Meet the Mapper
Feat. onX Offroad Trail Guide Xander Goebel
The onX Offroad Trail Guide team is the human-powered machine behind our App’s comprehensive trail content. Behind every Guided Trail is a dedicated off-roader who explored it, documented it, and submitted the descriptions you see when you tap it on the map. But they’re not just collecting data on their adventures, they’re collecting epic stories worth sharing, too.
The onX Offroad Trail Guide team is the human-powered machine behind our App’s comprehensive trail content. Behind every Guided Trail is a dedicated off-roader who explored it, documented it, and submitted the descriptions you see when you tap it on the map. But they’re not just collecting data on their adventures, they’re collecting epic stories worth sharing, too.
Tell us a bit about yourself and where it all began.
After having kids, I developed a passion for backpacking, being outdoors, and indulging in some off-roading adventures. My love for off-roading has only deepened since the arrival of my first child. Despite having two young kids, hitting the off-road trails still provides me with a sense of adventure, and I enjoy sharing that thrilling experience with them. Together, we discover so many incredible things.
I got into off-roading through hunting. I enjoyed exploring random dirt roads in Arizona just to see where they led. Being out in the middle of nowhere, away from people, and discovering hidden gems appealed to me. As I started customizing my rig, I began seeking out dedicated off-road trails and met some fantastic people along the journey.
Tell us a story about your experience mapping one of the onX Offroad trails.
When doesn’t onX come in handy for me? Well, whenever I venture into uncharted territory, onX proves to be my trusty guide, effortlessly helping me navigate and ensuring a smooth return home. With onX, getting lost is simply not an option.
My go-to feature is the downloaded maps; they’re a lifesaver in distinguishing public land from private property. This ensures I steer clear of restricted areas. The snow mode is fantastic too, helping me pinpoint where the snowmobiles aren’t when I hit the trails for some snow wheeling.
Your rig is sweet! Tell us about it.
I drive a 2018 Toyota 4Runner that’s fully armored by CBI. It’s equipped with Mickey Thompson Baja Boss pizza cutter 35 tires, a Nguyen rear bumper, and an ARB snorkel. The front features King mid-travel shocks, while the rear has Dobinson long-travel shocks. It’s been an excellent rig for exploring with my family.
My initial ride was a Ford Powerstroke with the infamous 6.0. Dreaming of an 80 series Land Cruiser with a 7.3 supercharged Ford Godzilla engine.
You have an unlimited budget but can only make one modification to your ride: what is it and why?
Marlin Crawler because it is a long travel kit and will allow me to do longer trails and fits 37-inch tires.
You are given enough money and time to go off-roading anywhere in the world: where do you go?
I don’t need to go anywhere but the USA. There is so much to see here and it would take a life time to explore all the amazing places area here.
We couldn’t do it without Trail Guides like Xander, and we love hearing the stories they’ve earned on the road. Follow Xander’s dirt-road wanders on Instagram at @adventure4rx4
Stay tuned to meet more of our mappers,
and follow the link below to learn about the onX Offroad Trail Guide program or apply to join.