By Ryan Rutledge
Every spring, the red rocks of Moab, Utah, come alive with the roar of V8s, the whine of lockers, and the unmistakable crunch of oversized tires crawling across ancient sandstone. Easter Jeep Safari 2025 was no different—except this year, evolution was on full display. From changing wheel trends to trail tech innovations, and of course, the timeless camaraderie that defines this legendary event, EJS 2025 reminded us that off-roading is as much about connection as it is about capability.
The Tire Wars: 42s Get a New Home
For the last few years, we’ve seen a growing number of rigs—especially Jeep Wranglers—step up to massive 42-inch tires. With stock brake packages getting more robust from the factory, it’s not uncommon anymore to see daily-driven Jeeps on 40s or even 42s without major brake upgrades. But mounting these giants came at a cost: wheel size.
To clear calipers and maintain sidewall stability, many builders went with 20-inch wheels, a trend that has dominated recent builds. But 2025 is shaping up to be a turning point. Several top-tier tire manufacturers now offer 42-inch tires designed for 17-inch wheels, answering the call for better sidewall performance and increased compliance on the trail.
This shift is starting to reverse the 20-inch wheel trend. Hardcore wheelers know that more sidewall means better traction and smoother crawling—and now they don’t have to sacrifice brake clearance or run oversized wheels to get it. Expect to see 17s dominating the trail again, especially as more brands catch on.
New Builds and Familiar Faces
One of the most exciting—and eye-catching—developments this year was the rise of single-seat, four-wheel steer buggies. These minimalist, purpose-built machines are engineered for maximum maneuverability, often conquering lines that traditional rigs wouldn't dare touch. Watching these buggies twist, pivot, and dance through tight canyons is like witnessing mechanical parkour. They’re lightweight, agile, and bring a new level of excitement to the trails.
But while the hardware evolves, one thing stays constant at Easter Jeep Safari: the people.
Every year, EJS becomes a reunion. Old friends who met years ago on Hell’s Revenge or Golden Spike reconnect. Partnerships between brands, builders, and enthusiasts get rekindled over shared obstacles and campfire stories. It’s where deals get made, new projects get dreamed up, and memories are forged in red dust.
The Scenery Never Gets Old
Even for veterans of the trail, the Moab landscape never loses its magic. Towering red cliffs, sweeping desert views, and the unmatched glow of the setting sun over the slickrock make EJS not just a test of machine and driver, but a reminder of nature’s grandeur. There’s something about this place that pulls everyone back—year after year, tire size after tire size.
Looking Ahead
With technology advancing, rigs getting more capable, and the community tighter than ever, Easter Jeep Safari continues to be the pulse of the off-road world. Whether you're airing down 42s on 17s, testing out a new build with four-wheel steer, or just soaking in the views with old friends, EJS 2025 delivered everything we love—and more.
Until next year, Moab.