The unmarked roads, narrow lanes, jagged rocks, and muddy sinkholes of backcountry driving routes require a special skill set.

• Brake for climbers. Vehicles traveling uphill have the right of way—it's easier to get started again when driving downhill.

• Use your feet. If you can't see over your hood, get out and scout, or have your passenger step out and direct you.

• Aim high. When driving irregular roads, steer your tires high. Tracking rubber over the tallest objects will protect your underside from scrapes and bangs.

• Be prepared. Bring a shovel, tow straps, an all-terrain spare, tire sealant, a jerry can full of gas, engine oil, a foldable saw, and a basic tool kit (with extra hose clamps and other parts that could rattle off). Pack plenty of water and a ready-to-go backpack for an emergency hike out.

• Get a grip. To prevent jerk-induced sprains, keep your thumbs on the outside of the steering wheel.

• Master route-finding. Detailed topo maps and a GPS unit are must-haves on any long off-road trip. To piece together their border-to-border odyssey, Charles Graeber and Bree Fitzgerald used DeLorme topographical maps, a Garmin GPS V ($375; www.garmin.com), and, most important, charts and GPS coordinates provided by avid dual-sport motorcyclists Jerry Counts and Dave Hutchens. The two bikers have spent more than a decade exploring Western roads to pioneer their all-dirt border-to-border route. Each spring and summer, they lead organized trips for motorcyclists along its length (www.mex2can.com).

• Want to learn more? Check out Bill Burke's 4-Wheeling America Driving School ($345 for a two-day course, vehicle not included; www.bb4wa.com) or Overland Experts ($700 for one day, including vehicle; www.overlandexperts.com).

From the print edition, August 2004

Wild Roads Special: The Best of the Backcountry

Stomping Grounds: The clash of man and elephant in northeast India

The Vanishing World of Lonnie Thompson: How glacial ice cores are unlocking the mysteries of global warming

Pelton's World: Dealing with a medical emergency overseas