The Shake & Bake Talladega Nights

Thursday November 12 - Sunday November 15 2026

Talladega, AL

"If you ain't first, you're last!" (Okay, not really... On this ride, everyone wins!)

Think Talladega is about NASCAR and racing? This Talladega Adventure is not!!! Team Shake and Bake wants to present an opportunity for you fine Venture Unknown members to explore one of the most scenic drives around as we pass through the Cheaha Wilderness and across Alabama’s highest point, all the while helping us raise funds for Last Mile Relief. 

This will be a three night, two day adventure through the Talladega National Forest. The timing of this ride has been selected as the best chance of catching peak Autumn colors here in the southern most point of the Appalachian Mountains. 

The difficulty level of this ride will be Moderate, considered a VU2. Most 4x4 rigs(trailers should be built to handle blue trails) should be able to traverse this route with minimal problems. We will touch on several scenic FSRs, an amazing scenic byway, as well as follow the famous, and slightly more difficult, FSR 600-1 (commonly referred to as the Alabama Rubicon). A nice blend of Alabama dirt and asphalt will help us connect those scenic days with the Talladega Nights! 

Dates are November 12-15 and we will have a 10 rig cap. Team Shake and Bake will bring our captain, tail gunner and a mid captain to help ensure you have a great time while helping us support the cause that we are so passionate about!!! 

Itinerary:

Day 1 -

Thursday November 12 - Arrive at camp by 10pm but as early as you please. We will casually set up camp, introduce ourselves and spend some time telling lies around the fire. 

Day 2 -

Friday November 13 - Depart camp at 9am sharp. Day one will be a blend of FSRs and Scenic byways. There will be several scenic overlooks along our way as well as a fuel stop. The end of day one's route will find us at camp number 2. Arrival at camp should be about an hour before sunset. This gives us time to set up camp and get a fire started. Day one will have zero challenges and lots of seat time. 

Day 3 - 

Saturday November 14 - Depart camp at 9am sharp. Day two puts us on the famous 600-1 FSR also nicknamed the Alabama Rubicon. This path is a much slower technical route than the previous day. Once completed, we will refuel again if needed and proceed towards camp number 3. Along our path we will stop into a road side farm delight. Here you will have the opportunity to buy a dump truck load of fruits, veggies, jerky, fried pies, fudge and so forth…You get the idea! We should arrive at camp a little earlier on this day to allow us to set up camp and reflect upon our trip around another good ole fire. 

Day 4 -

Sunday November 15 - We will disperse camp at will. Stay as long as you like! 

Cost:

Registration can be completed below, a donation of $150 will secure your spot and cover everyone in your rig. Every rig will receive a special giftbag thanking you for your donation, in addition to an unforgettable ride experience. 

These donations Help us keep the lights on, and build out a Rapid Deployment Trailer! Every dollar donated to LMR goes right back into local communities in times of need and supports our mission to help care for underserved communities in times of great need. Learn more about our cause today and THANK YOU for your support!! 

Rig/gear Requirements and Expectations:

• 4x4 Required

• Full sized spare

• Skids/Sliders not required but strongly recomened 

• At least one recovery point on the front and rear of your rig

• 80 Series Landcruisers, espeically "Swiss Miss" color may not exceed 8 feet and 11 inches in total height

• GMRS Radio (Loaners available)

• TREADLightly principle awareness is required

• Camping gear and Enough Supplies to last the weekend, there will be stores to stop at if needed

• Recovery gear is recommended

• First Aid Kit Required

Rig Count: 10

Communications leading up to the ride:

We will be putting together a Facebook Messenger chat ahead of the ride to ensure everyone is prepared and excited to join us!