# Whiskey 7 Backroads
> Join us on our overlanding and camping adventures on the backroads of America. Follow along on our blog as we explore the great outdoors in our Earthcruiser
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## Pages
- [2026 Rendezvous](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/2026-rendezvous-2.md) - We hope to see you at this years 2026 Rendezvous!!
- [Archive](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/archive.md)
- [Authors](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/authors.md)
- [Coffee With Brent](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/coffee-with-brent-2.md)
- [Contact - Leave me a message below, we try to respond within 24 hours.  Hope to see you out on the trails....](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/contact.md) - Hello, my name is Brent Conklin and I am the owner of Whiskey 7 Backroads. My wife Cheryl and I travel around the United States with our 2 dogs. We have an EarthCruiser EXP which takes us to some amazing places that are off the grid. Access all areas By signing up, you'll get access to the full arc…
- [Contribute](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/contribute.md) - We are looking for adventurers, wanderers, campers, bloggers, etc to contribute to our Blog. Please submit an article with pictures to brent@whiskey7backroads and we will reach out to you to handle the details. Subjects of Interest are: * Great Camping Sites * National Park visits * Adventure Rigs…
- [Ham Radio](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/ham-radio.md) - I began my Ham Radio journey in 2018. It was not my intention to become a ham for the hobby, it was to have emergency communications while out in the EarthCruiser. I took my Technician License on 10/23/2108 and soon began my addiction. On 2/19/2019 I graduated to General and on 6/25/2019 I graduate…
- [Specials](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/harvest-host-boon.md) - Get 15% off your Harvest Host or Boondockers Welecome membership by being a Whiskey 7 Backroads member. Click on the link below to get your special discount today!! Harvest Hosts Special DiscountBoondockers Welcome Special Discount
- [Membership](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/membership.md)
- [Shot Glass Membership Tier](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/shot-glass-membership-tier.md)
- [Store](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/store.md) - Whiskey 7 Back Roads - LogoUp Custom Embroidery PageWhiskey 7 Back Roads Whiskey 7 Back Roads Logo Hats and Shirts www.whiskey7backroads.com
- [Topics — Overlanding, Camping, Ham Radio, Montana Ranch](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/tags.md)
- [The Navigators](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/the-navigators.md) - We have 2 Australian Shepard's that I refer to as The Navigators. They go everywhere with us in the EarthCruiser EXP. Many times when its just me and the dogs we will drive until we get to a T in the road, flip a coin and go that way. The dogs have gotten us 'lost' many times but what adventures we…
- [Videos](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/videos.md) - 2022 Spring Desert Playlist 2021 Fall Foilage Playlist 2021 Spring Desert Playlist Single Headliner Trips
- [Welcome to Shot Glass Membership (1-2 people)](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/welcome-shot-glass-membership.md)
- [Welcome to Shot Glass Membership (family)](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/welcome-to-tumbler-membership.md)
- [Welcome to our Membership (free)](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/welcome-to-whiskey-7-backroads.md)
- [YouTube](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/youtube.md) - Whiskey 7 Backroads Youtube channel

## Posts
- [onX SOS: What It Actually Does Off-Grid (And What It Doesn't Replace)](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/onx-sos-off-grid-review.md) - onX added a $49.99/year SOS button to the same app you already use to plan routes. I walked the chain from button to coordinator — and checked it against the Garmin inReach I carry on every trip.
- [When an Oregon Fire Closure Hits Mid-Trip: A Couple’s Last-Minute Reroute](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/pnw-fire-closure-mid-trip-reroute.md) - A Stage 1 fire restriction, a washed-out forest road, and unhealthy wildfire smoke can blow up a three-week Oregon trip in a single afternoon. Here is what the couple did instead.
- [What I Wish Every July Overlander Knew About Monsoon Flash Floods](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/monsoon-flash-flood-overland-safety.md) - Southwest monsoon flash flood overland safety: the NWS TADD rule, watch vs warning, when to turn around, and a pre-drive checklist every overlander needs.
- [Backcountry Offroad Expo Comes to La Pine Oregon — August 1-2, 2026](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/backcountry-offroad-expo-sisters-oregon-august-2026.md) - Venue updated — the Backcountry Offroad Expo moves from Sisters High School to La Pine Rodeo Grounds August 1-2, 2026 due to fire activity. Same dates, same ticket codes (SISTERSFREE, CAMPING20), 50+ brands, on-site camping, and a Monday trail ride with Backland Adventures.
- [Warn R60-S Review: The 6,000 lb Winch Most Overlanders Actually Need](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/warn-r60-s-review-the-6000-lb-winch-most-overlanders-actually-need.md) - Warn's new R60-S is a 6,000 lb winch that costs less, weighs less, and is sized right for most mid-size and lighter-SUV overland rigs.
- [Why We Should Fly the American Flag Every Day, Not Just the Fourth of July](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/fly-american-flag-every-day-first-draft.md) - I am writing today on a topic that I have been saying for over 30 years. We should fly our flags every day, not just the 4th of July. I have 3 flags on flag poles and one flag wrap on the back of my truck. Hopefully, the info below will inspire you to fly a flag.
- [Overland Expo PNW 2026 Wrap-Up: Redmond, Oregon](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/overland-expo-pnw-2026-redmond-oregon.md) - June 26-28, 2026 in Redmond, Oregon. 300+ exhibitors, 220+ classes, and show specials with $5,000 off a Sandy Van build and 20% off Rhino-Rack and MAXTRAX. Practical first-timer guide with travel routes, camping, ticket prices, and the booth numbers worth lining up for.
- [Overlanding's $68 Billion Problem: Growth Eating Itself](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/the-68-billion-problem-overlanding-growth-crisis.md) - 28,500 people packed into one expo. $40B in 2026, headed to $68B by 2036. 14,000 acres outside Zion just closed. The industry is eating its own playground and most overlanders do not see it happening.
- [7,163 Miles in a Subaru Crosstrek on the TransAmerica Trail](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/transamerica-trail-subaru-crosstrek-7163-miles.md) - Andy and Mercedes Lilienthal drove a 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness 7,163 miles from the Atlantic to the Pacific on the TransAmerica Trail — 3,184 unpaved miles, 29 days, 39 reroutes, zero mechanical failures. A proof-of-concept for soft-roaders on the country's most demanding amateur overland rou
- [2026 Rendezvous](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/2026-rendezvous.md) - Hello everyone, this email is going out to all members (paid or not). It's time to start thinking about the 2026 Rendezvous at the ranch.
- [Meet the New Workhorse of Whiskey 7 Ranch](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/meet-the-new-workhorse-of-whiskey-7-ranch.md) - The Search Begins In April of 2025, I started to research and design a new truck. I have been driving a 2021 Ram Powerwagon 75th Anniversary edition that I really like.
- [2025 Rendezvous](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/2025-rendezvous-2.md) - Hello everyone, if you're getting this email, you are on the outside looking in!! In other words, you are not signed up for a paid membership.
- [An Adventure in Family History](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/an-adventure-in-family-history.md) - In the last four years, my wife and I have visited Echo Park twice. Located in the northeast corner of Utah, at the confluence of the Green and Yampa rivers, it has everything we enjoy in a park.
- [2024 Rendezvous Recap](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/2024-rendezvous-recap.md) - We hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving with their family and friends. I am writing this article the Saturday after Thanksgiving and realized I did not post the recap of the Rendezvous.
- [Top Reasons to Use a Composting Toilet for Your Camper or RV](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/top-reasons-to-use-a-composting-toilet-for-your-camper-or-rv.md) - Composting toilet for a camper or RV: pros, cons, real-world costs, and the 3 mistakes that ruin them. How often you empty it, what to do with the waste, and whether it beats a cassette toilet on a 2-week trip.
- [Rendezvous 2024 Planning - Zoom Last Chance to RSVP](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/rendezvous-2024-planning-zoom-last-chance-to-rsvp.md) - The Rendezvous at the Ranch is fast approaching. We are looking forward to seeing everyone this year.
- [Campsite Sense](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/campsite-sense.md) - Our return trip home from Southern California started in darkness. We wanted to outrun the traffic of Los Angeles and the atmospheric river of rain that was threatening to slow us down.
- [Rendezvous 2024 Planning](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/rendezvous-2024planning.md) - August is right around the corner, join us for a Zoom meeting to start pre-planning for the 2024 Montana Ranch Rendezvous. Even if you're not attending, please stop by to say hello.
- [Exploring the Grand Staircase-Escalante: An Overlander's Guide](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/exploring-the-grand-staircase-an-overlanders-comprehensive-guide-to-the-escalante-national-monument.md) - Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument overlanding guide: 1.87 million acres of slot canyons, slickrock, and dirt roads. Best routes (Hole-in-the-Rock, Burr Trail, Wolverine), when to go, and what to bring.
- [Overlanding and AI: A Journey into the Future](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/overlanding-and-ai-a-journey-into-the-future.md) - Introduction Overlanding—the art of exploring remote and rugged terrain in a well-equipped vehicle—has captivated adventurers for decades. From traversing desolate deserts to conquering snow-capped mountain passes, Overlanding offers a unique blend of freedom, self-reliance, and awe-inspiring...
- [Experience Parks on the Air (POTA) at the Scenic Indiana's Turkey Run State Park](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/experience-parks-on-the-air-pota-at-the-scenic-indianas-turkey-run-state-park.md) - By immersing yourself in the natural beauty and recreational offerings of Turkey Run State Park, you can enjoy a fulfilling Parks on the Air (POTA) experience while creating unforgettable memories amidst Indiana's scenic landscapes.
- [Avoiding the Pitfalls: Tips for Uninformed Travelers When Overlanding](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/understanding-the-challenges-faced-by-uninformed-travelers.md) - Don't let a lack of knowledge hold you back. Learn how to navigate state parks and BLM land with confidence while Overlanding as an uninformed traveler.
- [Unveiling the Mystique of the Superstition Mountains through Overlanding](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/unveiling-the-mystique-of-the-superstition-mountains-through-overlanding.md) - Discover the thrill of overlanding and camping with the EarthCruiser in the Superstition Mountains - an adventure like no other!
- [The Rendezvous 2023](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/the-rendezvous-2023.md) - As the weather starts to turn to winter, I am finally getting around to writing about the Rendezvous at the Whiskey 7 Ranch in August 2023. We had a great time spending time with old friends and meeting some new ones.
- [Camping, Exploring, and Traversing the Magruder Trail](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/camping-exploring-and-traversing-the-magruder-trail.md) - Join us as we take you on an exhilarating journey through the Magruder Trail, where three different vehicles embark on a thrilling camping and exploring expedition.
- [Unveiling the Thrills: Explore and Hike Nature's Wonderland at White River Falls](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/unveiling-the-thrills-explore-and-hike-natures-wonderland-at-white-river-falls.md) - Experience the ultimate thrills of hiking in the breathtaking White River Falls. Discover nature's wonders and create unforgettable memories in this outdoor paradise.
- [Wiggle Butts Gone Wild: Camping with Australian Shepherds](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/exploring-the-great-outdoors-with-australian-shepherds-on-camping-trips.md) - Discover the joys of camping with your loyal Australian Shepherd and learn how to make the most of your outdoor adventures with these helpful tips and insights.
- [Mobile Ham Radio Guide for Overlanding Adventures](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/overlanding-camping-ham-radio-adventure-mobile-hf-guide.md) - Ham radio for overlanding and camping: a hands-on guide to mobile HF and VHF setups, the best radios for overlanders, antennas that work on a vehicle, and how to use POTA from your rig.
- [Shafer Trail - Epic Off-Roading Adventure in the Canyonlands](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/off-roading-bliss-awaits-uncovering-the-beauty-and-challenges-of-shafer-trail.md) - Off-roading has become a thrilling and popular way to explore the great outdoors. The freedom of driving through rugged terrains and immersing oneself in nature's beauty is a truly unforgettable experience.
- [Overlanding & Boondocking - Camping at Grand Canyon North Rim](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/overlanding-boondocking-camping-at-grand-canyon-north-rim.md) - The North Rim of the Grand Canyon offers an unparalleled experience for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and campers alike. Boondocking, or dispersed camping, provides a unique opportunity to experience the area's stunning beauty in a more intimate and off-the-beaten-path way.
- [Grand Mesa Camping and Overlanding: Boondocking by Beautiful Lakes in Colorado](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/grand-mesa-a-guide-to-the-largest-flat-top-mountain-in-the-world.md) - Introduction If you are looking for a unique and unforgettable adventure in Colorado, you should definitely visit Grand Mesa. This unique natural wonder is the largest flat-top mountain in the world, covering hundreds of square miles and rising over 11,000 feet above sea level.
- [Echo Park, Utah: Discover the Hidden Gem of the American West](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/hiking-camping-and-more-exploring-the-wonders-of-echo-park-utah.md) - On The Go When traveling in our camper, Gretchen and I rarely stay in one location for more than a day. That trend must have originated from our backpacking days when we were always on the move.
- [Unforgettable Adventure: Discover the Beauty of Vermilion Cliffs Camping](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/vermillion-cliffs.md) - Vermilion Cliffs National Monument is located in northern Arizona and offers visitors a chance to explore a unique and diverse landscape. From its striking sandstone formations to its rich wildlife and plant species, this area is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Southwest.
- [Rendezvous Planning](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/rendevous-planning.md) - August is right around the corner, join us for a Zoom meeting to start pre-planning for the Montana Ranch Rendezvous. Even if you're not attending, please stop by to say hello.
- [Discover the Best Wyoming Diner on Your Blue Highway Journey](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/a-stop-along-a-blue-highway.md) - Intro Long before GPS units were used, Americans counted on paper maps to navigate roads. The major highways were printed in red with the secondary roads printed in blue.
- [Experience the Magic of Baja Mexico | Tour the Breeding Grounds and Kiss a Whale](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/baja-mexico-kissing-whales.md) - Crossing the border Our trip started in Sisters Oregon where I met Gary and Rick for our trip south. After a couple of long days driving to the border, we stayed in an RV park close to Tecate, Mexico, and met up with Ron, the fourth member of our convoy.
- [2023 Planning Meeting](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/2023-planning-meeting.md) - Get your calendars out and stop by to see where we are going in 2023. If you have any interested in joining us for some of the trips, please let us know.
- [Lawson Landing and Dillions Beach - Your Perfect Day Trip and Camping Destination](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/lawson-landing-dillions-beach.md) - The Famous Lawson Landing Lawson's Landing is a fishing and boating campground situated at the mouth of Tomales Bay, California. The Landing was first established in 1929, and the family-owned and operated campground has been running since 1957.
- ["Unleash Your Inner Explorer: A Guide to Overland Expo"](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/overland-expo.md) - A little Explanation I get a lot of questions traveling around the western United States about the EarthCruiser. Ultimately, all the answers and conversations lead to Overlanding....
- [Experience Bears and Fish at Alaska Brooks Falls by Seaplane](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/a-trip-to-brooks-falls.md) - Where is it? Brooks Falls is in the Katmai National Park in Alaska.
- [Upper Sunshine Reservoir](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/upper-sunshine-reservoir.md) - Where is it The Upper Sunshine Reservoir is located about 10 miles west of Meteetsee Wyoming in Park County. Hwy 120 runs north to south thru Meteetsee and connects Cody, Wyoming with towns further south like Riverton and Shoshoni.
- [A Parks On The Air Journey](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/a-pota-journey.md) - The Plan As the saying goes. It's not the destination that matters but the journey.
- [Discover High Rock Lookout: The Ultimate Hiking Destination in Lewis County](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/high-rock-lookout.md) - Where is it? Take State Route 706 towards the small town of Ashford and the entrance to Mount Rainier National Park.
- [Baja Travel Tips](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/baja-travel-tips.md) - Getting Started I remember the day well. It was a cold March morning in Sisters Oregon.
- [Pyramid Lake](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/pyramid-lake.md) - Where is it? Pyramid lake is 40 miles northeast of Reno, Nevada.
- [Lippincott Pass, Death Valley](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/lim.md) - Most people are familiar with Death Valley National Park in California. Some might even know about "The Racetrack".
- [A Journey from Tent to Trailer](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/from-tent-to-trailer.md) - (Part 1 of 2) Growing Up As a child, I grew up camping and traveling with my family all over the Southeast. We spent most of our time in and around the Great Smokey Mountains National Park.
- [Angels Landing at Zions](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/angels-landing-at-zions.md) - A few years ago, Cheryl and I took a trip to Utah to do some camping and hiking. We where at the North Rim of the Grand Canyon visiting the gift shop when I saw the shirt below.
- [Camping on the Moon?](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/camping-on-the-moon.md) - Camping on the Edge of a Crater An interesting site in the middle of nowhere Nevada Connie and I left Reno early in the morning and headed east on Route 80 towards Fallon, Nevada, then south on Hwy 95.
- [Montana Ranch (future)](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/montana-ranch-future.md) - I watched the sun go down past the distant mountains. The sky went from dark blue to an orange red with the clouds providing a silver outline.
- [Parks On The Air](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/park-on-the-air.md) - What Is It? POTA (Parks on The Air) is a part of Ham Radio that is growing in popularity.
- [Alstrom Point Utah](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/alstrom-point-utah.md) - How to get there The road out to Alstrom Point starts in Big Water, Utah. It is the starting point for trans versing the Grand Staircase via the Smokey Mountain Road.
- [Explore the Beauty of Steens Mountain - Overlanding, Camping, Trails, and Hiking](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/steens-mountain.md) - Our Journey Dinner was over and the campfire was beginning. It was an old-school evening.
- [The EarthCruiser](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/the-earthcruiser.md) - The Addiction Starts My Overlanding hobby/addiction started a long time ago when my grandma and grandpa took me camping as a young child. I loved the adventure of finding new places and enjoying the outdoors.
- [Lower Calf Creek Falls](https://www.whiskey7backroads.com/lower-calf-creek-fal.md) - Calf Creek is in the Grand Staircase and has 2 majestic waterfalls that you can hike too. The lower falls are the most popular and well known.

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