On a recent summer afternoon, the White Mountains Attractions team headed to quiet Dalton, NH for a rip-roaring adventure with TrailCraft. While this company offering UTV tours in the White Mountains is a relative newcomer to the off-road scene, it has quickly gained a reputation as one of the most exciting things to do near Littleton, NH.

We enjoyed our drive along scenic winding roads that turned from pavement to dirt, keeping an eye out for TrailCraft’s entrance (which is located near the northern end of Team O’Neil Rally School). While it already felt like a bit of an off-road experience by the time we had parked, the impressive UTVs lined up in front of TrailCraft’s log cabin signaled that next-level fun was just ahead.

We said hello to our guides, signed waivers, and selected helmets before heading over to the UTVs for a brief overview of the day’s excursion and how to operate a Kawasaki Teryx, our rugged ride for the day. The tour began with some practice driving along dirt roads and over simple obstacles, like small ditches and natural bumps in the trail, before heading deeper into the woods. While we had to holler a bit over the rumble of the Teryx, our conversation soon switched to laughter as we bounced along forested paths and enjoyed the dappled sunlight breaking through the tree canopy.

If you are lucky, you just might spot bear, moose, deer, or even a porcupine during your tour. While we didn’t see any standout fauna, the natural splendor of the northern White Mountains was scenery enough. We noted wildflowers and small patches of wild blueberries as we made our way up in elevation, splashing through mud puddles and navigating rocky, steep sections.

Towards the top of Dalton Mountain, there were two opportunities to stop and enjoy views of Vermont and the Presidential Mountain Range.

At both locations, we exited the UTV and walked a short distance to see the views. It’s not often that you can have a scenic overlook all to yourself – that solitude is another reason to appreciate TrailCraft’s private trail system. Here, we could simply pause and admire the prominent peaks while our guide Jason covered everything from local landmarks to standout stories from centuries prior.

Soon though, it was time to descend Dalton Mountain. The Teryx proved just as adept at tackling the gnarly downhill stretches as it had the uphill sections, and in little time, we were back out on the dirt roads, headed towards our parked cars. As we waved goodbye to our guides and made our way back towards Interstate 93, we felt certain that something was missing: the roar of the Teryx and the call of the wild trails.

Our recommendation? Book your guided 2-Hour Trail Drive with TrailCraft today! Just like us, you just might catch the off-roading bug.  

What types of UTVs are offered at Trailcraft?

Guests can choose between the 4-seater Kawasaki Teryx 4 SLE or 6-seater Kawasaki MULE.

How old do you have to be to drive a UTV at Trailcraft?

Drivers must have be 21 years old and have a valid drivers license. All riders must wear helmets and eye protection, which can be provided.

Is the guided 2-hour trail drive at TrailCraft beginner-friendly?

Yes! Trailcraft’s tours are beginner-friendly, and their guides will walk you through the basics of machine operation before you get in your UTV. Also, guides will be at the front and back of each group to ensure the group remains together and no wrong turns are taken. 

Does the TrailCraft tour have good views?  

There are several stops during the tour that offer breathtaking mountain views and a perfect spot for group photos or landscape photos. To access these scenic overlooks, guests will have to hike a short distance away from the vehicle. The tour also takes you through forested stretches filled with ferns, flowers, and wildlife, depending on the season.

How do I book a TrailCraft tour?

Book direct on TrailCraft’s website!

What other experiences does TrailCraft offer?

If you are serious about off-roading and want to test your own off-road prepared vehicle on challenging terrain, book a private full-day off-road course with one of TrailCraft’s expert instructors.

Team O’Neil Rally School, just down the road from TrailCraft, also offers an amazing array of educational courses. Book a 5-day rally school, their most popular and exhilarating course! Or wait for the snow to fly and hone your skills with Team O’Neil’s winter driving course.

Visit Team O’Neill Rally School’s website for more information on all their epic courses.