At Virginia Off-Road, we believe that every trail tells a story. Whether you’ve tackled rocky switchbacks in your Toyota 4Runner, splashed through deep water crossings in a Land Rover Defender, or crawled up a steep Virginia ridgeline in your Ford Bronco or Jeep Wrangler—those moments matter. That’s why we created the Trail Badge Program, a way to celebrate your off-road accomplishments, recognize the trails you’ve completed, and proudly display your journey, one badge at a time.
What Is the Trail Badge Program?
Inspired by similar ideas like Jeep’s Badge of Honor program, our Trail Badge Program is a growing initiative that awards custom-designed, high-quality badges for specific trails in Virginia. But unlike programs that only cater to one brand of vehicle, our badge system is for everyone—whether you’re driving a Tacoma, Gladiator, Cherokee, Bronco, Frontier, Xterra, Defender, GX470, or anything else built to get off the pavement and into nature.
Each badge represents a specific trail featured on VAOffRoad.org. Once you’ve completed that trail, you can order a badge and proudly display it on your rig, toolbox, roof rack, rear window—wherever you want to show off your achievement.
Why We Created the Program
There are a few reasons this program exists, and they all center around community, recognition, and supporting our mission.
1. Celebrating Trail Achievements
Every trail is different—some test your gear, some challenge your skills, and some reward you with breathtaking views at the summit. We wanted to give off-roaders a way to mark their accomplishments, like a stamp in a passport. These badges aren’t just souvenirs; they’re symbols of effort, determination, and adventure.
2. Building a Unified Off-Road Community
So many badge programs are limited to specific brands—mostly Jeeps—and while those are awesome, we saw a need for something inclusive. Our trails are for every capable 4WD rig, and so are our badges. Whether you drive an old-school Montero or a brand-new Bronco Raptor, you’re welcome here. This program brings everyone together under a shared love for off-roading, regardless of badge on the grille.
3. Supporting the Future Off-Road Park
While we strive to keep the cost of each badge low, the reality is there are material and production costs involved. The few dollars you spend on each badge not only cover those costs, but help us raise funds toward the development of Virginia Off-Road’s first off-road park. This park will be a major asset to our community, offering controlled access to trails, training grounds, obstacle areas, and family-friendly spaces for off-roaders of all levels.
So when you purchase a badge, you’re not just celebrating where you’ve been—you’re investing in where we’re going.
How It Works (Honor System Style)
The program runs on the honor system—because off-roaders know what integrity means.
We trust that if you’re claiming a badge, you’ve done the trail. There’s no complicated sign-in, check-in, or verification process. No photos or timestamps needed. Just choose the trail badges you’ve earned and order them from our badge shop on VAOffRoad.org.
We’re currently adding new trails and badge designs regularly, with a focus on the most popular and scenic locations across Virginia—from Bald Mountain, Bobblet’s Gap, and Potts Mountain, to Flagpole Knob, Crabtree Falls, and Second Mountain Jeep Trail.
When you complete one of these trails, go to the Trail Badge page, find the matching badge, and grab one for your collection. You’ll be able to see a preview of what it looks like, read some trail stats, and even get tips on where others are mounting theirs.
Where to Mount Your Badge
Where you put your trail badge is totally up to you, but here are some popular ideas from our members:
- On the fender or side panel (similar to factory badges)
- Rear window or quarter glass
- Rooftop tent ladder or roof rack crossbar
- Inside the cabin on the dashboard
- Toolboxes or off-road storage cases
Some rigs wear them like medals of honor—others go for a stealthy look with badges tucked neatly onto gearboxes or trail armor. However you choose to show them, know that each one connects you to a growing community of off-roaders who share the same passion.
What Makes Our Badges Special?
Each badge is made with quality and durability in mind—after all, these are going on off-road rigs. They’re weatherproof, UV-resistant, and rugged enough to hold up to mud, rain, snow, and sun.
We also work hard to make sure each design reflects the spirit of the trail it represents. From mountaintop silhouettes and iconic rock formations to winding forest paths, every badge has a story to tell.
Get Involved and Keep Exploring
We encourage all of our members—and any off-roader passing through Virginia—to join the program. Not only is it a great way to track your personal progress, but it’s also a great conversation starter at trailheads and meetups. Members love asking, “Hey, where’d you get that badge?” or “You ran Second Mountain? How was it?”
In fact, some clubs even use the badge program to plan group trail runs. Pick a trail with a badge, organize a day trip, and make a memory together. Then when you’re done, grab the badge as a reminder of what you accomplished as a team.
Final Thoughts
Our Trail Badge Program isn’t just about decoration—it’s about connection. To the land. To the trail. To each other.
It’s about celebrating the trails that make Virginia such an incredible place to explore. It’s about honoring the rigs that get us there. And it’s about building something lasting, together—from badges and memories to parks and programs.
So, the next time you air down your tires and head into the woods, remember: the trail may end, but the story doesn’t. Commemorate it. Wear it proudly. And keep moving forward.
Get your badges, rep your trails, and be part of something bigger.
Visit VAOffRoad.org and start your Trail Badge journey today.
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