We Never Imagined We'd See This!

Taking a chance and exploring new backcountry trails can often times lead to most incredible experiences and this year during Easter Jeep Safari I’m taking that chance. This is my second day here in Moab and while generally I stay close to town and hit the popular trails, I usually try to explore at least one place in the region I haven’t done in the past and today I’m doing something very different. I’m meeting up with some great guys and heading 80 plus miles out of town for the day for an adventure in the San Rafael Swell, a day I don’t think any of us will forget soon.
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[@bryanrogowski]

Thank you for teaching trail etiquette, a bit of history, and for your modest approach. In our boisterous world a modest and humble voice is appreciated.

[@samhouston5217]

He is calm and respectful. A sign of confidence, not insecure at all. Love that about his trail rides.

[@Roks4life]

The San Rafael swell area has been under attack in a land battle for closures. It will have large areas closed down just like areas around moab. We need more people to push back. We are losing so much public land in Utah to wilderness areas and then it will only be accessible by hiking and permits. There is soooo much history in the Swell.

[@richard-witty]

Yeah it’s a tough battle. Thankful Blue Ribbon and Utah Public alliance are fighting for us. I have mixed feelings about KZbin and social media, it’s great for making people aware of beautiful places but unfortunately the number of people visiting these places has increased greatly. The San Rafael Swell area has become so busy, not sure if that’s good or bad.

[@Michael_Tran]

We love that area too...San Rafael Swell is so underrated. The view and landscape is spectacular.

[@TrailRecon]

Truly spectacular!

[@JoseRodriguez-cx6st]

if you don't mind me asking what trail is that as we are heading to Moab with the family and would like to take the same route , my 2 little girls would love that view @@TrailRecon

[@TheStoryTillNow]

My favourite trail day in Utah yet! Too much fun. 🙌🏻

[@sonnicman]

Awesome you got to take part in this! BTW what rear tail lights are you running on the Trail Destroyer? I really like the look.

[@Mariposaland]

That is beautiful!

[@TheStoryTillNow]

@@sonnicman Combat Off-Road

[@TrailRecon]

Heck ya man, it was a great day! Thanks for leading and adventure I don't thing any of us will soon forget.

[@55YAMAHARACER55]

As a local, don't let the secret out. It is a great place that has started to loose out on access to some amazing places, much like what happened to Gemini bridges area. Respect the trails.

[@blcolon]

As always, thanks for taking us on your adventures.

[@Minnesota_Vance]

Shaun and Will are great guys, always upbeat and know what adventure means. Great to see the collaborations during easter Jeep Safari.

[@Venture2Roam]

We had a blast together n this trail!

[@beckygillaspy]

Great to hear that you're trying low-carb/keto! I think you'll love it. Also glad to hear that you're keeping the 392!

[@TrailRecon]

Day 13 now and I feel great! 27 days to go and then my plan is just to start eating cleaner and keeping the carbs low. Big plans for the 392!

[@blackpearlvoyager4174]

@@TrailRecon My January A1C was 10.5! Doc says I have to do something so I started a low-carb, low sugar diet. In 3 months I dropped my A1C to 6.6. doc is happy and so am I, but as an Italian boy I really miss my pasta 😞 but I do feel great! 🤙🏼

[@jeffking6672]

I've always loved that area. The first time I remember going down the "Behind the Reef" trail was back in the late 60's, when my dad took me all over that area in a Volkswagen squareback of all things. It was amazing the areas you could get to in that little car, especially with the help of a little rock stacking and a high lift jack. Now I cheat and either use a 4wheel drive truck or my UTV. It was a really remote area back in the 60's, the highway which became I-70 was under construction, but no I-70 bridges yet. The mines had been closed for awhile, and the National Parks in that region didn't get many visitors. Such beautiful country, which I've enjoyed exploring off and on for decades.,

[@jdii5698]

18:36 - International Harvester?? That's my best guess. Another great vid. 😎

[@blackpearlvoyager4174]

I agree, I'm old enough to recognize an old IH!

[@cwo8771]

Looks like you enjoyed your Doc holiday. Thanks for taking us along.

[@Dallas88888]

THAT, was fun! Thanks for taking us along!

[@karelandmark6111]

Thank you very much for your nice drone shots Brad !! It is really nice to see you have started to use it more and more. It adds a nice addition to you outside set-up shots and from your car's view. For me, it adds a lot to the nice nature presentation you do. I'm sure it takes a lot of time setting them up, so thank you very much for taking the time to do it !!

[@EricksonEtc]

I joined one of our local Jeep groups on a ride a month or so ago in the Swell, but north of I-70, through Fix It Pass. Spectacular country.

[@bluecruiser2019]

We spend a lot of time in central and southern Utah, but the Swell is probably our favorite areas, we spend a lot of time there! So many incredible trails and endless views😃

[@392shakedown]

@TrailRecon it'd be great if you did an episode to call people to action to protect our access to these amazing areas. Trail closures continue to threaten our public access and organizations like Blue Ribbon Coalition or other public land alliances need help getting the word out.

[@TrailRecon]

I've done (and will continue to do) some social media stuff about it and the Blue Ribbon Coalition is a great organization.

[@atom31b]

A few years back I made it out to Utah from PA. That section you talked about being a shelf road was all washed out and I had to turn around. This video depresses me but I hope to be back.

[@ShoerSolutions]

Thank you for including GPS coordinates. Really wish more would follow your lead on this.

[@johnellis6959]

If those views were that incredible on video, I can’t imagine what they were like in person. I hope I can make it out there someday. Godspeed.

[@brunnie]

The truck looks to be an IH, late 50s to early 60s vintage. Thanks for emphasizing Tred Lightly and Stay the Trail. Until next time... Travel safe.

[@TrailRecon]

Thanks for the info!

[@boudreau1020]

The Swell is under a HUGE threat of closing hundreds of miles of the roads. Did you know that before you went out there? I'm wondering how many of the roads you explored are on the chopping block. It would be a shame if you never get to revisit those.

[@christopherharris6005]

Awesome video as always Brad. Moab has some of the most epic trails and there’s always something new just around the next corner. Thanks for letting us ride along with y’all on y’all’s adventures.

[@rays3288]

Another nice video. 5 or less vehicles are the best trail runs to do. I've been in bigger ones, and it can take the fun right out off the adventure.

[@patonlashlee]

Im glad you got a Gladiator again I used to be in the Jeeps I've had several Jeeps but I lost interest and then when I saw your first KZbin video I gained interest in it again got old JK and then when you got a gladiator I got one too still have it was disappointed that you got rid of yours but I'm glad you got one now They are good vehicles thank you for the inspiration to get back into it

[@SIMAR68]

As it warms up here in Northern Wisconsin, I am getting excited about some new adventures and watching your videos just fuels the fire. Great show Brad

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you!

[@EngiTrek]

A bit different filming style and a back to the roots vibe that was a bit refreshing and enjoyable. Not even a single shoutout for a vendor product. My favorite video in quite a while. Will start prioritizing watching again. Love it!

[@Dowells_nest]

I did keto for about a year dropped 125 pds. Felt awesome just started again a week ago. It’s a great way to get healthy and feel energized by food instead of lethargic.

[@TrailRecon]

That's amazing!! I am just trying to get back to healthy weight, feel better and just quit filling my body with garbage food.

[@rickysoffroadrecovery]

We all love you Shaun your bad ass. 🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦 Come to Canada Brad. Shaun will take care of you. 🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦 Shaun is our Guru.🙏 YAHOO

[@Jan-pw4po]

TSTN is 1 of the absolute best

[@fm71450]

Dear Brad, we travel to the area you were in - from Tennessee - every year or so. The only thing one can get tired of is/are the remains of “bad behavior” - folks not “treading lightly” or indiscriminantly tossing garbage. Thanks for emphasizing being good stewards of this wonderful part of the West. As always, your videos are appreciated.

[@K5TAI]

Brad, that was incredible! Easily one of the most epic trails I've ever seen … thanks!

[@Dk-qf8dd]

Incredible scenery! Thanks for sharing 😎

[@TrailRecon]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@edwardsimmons3721]

Over landing in that area looks amazing.

[@machineryworking4589]

thanks for taking us on your adventures ! it would have had all of thr best KZbinrs! ❤❤❤❤

[@fscottgray9784]

A day without dust is even better. great scenery.

[@robertwhitemoto]

this may be some of your best scenery yet Brad...wow, thank you for taking us along !!!

[@overlandready]

the thing you picked up was a pre engage starter motor armature and bendix.

[@StlrNtn95]

Shawn, Will and Brad, all on one video?!! If Nate was there, it would have had all of thr best KZbinrs! 👏

[@Venture2Roam]

I wish Nate could have been there too. Love that guy.

[@StlrNtn95]

@Venture2Roam Definitely my top 4 YT channels right now.

[@dvl2o4]

Brad. Let me know when you come back to the swell. I will meet you anytime, out at the wedge.!!

[@olered7760]

Love your setup on your Gladiator narrow and tucked in so clean.

[@GoXplr]

That trail delivered like this video did !! Nice job as always. You never disappoint 🤟

[@TrailRecon]

Appreciate it!

[@mjo326]

I have been to Moab and really enjoyed it. I'm holding off going again until my very special Jeep build is complete.

[@antjuju9116]

Good stuff, Brad. Keep it up. Hard work and dedication makes a difference.

[@Venture2Roam]

Fantastic trail with good people! Had a blast man. Great vid.

[@TrailRecon]

It was a great time on the trail with you my friend!

[@mavrick561]

I Love watching your adventures, in the morning, while sipping on a cup of joe. Great video, as always. What amazing views.

[@d.r.buchanan2329]

Love that area from Wayne County originally my grandpa and his brothers ran Jeep tour out through Cathedral Valley for many years. A lot of the mining went on along the muddy river been all the way across that on a four wheeler kept telling my mom I pretty sure I could take the Jeep across this. They used to take 10 wheel dump trucks across that road and unload all of the uranium over in places where they could get easier, it is incredible. What is out there in the desert that hardly anybody knows about. always always love the desert Brad

[@Hlebanon]

I’ve drove the Temple Mountain trail from my home in Price all the way to Goblin Valley in a stock Wj without any problems. The Swell is very accessible and I hope more people can enjoy it for years to come.

[@jeepinwithjulia]

What a spectacular view!! I have been to Moab twice, but never EJS. I just made a reservation for 2025. I vote Will as best dressed off-roader :)

[@TrailRecon]

LOL! Will was the best dressed for sure!

[@Venture2Roam]

😂😂😂

[@plus790]

Made sure to question the width of the Bronco Raptor, but it's the Jeep that clipped its right rear wheel pretty good at 26:08.

[@gilbertferguson1685]

Thanks for a great video. Went to Moab for the first time last year and was blown away by the beautiful scenery.

[@rubiconadventurewithscotty3258]

Another great exploration - THX for taking us along. Perhaps next consider our 5 cliff systems of The Grand Escalante that not many know about. It has; A lot more of the super-colorful Chinle rock formation, better campsites, wild horses and is far lesser known. The virtually unknown Vermillion Cliffs have 3000ft cliff camping with panoramas that rival over-crowded Alstrom Point. Uranium mines, The Wave rock permit area and many slot canyon hikes.

[@TrailRecon]

Great info, than you!

[@richard-witty]

The area you mention is really cool. It’s definitely a very well known area as it’s so freaking hard to get a wave permit, hope the other ares don’t become over-crowded as well.

[@rubiconadventurewithscotty3258]

@@richard-wittyRoger that Richard, my 392 XR has been to all 4 Corners on the Paria Plateau in the Vermilion Cliffs. Lots of great rock formation just outside of The Wave. I like the North & South Teepees as they are the same Chinle strata just 1 KM East of The Wave yet just outside of the Special Permit area.

[@rubiconadventurewithscotty3258]

@@richard-witty I am planning an Overlander's trip to The Grand Escalante for the exhibitors Overland Expo next month

[@richard-witty]

Headed there this weekend!!

[@reneepowell8541]

San Rafael Swell is an amazing destination for adventure minus the crowds! Thanks for a great video that brings so many wonderful memories and makes me ready for new adventures!

[@TrailRecon]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@stephenlewis8143]

The Swell, spans N & S of I-70, with much variety on both sides. This video (excellent) appears to be in the S quadrant and within are numerous hiking, canyoneering & old mining claim spots. These areas are best approached in spring and fall, summer is too warm & winter (potentially) impassible. Nice having fellow KZbinr's, & being able to visit new country that catches your eyes and mind. If one likes to hike, look up Goblin Valley, Little Wild Horse, Bells; & Ding & Dang Canyons. Brad, thanks for sharing; I'm glad you had a good & safe day.

[@RanchoTexano]

Did Behind the Reef last September- it was breathtaking. Thanks for this video that rekindled all those memories. Spent 1 night there and it wasn’t enough!

[@TrailRecon]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@redbarry2540]

Looks like an amazing place and a great way to spend your time, especially with some friends!

[@explore_off_road]

Those "slabs shooting out of the ground" .. Ya, those were amazing. That's what I was thinking in that footage. It does look really cool. Mother Nature does some beautiful sculptures.

[@kmrenard]

As soon as I seen that breakfast plate I knew you were eating keto. I went full carnivore in Sept ‘23 and have lost 50lbs to date and all my health problems have been reversed. I hope you find similar success

[@TrailRecon]

Congrats on the weight loss!

[@CraigG21]

Wow - gorgeous scenery!!! Thanks for taking us along with you.

[@TrailRecon]

Thanks for watching

[@tmmcmill]

What an awesome trail. Would love to go there someday.

[@alfonsoolvera2596]

OMG. My two favorite KZbinrs make it a video together, nice nice and incredible view!!!!

[@GriffinConway]

Looks like a great adventure Brad! Thanks for sharing

[@BacktotheDirt]

What an awesome trail! Thanks for sharing!

[@PROXIMO22]

so beautiful. ive been to moab so many times but never made it to the swell

[@TammysTrailsNTravel]

absolutely beautiful scenery

[@janvandenberg2067]

Hi Brad Investiging into a jeep wrangler aswell think of the following mod's. 1) we still have diesel 2.8, changing pump to mechanical and taking es off with turbo control from England. 2) Standing correction and progresive coil shocks from Camil shocks 3) Remain with 15"rims and 31 " all tenían tyres from Yokohama geolander. 4) Flat fender plastic front rear not sure between bush wacker 5) Stubby custom tubular front and rear bumper made from aluminum. 6) upgraded driving lights LED and wiper blade with washing nozzles. Is there something I'm missing for now, our offroad condition very similar to baja

[@Rooftroop]

Been a minute since your last vid, good stuff as always.

[@Jjhdezjr28]

Awesome scenery , a must do trail on my next trip to Utah.

[@ricomacpherson6845]

It's fun to see your perspective

[@quinnmortensen1415]

That trail looks awesome. I have never explored the Swell, I just turn east at Green River, and head to Moab. I definitely need to go there. Great video.

[@DiroPhoenixFan]

beautiful 🌨️🌨️🌨️🌨️🌨️🌨️🌨️❤

[@tombuckley4600]

Man alive is that beautiful, that deep red is awesome, a few weather issues. But what fun, great group of guys and a great video as usual Brad, Loved it!

[@TrailRecon]

The colors were stunning. Thank you!

[@damnjustassignmeone]

You always have good vibes. Thanks for the video.

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you

[@garretlewis4103]

A truly awesome area.

[@TrailRecon]

It really is!

[@tumbes2000]

Great trip! Environment was amazing

[@pizzazzfilms2624]

Great timing on this particular video for me. We have an end of April adventure to MOAB and then onto the San Rafael Swell. Looks like we are in for some spectacular trail scenery. Thx

[@TrailRecon]

I hope you have a great trip!

[@KC3PLG.Kurtis]

I was wondering if you could do an updated video on communication with off reading.

[@carlosnsosa99]

Man you have the best life!!!!

[@garycloud9631]

That scenery was absolutely stunning!! I would love to take my 88 Silverado there but i'm pretty sure wouldn't make some of those tight turns and narrow shelf roads. Awesome video.

[@luiszapata7500]

My friend what a trail. I was hoping to make a trip to Utah to go wheeling for the first time all the way from Virginia here in the next 2 weeks and after watching your video and Shawn's that's the trail I want to experience. i would love to meet you guys and experience that trail with you guys but since you were just there, I may to wait till next year.

[@Jan-pw4po]

WOW Brad, the scenery was beyond beautiful, great video, Shawn and i live in the same community but i never see him because he is always out making great videos

[@TrailRecon]

Thanks! Shaun is on the road a lot.

[@dennydobson2754]

We spent a few days in San Rafael last year during Easter Jeep. It was beautiful! Moab is awesome but that area is our favorite area to wheel. Check out some of the offroad areas around Capitol Reef National Park if you get the chance. There is so much beauty in southern Utah! Thank you for sharing your adventures!

[@44apw44]

Perfect timing!! Heading out to the Swell next week for a 4-5 day trip.

[@TrailRecon]

Safe travels!

[@sonnicman]

So awesome you all had some time to experience the Swell. It greatly saddens me however to see how our Government is pushing so hard to close areas of the Swell down forever.

[@chadgraber4575]

Bring on the Hurricane motors.

[@lzjranchshiawathahideoutby254]

Great video! But please, as we locals have since the beginning of time pronounce it ---> The "San RAA-FELL Swell" NOT The San RAFAAEEEL... Swell. Thanks!

[@Hlebanon]

😂 My feelings exactly! I cringe every time I hear someone pronounce it San RafEE-aL!

[@jlautomotive6349]

What an absolutely EPIC video!! This place looks amazing and breathtaking all at the same time, love the work you do and I can’t wait to hit the trial myself this summer. This will be my first time off-roading and I can’t wait, currently my Gladiator is all stock but I’m hoping for improvement this summer. I’m curious to see how it will do bone stock (it’s a sport too… lol) Keep up the incredible work!!👍

[@stevetubo5531]

Awesome video Brad, thanks for the ride

[@TrailRecon]

Thanks for joining me!

[@DIYGUY_TY]

392 is my dream jeep and it sucks that I'll never be able to own one brand new.

[@Venture2Roam]

I absolutely love mine. Had so much fun with it in Moab.

[@DannyO0917]

Meh, where's the hellcat!

[@stevehori673]

Brad I love your enthusiasm when overlanding and that view was absolutely spectacular. When are you taking the van our again?

[@danielheideman576]

Incredible Video with Incredible Friends.. This was Awesome Nice Video Work

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you!

[@ricomacpherson6845]

What amazing spot thanks for sharing

[@robertherrmann4823]

We were out there the week before Easter. Planned on camping but wind and weather made a motel in Green River the better choice. Nice scenery as long as you view it from inside your vehicle.

[@TrailRecon]

I imagine the wind could be pretty brutal out there.

[@scottbartlett4853]

Gorgeous views Brad!

[@overlandready]

good to explore the nearly unexplored!

[@ChristineKenyon]

@trailrecon Brad, I have been Keto for five years, and it’s amazing! Incredible energy, and ease of maintaining my girly figure. I eat more protein and less fat than the standard Keto, and I eat only super clean foods. Enjoy your journey to better health!

[@TrailRecon]

Great to hear, I'm on day 14 and feeling great.

[@4WDisLife]

Great trail, I wonder if a 2021 tacoma with 32 inch tires no lift can do it?

[@GATORADDAM]

Looks like a great trail.

[@jam23r1]

That old truck that you couldn't tell the model of was an International Harvester

[@TrailRecon]

I was thinking IH, but couldn't be sure.

[@deansipe8334]

One of my absolute favorite areas in Utah! On my last trip there, I spent 4 days or so completely on dirt working my way from north to south.

[@DonAntero360]

I am big fan of your channel, following you since you started. I am going to Moab this weekend , I would like to do the same trail.is there anyway you could share all you adventure coordinates?

[@m.t.mobile]

Nice drive! Never know who you're going to meet there in Moab!!