Every summer, the Rubicon Trail calls to Jeepers with its granite slabs, legendary obstacles, and off-road camaraderie—and this year, Motobilt answered the call in full force.
For the 73rd Annual Jeepers Jamboree, our West Coast Sales Manager Aaron Mercer joined longtime friends and extended Motobilt family members Ben Benavides and Eric Hilbert for a true bucket list experience. With Motobilt-equipped Jeeps and decades of off-road passion between them, the crew set out for one of the most iconic trail runs in the world.
It all started in Las Vegas, where Ben and Eric met up with their wives, Nancy and Mary, for a quick night on the town before making their way north. After a scenic detour in Lake Tahoe—complete with epic views and well-earned rest—they headed into Georgetown for Jamboree check-in and met up with Aaron and Tim McAleenan to finalize preparations.
From there, it was game on.
The Trail Lives Up to the Hype
The convoy aired down at Loon Lake and set out across the Rubicon, determined to make it to Rubicon Springs in a single day. The trail dished out everything you'd expect—tight rock gardens, steep granite climbs, and a healthy dose of challenge at every turn.
But thanks to the confidence that comes with Motobilt armor, skids, and rockers, the rigs made quick work of infamous obstacles like Walker Hill, Soup Bowl, and Big Sluice—no winching required. Along the way, the crew paused for trail repairs, helped fellow Jeepers, and soaked in the breathtaking Sierra Nevada views.
They rolled into camp at Rubicon Springs just after 6 PM and claimed prime real estate near the Slabs—a lively area known for its party atmosphere and great people.
Trail Life at Its Best
Once the hard work was done, the celebration began.
Rubicon Springs transformed into a festival of off-road culture. With live music, a full-time bar, floating down the river, and even a fire show lighting up the sky, every night brought new memories and friendships. The Jamboree crew kept everyone fueled with incredible meals—including a final steak dinner that earned rave reviews.
For Ben, Saturday was extra special—it marked his 50th birthday, celebrated in the most epic setting imaginable: surrounded by Jeepers, granite cliffs, and campfire laughter under a canopy of stars.
A Legendary Exit
Sunday morning meant it was time to head home—but not without one last challenge: Cadillac Hill. The climb out marked a fitting end to a week of unforgettable wheeling, stunning scenery, and the kind of moments that only happen when you get off the grid and into the rocks.
As Eric put it, “Unforgettable in every way. We’re already jotting down notes for next year.” And Ben? He’s already planning the return trip, too.
From All of Us at Motobilt…
We’re proud to see our gear tested on the trails that matter most—and even more proud to be part of a community that lives for adventure, friendship, and getting dirty in the name of good times. Huge thanks to Aaron for representing Motobilt on the West Coast and to Ben, Eric, and their families for sharing the journey.
Until next year, Jeepers Jamboree. We’ll be back.
Photos courtesy of © Eric Hilbert and © Ben Benavides.
