Everyone is a first timer in the beginning. As a first timer, you may have questions and concerns, and this post will help you have an amazing day right from the very beginning of your adventure. It’s designed to help you avoid first-timer pitfalls and put you on the road to an unforgettable experience.
Additionally, our Guest Experience Coordinators are all well versed on the ins and outs for all of our UTVs, as well as very knowledgeable about our wide variety of custom routes, and can answer any questions you may have before you embark.
So let’s dive in and create those lasting memories together!
Mistake #1: Choosing the Wrong Rental Duration
Most first timers end up choosing the wrong rental time duration that doesn’t match what you really want to do and the type of experience you want to have for your day. Many will choose a short duration rental up front, and then they end up rushing and watching the clock.
You don’t want to feel rushed on your vacation, and your UTV experience is no different.
Our recommendation is to think about what you would really like to do and see, and your plan should absolutely include some time out of the machine to explore and take it all in. There are so many hidden gems around the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and the surrounding areas. You don’t want to miss out.
Mistake #2: Not Thinking About What You Want to Do
We see a lot of folks show up, and they have not spent any time really thinking about what they want to do or see during their UTV experience.
You don’t need to have it all figured out by any means, but a little planning up front can go a very long way to delivering you and your family that memorable experience.
If this is your first time in the area or you still do not know what sounds best, don’t worry, we are here to help. We have carefully designed a variety of custom routes from just a few hours to all day and experiences that are sure to maximize your enjoyment. Our staff will provide the experience that best matches your vision and budget. This is a key step to ensuring your day runs smoothly and maximizing your excitement.
Mistake #3: Dressing for the Parking Lot
Clothing choices can make or break your day. Temperatures and breezes in the mountains can change significantly as elevation changes. Temperature alone can change by up to 25-30 degrees from the Gatlinburg strip to up on top of Newfound Gap.
Our suggestion is don’t dress for the parking lot.
Layering clothing is a key tactic regardless of whether it’s winter or summer. Didn’t bring the right clothes with you? No need to worry. We have a variety of gear available in our stores, from bandanas and goggles to snowsuits and gloves. If you need something, please ask. But a little advanced planning here will provide your group peace of mind for the entire experience.
Mistake #4: Trying to Video Everything While Driving
Trying to video everything or filming while driving. These mistakes can add a lot of stress to your experience, and they can also be unsafe.
We have the solution for you. We will provide you with phone holders that mount right on the windshield, plus we will outfit you with charging blocks and cords you can plug right into any UTV. This will allow you safe hands-free driving with an ability to capture it all on the go.
This is not something we charge additional for but rather are happy to include with your rental to help boost your overall experience. Need us to set you up? Just ask.
Mistake #5: Driving Like It’s a Race
We have designed these custom routes and experiences for enjoyment and fun. Taking your time and driving safely and in a controlled manner not only brings comfort to those in your group, but it also helps ensure you don’t miss anything amazing along the way.
Advanced planning for stops and turns, along with smooth acceleration, is essential to maintain that desired safety margin. If you do those basics during your rental experience, it will feel controlled, safe, and fun. That’s the secret.
It’s Just That Simple
It’s just that simple. No complicated formula. If you spend a little time in the planning phase and keep these 5 things in mind, I am confident that your group is going to have a very memorable day. Even if this is your very first time driving a UTV.
If you still have any questions, please feel free to drop them in the comments of the post or reach out to any of our staff, as they will be happy to assist you.
Read also: UTV Safety for Kids
