First time at Hollister (and off roading)

Hi All,
I want to take my 2018 TRD Off Road to Hollister but dont want to worry to much about damaging it (is that possible?). I haven't taken it off road (got in Nov 2021) and haven't driving off myself (besides one time on Lani).

Any advise of trails? Is it a big deal if I go by myself?

Thank you in advance

 

I don't know about Hollister in specific, but I DO know it's a very bad idea to go off-roading alone. You should ALWAYSS have someone along to at least call for an ambulance in an emergency. Have communications with them, too. CB radios, walkie talkies, something.

That's at the very least. I won't get into spare parts, tools, rescue gear, survival gear suitable to the environment, etc etc. You should carry a lot of that stuff on a daily basis, in any event.

I do wish you all the pleasure in using your 4Runner off-road, though. I just want to ensure you'll continue to do so.
Pat☺

 

You can damage your vehicle driving on the street. Be smart, company always makes it safer/better, know your limits.

 

Thank you all!!

 

Try to find some vids of the trail. Gotta be something out there.

 

Definitely go with a friend or group, if possible. Some basic recovery gear is good to have. Take it slow. Get familiar with the different 4WD modes, and how to engage/disengage them. I have learned the most when I went with friends.

 

Hollister has a good amount of traffic around the park. If you choose to go alone and it's your first time, stay on the green trails, those are all basically flat and wide. There is also a couple of playgrounds in the park. One is the main one and larger of the two, so it is safe to go there on your own as there are others that are always there. If it is your first time, avoid the log/mud pit, good chance you will get stuck.

There is a a blue trail (Mcray) that is not terribly technical, and that will take you up to Hector Heights which is the main lookout at Hollister. It's about 30-45 min up the mountain. Just be aware of trail etiquette like when people are coming the opposite direction. Always let them know how many people you are with and behind you. People coming up the hill have the right of way so try and move to the side to let them pass, however, sometimes they will let you pass if they have more space to move to the side and you are on the drop side. Don't go too early as you want to make sure the park isn't empty if you're going alone.

Other than that, bring an air down tool, air compressor, some snacks, drinks, and have a great time!

 

Thanks! Getting some friends together and waiting till it drys out a bit

 

i'm new to my 5th gen, and interested in a possible trip to hollister.

 

Awesome! I'm talking with buddy this weekend about when we might go in early to mid May.At his point waiting for it to dry out a bit.

 

Just got a '19 and wanted to check out Hollister. Did you end up going?

 

Some trails are very narrow there with spikey branches that will scratch your truck. The trails will be one way so can't really turn around or back up. I have scratches from Hollister. Main roads there are fine. Few of the side roads will scratch your truck.

All the trails seemed easy enough.

 

looks like its currently closed but due to open this week, i'm planning on stopping in when i head to the bay area to see my parents in may. anyone that heads out there soon give us an update!