’t see a single person on the trail until we got close to the lava tubes. It was quite cold that week so I’m guessing people decided to stay home.

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

I wonder how the New York Mountains are looking nowadays. Did you check them out? That was my favorite part of the Mojave Road.

[@RyboCollier]

@ we skipped it this year because I could see the burn marks on the ground while using google maps. Figured it would be full of ash and probably needs a break from humans for a while to recover.

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

@@RyboCollier So sad. The Wife and I were able to land the epic camp spot up there, just a couple months before the fire. We hiked to the abandoned mine and hiked into the mine shaft.

[@davidle9752]

I basically did the same trail as you but in reverse 😂, so peaceful

[@scotttan6377]

Great episode - important tips for a Mojave Road trip

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

Thank you Scott!

[@PatrickRich]

I think we bypassed the Lanfair climb because it was closed at the time due to damage. Looks like a fun part of the trail.

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

It was a good section of trail. I feel that the camera really didn't capture the difficulty well, but atleast we were able to see a 3rd Gen Tacoma bounce around 😃

[@jaygomesphoto]

Commenting as I’m still watching 😅 Geez, what an adventure Jon

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

Thank you for the support!

[@ir8maverickmichaeljavillon306]

I missing this place Jon, i do remember everything that we went here the last time 🤙🏽

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

That was a good trip! I had such a good time on this recent trip, and my only regret is not spending more time out there. I might want to setup another trip after the snow season when there's more water.

[@ir8maverickmichaeljavillon306]

I’m gonna try to go on that trip next time. Just let me know ahead of time Jon. So i can set my vacation 🤙🏽

[@OverlandOverloaded]

Awesome trip

[@Pompomgrenade]

😂 Your videos are an amazing contribution to newbies and curious people. You obviously have serious driving skill and travel these places in modestly modified vehicles 🤙 super skilled entertainment🪄

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

Thanks for the kind words! I don't feel I'm that skilled of a driver. I drive on moderate trails pretty decently, but there's people out there that would put me to shame. Thanks though!

[@coloradomallcrawlers]

I really need to get further west and try some of the trails in your area! Great job buddy!

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

You have so many beautiful trails near Colorado, but the great thing about California is there's still a lot of trails opened during the winter time! Great time to visit!

[@coloradomallcrawlers]

@@JonDZ_Adventuringsince my 11 on, 4 off schedule is working out… I might head your way in 2025. I can add days at the end using single day vacation days to make the trails possible. Cali has some awesomeness!

[@efaroh]

This is one of your best videos! I'd love to go wheeling with you!

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

Thanks efaroh, we all communicate on a Facebook page called "crossoverlanding hub", you can join us there if you'd like

[@durtyflyadventures]

Great video jond. Brings back so many good memories of the 2 trips we did with you and the progression of vehicles we had. The subaru with our trailer was a hard time especially the beginning part (well the whole road). The xterra made easy work and wow it made it so much more fun because of less stress of worrying about the subaru and trailer. We made such good memories and friends on those trips.

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

Good memories indeed my friend! Now I need to make a trip out to Idaho to visit you and Nancy! Glad we all got to experience the New York Mountains before the fires.

[@vibolbou5903]

Totally nostalgic for the trips back in the day. Nice seeing David and his daughter. Good country folk!

[@duilioproni4672]

Beautiful trail!

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

Indeed!

[@paulny61]

Thanks for sharing this experience 🤘🏻

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

You're very welcome Paul! Thanks!

[@WolfOverland]

KZbin recc this video and now I’m subscribing. Great job! Even with a honda!! (I’m a 22 year honda master tec)

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

Thanks @WolfOverland and thank you to the KZbin Algorithm Gods as well!

[@PK.Adventures]

Great video, as always. I was wondering about how the water crossing looks this time of the year, but that just answered my question. since we're heading there next weekend. Thanks for the video.

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

Have fun out there!! The hole in the wall is definitely worth checking out if you have time. Aiken mine was a great campsite that sheltered us from the strong winds.

[@PK.Adventures]

@JonDZ_Adventuring Thanks for the tip. We will definitely check Aiken mine. It will be my first time in Mojave. Hopefully, my RAV4 can make it. 😁

[@no-lodesigns]

Great video! Super informative and I think I could do this trail having watched this video.

[@BrofessorDom]

Can tell you've lost weight. Good work, Jon!

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

Thanks Brofessor! 🙏

[@kentwilkinson5300]

Great trip thanks for setting it up

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

Thanks for coming out Kent!! This video took much longer to edit than anticipated, and I meant to mentioned that you were the first one to take on the Watson's Wash and took it cautiously. I planned to type out vehicle stats like I typically do, but I chose to cut corners just so I can move on with my life, haha. The impromptu trip was a success!

[@cdogg22]

I enjoyed the video but I disagree with skipping Fort Piute. It’s a major part of the history of the road as documented by Dennis Casebier‘s book about the Mojave Road. The Fort is only a few extra miles and is definitely worth it. I understand you only had two days and you have already seen it before, but it’s a disservice to discourage people to skip it (especially those who have never seen it).

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

That's a fair point. Fort Piute was mentioned by many people before me. I do regret sounding so harsh, you have a good point about it being such an important part of history, and in retrospect, I should have mentioned the Fort's purpose. Actually, I forgot up until your comment. If I remember correctly, the Fort was erected to protect the the pony express / mail routes.

[@cdogg22]

I did really enjoy the video. The 360 shots were especially pretty cool. I run the Mojave Road every December (next trip is coming up soon!) in my Raptor and I always appreciate seeing recent videos of the Road to see if anything changed or is closed.

[@VideosOffRoad]

Awesome video!!!

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

Ty sir!

[@SubUrbanNinja-EDC]

Dude, you should be getting millions of views. Unfortunately unless you are driving a meat head big foot jeep, people don't consider you a true off roader. They hate it when you show them that you can do almost everything their $90K Jeep can do in a Honda Pilot. LOL And 90 percent of the time, they are driving on dirt roads. LOL I much rather see a person off roading in a factory Subaru than a beefed up Jeep anyday. At least you feel you are watching something challenging. I have a 2023 Nissan Pathfinder I bought my wife in 2023. It doesn't even have off road tires as it is an SL. But I hope next year to take it on a trail. If you can, please recommend a trail for such a vehicle. Thanks for the video and all the hard work. Really enjoyed it.

[@dorknerd]

Ehh. Gatekeeping will happen no matter what you drive. Just get out there.

[@TerraFirmaX]

@@dorknerd yep

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

Thanks for the kind words SuburbanNinja! The new Pathfinder is actually very very similar to my generation midsized Honda. It has the ZF9 transmission (geared exactly the same) and it has a twin clutch rear differential. TFL (the Fast Lane Care KZbin Channel) gives it the stamp of approval for an AWD that shouldn't be restricted by the NPS. If you can lift it, mount skid plates and bigger tires, it should be a decent adventure mobile.

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

@@dorknerd Ain't that the truth!

[@TerraFirmaX]

@ I love TFL

[@lovelybali61]

How do you think a stock 2024 Honda pilot trailsport will do this?

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

Skid plates will be important. I've had a 3.5" lifted Ridgeline slam on a trail, which cracked the oil pan. Also, a full size spare tire is a must. The 2022 Passport Trailsport is the same as 2019-2024 regular Passports, nothing different. With skilled driving, you can probably scrap by (pun intended :P), but I'd recommend atleast a 2" lift. While a Passport only has 8.1" ground clearance, it has upper echelon "rocker clearance" at around 12.8", which is better than other AWDs. Utilize that rocker clearance! If you see an obstacle, driving over it will be the best option. Also another reason why rock sliders are important. Not many people have them. Traxda makes them.

[@peterchyla2892]

I think the question was about the 2024 pilot trailsport. I also have one. This channel should get royalties from Honda. It does have skid plates, pretty good tires, full size spare and cameras that help a lot with wheel placement and slightly updated AWD. The gear ratios are great for slow crawling.. which is necessary for any rocks because.. Ground clearance isn't great of course. The only part of the video that I think it would really struggle with is that steep downhill drop-off. Is that mandatory?

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

Ah, thanks for clarifying. I was just blazing through my comments and replying. Yeah, Honda designed the newer models to handle any level 3 moderate trail stock. Those are bash plates too. They’re designed to take a good hit better than aluminum skid plates. The AWD system is better. Has better brake vectoring on the front wheels. The only downside is the 10 speed can’t hold a gear, but I would imagine that trail mode would choose the most aggressive gear? Since you Guys own these newer Gen Pilots. But a Scangauge 3, it will show what gear you’re in. I’d love to see if it’ll hold 1st gear on a steep climb. On my passport, if I place it in S mode, it will start in 1st gear, but there’s times where I start a climb with let’s say 7mph. The ZF9 will not auto down shift when the climb gets steeper, so I’m left lugging 2nd gear. Going into SM mode (sequential manual), I can lock it into 1st gear proactively, and it’ll stay there. If anyone was ever crazy enough to take on Hells Gate in Moab, you’d want to be locked in 1st gear. (Professional driver took an older Kia Sorrento up there, with much less gearing).

[@user-tj3yi9zj4m]

i smashed the like button!

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

TYVM!!!

[@laborcreatescapital9483]

I don’t know how your videos don’t attract more viewers Jon. Love the pace, the explanations, the education, the honesty, the realness put forth. Sadly, our schedules rarely line up & that’s not likely to change soon or I would have joined more than one of your excellent adventures!!! And, I love when you include the kayaking & hiking.

[@Yettee0201]

33:35 didn't you skip the water crossing on your first trip though?

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

That's a good memory! During my very very first trip on the Mojave road back in January of 2020, we missed most of the points of interest (including the Mojave mailbox), and came across a very very deep Mojave river crossing. We then returned in August or September of 2020 and crossed the Mojave river just 2 days before the rail road company filled in with 4" rocks. It was more shallow by a foot, but still a good 3 feet deep in the center. We were told by the Mojave National Preserve that the railroad company did not have permission to fill in the river crossing. They were doing repairs on the train track, and that river crossing was making things difficult for them. I wonder how much trouble they got in.

[@OffRoadOverlandCamping]

The entire Mojave Trail is now a Toyota Trail now. You can do the entire trail in 2x drive. I've been all over that area, 10 years ago, the MJT will much harder. Not anymore.

[@darrylk808]

Sleepy? Haven't you downloaded the off-road self-driving software yet?😁 For those slot canyons, use the panorama setting on your camera and pan up.

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

haha

[@DesertGeezers]

Sure,Mother Nature is always changing the landscape, but a greater reason for more difficult conditions lies with the thousands of people that tear up the desert and destroy the habitat of native animals with big tires and modern machinery. As a lifelong resident of the Mojave I suggest that for real adventure you walk the desert. Then you'll have something interesting to talk about.

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

@@DesertGeezers we got out and walked, crawled and climbed.