AJ’s Adventures, a new off-highway vehicle (OHV) outfitter based in Kitzmiller, is drawing riders to Garrett County with guided and self-guided side-by-side and ATV experiences on some of Western Maryland’s most scenic and technical OHV terrain.
The company’s operating model is straightforward: small groups, a lead guide up front, a sweep rider at the rear, clear route plans, and the option for qualified renters to explore independently on approved loops within the State of Maryland’s OHV-approved Wolf Den State Park.
“Western Maryland has the kind of terrain people are traveling to find,” said Antwain Watson, co-owner. “Our job is to make the day straightforward. We get riders on trail to experience the mountains and views that cannot be seen anywhere else.”
Lead guide Paul Tichnell added, “We match routes to conditions and experience. The Maryland State Park team has been key in assisting us with the logistical details to help us keep things moving on the ground.”
The timing aligns with rising attention on the park’s trail network, including the recent addition of a Wolf Den Run route to Jeep’s national Badge of Honor program, the first Maryland trail to receive that designation.
Through this program, when a driver takes on the adventure of completing a trail, they are rewarded with a badge, which they can proudly display on their vehicle. For adventure-seekers, these badges mark achievements they can trace throughout the U.S. While the Badge of Honor program targets Jeep drivers in particular, the recognition has broadened interest in the park’s trail system and emphasized interest in OHV rentals.
Wolf Den Park Manager Donnie Oates said there are unique rock outcroppings along the Badge of Honor trail. The area has rugged and mountainous terrain, with meadows, wetlands, small tributaries, and many ephemeral streams throughout. Drivers may encounter the occasional water feature depending on the time of year.
A recent guided outing with AJ’s illustrates how the format works for a rider with enthusiasm but no prior experience on an ATV or four-wheeler. The plan that morning called for a mix of hard-pack, muddy sections, short rock gardens, and a stretch of rolling trail along the ridge.
The group consisted of Paul leading the way in a side-by-side, two friends in a side-by-side, one first-time ATV rider, the Wolf Den park manager, Donnie, and Antwain serving as sweep.
Paul walked through throttle, how to brake, and what to do if momentum fades on a rock or in the mud. The paved road from the meeting site to the state park also allows time to get comfortable on the machine. It was a mile or two that allowed the opportunity to learn the throttle and test the brakes in an inconsequential way.
At the day’s first rock garden, Paul parked and walked the line he wanted, tapping an entry with his boot and pointing to two places where drivers need to pay attention. Antwain stepped in as needed to spot riders or to cue a reset.
Then, the group followed a gravel spur off the main loop: graded base with loose stone, light washboard, and several shallow mud holes fed by recent rains. Depth ran a few inches to mid-hub with a firm bottom—no hidden ruts or axle-grabbers. The correct approach is simple: choose a clean line, keep a steady low throttle, and avoid abrupt steering or braking so the tires maintain bite. Expect a muddy spray and a ton of fun.
It’s simple. Wolf Den Run has real off-road trails, and AJ’s Adventures makes it easy to try them.
If you’re new, the day usually goes the same way: you start a little nervous, you pick up the basics, you roll a muddy stretch, and suddenly you’re grinning.
By the end, most people step off a little taller than they started—dusty, hungry, and already talking about when they’ll come back.
“Show up, keep it simple, and let the terrain do its work,” Antwain said. “That’s the model.”
Details, availability, and booking provides guided and self-guided off-road experiences are listed at www.ajsadventures.com.