Overlanders Trisha Mills and Bill Carmichael awoke to a wall of smoke and heard windows in their second story dining room blowing out sequentially as the fire headed toward them. Four months after they purchased the heritage building—which included the historic Hitching Post restaurant and their living quarters atop it—caught fire. Little did they know then that adventures outdoors would help them recover from the fire.

Over the past decade, overlanding has evolved into a popular recreational activity or way of life. Following in the wake of its exponential growth, overlanding events have cropped up in the U.S. as a way to educate, celebrate and showcase all things related to the overland lifestyle.

Billions of granules exfoliate my dust-encrusted face. Weary and ready to cross the finish line after eight grueling days of competition in a 1,400-mile off-road traditional navigation rally, I look at my partner and our unconventional off-roader, Volkswagen’s new all-wheel-drive ID.4 electric crossover. It sits at the ready, quietly waiting for more off-pavement opportunities.

Volkswagen just released its latest all-electric auto: the 2021 ID.4 AWD sport utility vehicle. The German automaker’s goal with the ID.4 is to build a high-tech yet cost-effective EV that competed evenly with its conventional gas-engine counterparts. The dual-motor version is the first expansion of the lineup.

The persistent pressure of everyday commitments coupled with relentless concerns around the pandemic have caused Americans to seek freedom in camping, hiking, biking and everything in between. Nature-loving enthusiasts should be prepared when adventuring in the backcountry. These are the top accessories from the 2021 Overland Expo West.

Jeep fans have waited nearly four decades for a V8-equipped Wrangler Rubicon. For years they asked the automaker to give its venerable 4×4 more power. Finally, the automaker, which has been a pioneer in the off-roading and overlanding world for decades, delivered.

Despite a huge array of established automakers already pushing deep into the off-roading market, global chemical giant INEOS is trying its hand at manufacturing. It’s bringing market an “uncompromising” SUV with a back-to-basics approach to on-road function and off-road capability.

After 80 years, the King of the Off-Road is vying to maintain its cult following while it charts its electric future.

The 10-day, 1,600-mile race in the desert, starting next week, challenges body and mind and helps competitors find themselves.