Green Zebra Takes Off Roading - Dust n' All - to Snowshoe, West Virginia

Having just returned from a day with Green Zebra Adventures in the sunny (and dusty) seaside resort of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, we were delighted to see that they have opened up shop right here in West Viriginia. Green Zebra has partnered with Intrawest Resorts, who manage the Snowshoe Mountain ski area, to bring their fun off-road day trips to a second US location (the first is in Scottsdale, Arizona.)

The company markets fun, guided, off-road excursions  in resort areas around the world that allow adventurers to get up close to nature on dirt trails and in the wilderness. Many outings include a lunch stop or other break, when drivers can take turns or ask the guides questions. Green Zebra drivers must be licensed and ages 16 and up to operate their sporty ATV's.  

Although the Mexico operation suggests age 6 for their smallest passengers, in West Virginia, Green Zebra will accept 4-year-olds, who can ride with licensed drivers in the front or back seat. Green Zebra operates an unusual Tomcar (a compact, lightweight, four-wheel drive, dune buggy-style vehicle) that was built for the Israeli military with a wide wheelbase, making it very safe to operate. There are seatbelts for all riders; however, no helmets are required -- or provided -- to participants.

The mountainous Snowshoe terrain provides lots of rugged fun and tours there will operate through October 2010, so families can enjoy the region's beautiful fall foliage. Be warned:  We especially like rainy days for this outing, because occupants in the two-seat or four-seater vehicles get splashed with mud. If that doesn't sound like fun, be sure to wear some old clothes!

Green Zebra is currently offering guided, off-road excursions through the rainforests, mountains and desert terrain of Aruba in the Craibbean; Los Cabos in Baja California; and on the island of Puerto Rico; in addition to Mexico and Arizona. Their Tomcar tours can be booked through the Green Zebra website or by calling 866/703-2622.

While prices vary per market, the Snowshoe location offers a variety of options, ranging from $59 for the backseat of a four-passenger vehicle to $169 for a single driver, solo ride.

Pricey, true; priceless, even more true.

Photo of author by Ivan Quintanilla