The Road To Relic Run

Part 3: Vintage overlanding in Wyoming

- Verne Simons

In Part 1 of The Road to Relic Run (Aug. '22), we documented how we combined two Intermediate CJ-5s into one. In Part 2 (Sep. '22), we reported on the overlanding trip to the event, from a suburb of Phoenix to southern Wyoming. And while the trip began with some drama (we blame the heat and a dubious repop temp sender and gauge), the rest of the trip-despite a few hiccups along the way-was downright pleasurable. And the 2021 Relic Run event was a pleasure, too.

The Relic Run is a vintage overland event hosted by Expedition Utah. Relic Run is best described as an assemblage of old off-road vehicles (mostly 1989 and earlier), camping gear, family fun, and more. Relic Run is about vintage 4x4s, but also about old-school off-roading, camping, and generally paying homage to off-road enthusiasts of the past century. The three-day event is about getting to the new-every-year base camp, hanging out with friends on a trail ride, and convening with friends and like-minded vintage overlanding and camping fans. Bonus points are awarded (hypothetically) for period-correct vehicle modifications and camping gear. You wouldn't believe the stuff Relic Run participants bring along to give the event that vintage touch, from old camp stoves to lanterns and more.

Day 1

The first day of Relic Run was a trickle-in day. Folks arrived, hung out, and got comfortable in the amazing campsite on the Wyoming side of the Flaming Gorge National Recreation area. Old friends reunited while new acquaintances were made over a common interest in vintage overland 4x4s and camping gear.