Back in 1964, a small group of four-wheelers came up with the idea of creating a fundraising event for the newly formed California Association of 4WD Clubs. It would need to be a first-rate venue similar to the then-famous Jeepers Jamboree on the Rubicon. The chosen route was a long-abandoned wagon road from Cisco Grove, California (near Truckee), to the shores of Meadow Lake and the 1860’s mining camp of Summit City. The event was called Sierra Trek, and it would become one of the West’s premier destinations for family fun, great food, and some of the best trails in the country.

This year marks Sierra Trek’s 50th anniversary, and they are pulling out the fun factor stops. In addition to 11 four-wheel drive and ATV/UTV runs ranging from historic treks through the California Gold Country to a traverse of the infamous Fordyce Creek Trail, we’ve heard they might bring back Star Trek (a moonlight run on Fordyce).

Each year the Sierra Trek crew reconstructs the Summit City tent camp, replete with the Wild West Saloon, chuck wagon-style kitchen, dance hall, and three nights of live music. More contemporary attractions include a giant manufacturer midway with dozens of vendors, vehicle show, RC races, kid’s games, and a 4×4 ice cream truck. This year will also feature a special Saturday trail ride for Wheelers for the Wounded with a homecoming parade in main camp.

When the sun goes down and the band takes the stage, trekkers belly up to the old wood bar, share yarns around the bonfire, and the dance floor fills with boot-scootin cowpokes. On Saturday night, the raffle crew will be handing out more than $30,000 in gear from BFGoodrich, 4Wheel Parts, ARB, Raceline Wheels, Warn, and dozens of other vendors. The event takes place near Truckee, California, on August 10-13. Registration, which closes on July 28th, includes four days of hearty meals, trail rides, and all activities. For information or to register online go to www.cal4wheel.com.