Trans-America Trail in a 2020 Toyota Tacoma

Mountain State Overland Toyota Tacoma with Camper Takes on the Trans-America Trail

Adventurous spirits like to push boundaries. We were the kids jumping off the arm rest of the sofa at 2 ½ years old or sliding down the stairs in our sleeping bags mimicking the thrill of a roller coaster at age 10. We are the ones who started camping at a young age with Boy Scouts or Girl Scouts and, as we got older, still like to push boundaries—this time getting out further to explore the world around us. Exploring the East Coast brought us the opportunity to meet Jason Specht. He traveled to Overland Challenge in Uwharrie, North Carolina, with his son in their 2020 Toyota Tacoma with one of the first stateside Alu-Cab Canopy Campers.

A Quality Camper Build

We spent some time enjoying Specht’s delicious grilled pineapple while learning more about his thoughtfully built truck. A nice blend of function and form, the Canopy Camper allows him to have just about anything needed at arm’s reach. Impressed by the camper build, and the ability of his son to sleep through our evening banter, we knew we wanted to highlight this truck in the near future.

Little did we know at first meeting that Specht was part of a popular YouTube channel, Mountain State Overland. We had heard of Mountain State Overland from Instagram when he mentioned the name, but we had never watched an episode of their channel, 9 years in the making. And boy were we missing out! We have been binging episodes ever since its discovery. The guys give us a glimpse of overlanding life on the east coast, and have a lot of fun doing it.

Modifying the necessary and springing for some luxury while not overdoing it, this 2020 Tacoma proves a simple vehicle build with the perfectly curated components is worth its weight in gold. For Specht, 8 years of overlanding experience brought both efficiency and heaps of fun.

Timing Your Adventure: When to Hit the TAT

If you’re eyeing the full sweep of the Trans-America Trail—especially those legendary western stretches through Colorado, Utah, and Oregon—timing is everything. Snow lingers on the higher mountain passes, often making routes impassable until the warmth of late June coaxes it away. Most experienced overlanders (and those who’ve learned the hard way) suggest planning your crossing between late June and early September for the best chance at clear trails.

But remember, not all obstacles are frozen. Utah and Nevada can turn up the heat, dishing out triple-digit temps and some brutally dry stretches. Carry plenty of water, sun protection, and maybe stash that favorite wide-brimmed hat—shade gets scarce.

In short: Late June through early September hits the sweet spot, letting you dodge both lingering snowpacks and the worst of the melt-your-boots heat. If your route leans more toward the east, you’ll have more flexibility, but for the mountain crossings, patience and planning pay off.

Adventurous Spirits Never Die

This former Boy Scout was lucky enough to get camping experience at a young age. Even throughout high school, Specht took trips on the weekends to car camp and fish with friends.  As he put it, “That’s just what we did on weekends.”

“Once a camera joined to document their journeys, Specht and the guys were hooked and fully immersed in the lifestyle.”

Flash forward about 15 years, Specht and his college buddies decided camping near home wasn’t enough. They began to push out further and planned backroad trips in the mountains to camp. Once a camera joined to document their journeys, Specht and the guys were hooked and fully immersed in the lifestyle.

Mountain State Overland

Over 8 years, MSO has built 5 vehicles. Each one uses different gear, affording them the opportunity to fine tune the build process. Each build brought more armor, refined storage solutions and the opportunity to test different products. It comes as no surprise to us that the Canopy Camper is Specht’s favorite build yet. When you have the right, dialed-in vehicle, you’ll tend to camp more often. Once Specht acquired the Alu-Cab Canopy Camper, of course his favorite part of the build, he found himself getting out on more trips with family and friends.

The Tacoma is a true travel vehicle built for multi-day overland expeditions. It is used to host guided tours, take the family on weekend trips or stay on the road even longer for 10 to 14-day trips for filming. To tackle all those various tasks, this 2020 Tacoma needs to be capable and comfortable.

Toyota Tacoma: Smooth and Safe Travels

Dedicated for adventure and housed in the garage during down times, the Tacoma is mostly stock, with exception of the essentials. Within 3 weeks, OK4WD in Stewartsville, New Jersey, got this vehicle ready for adventure and fun.

Do You Really Need a GPS for the TAT?

When setting off on the Trans-America Trail, a GPS isn’t strictly necessary, but it certainly earns its keep. The mainstay for many seasoned overlanders is a good old-fashioned roll chart and a reliable odometer—think classic, dependable, and refreshingly analog. This tried-and-true method gets you where you’re going with minimal fuss, and it doesn’t blink out when you pass through a particularly remote corner of the Ozarks or the wilds of Idaho.

That said, having a GPS device like a Garmin Overlander or your favorite navigation app is a smart backup. While the roll chart and odometer combo will see you through most days, a GPS helps you double-check your route, find campsites or fuel, and troubleshoot if you ever wander just a tad off-course. It’s that extra layer of confidence for both first-timers and hardened adventurers alike.

For the full TAT experience, bring both: savor the simplicity and reliability of classic navigation, but keep the tech handy for when you really need it. You won’t regret it.

Giving it a comfortable ride, most helpful on long expeditions like MSO’s Trans American Highway trips, are Bilstein B8 8112s in front and rear with Deaver MSO Expedition Leaf Springs in the rear. A custom cab mount chop helped accommodate the 17 x 8 AEV Crestone Dualsport Wheels wrapped in 34 x 11.50 Toyo Tires Open Country M/Ts. The Tacoma was also re-geared with a Yukon 4.88 to relieve stress on components and keep it on the road and Trans-American Trail for years to come.  The Trans-American Trail itself isn’t a technical single-track route with tight sections, but rather a collection of public backcountry roads—both paved and unpaved—that wind across the country. You won’t find yourself crossing private land or locked gates, which means the Tacoma’s upgrades are focused on reliability and comfort over long distances, not just rock-crawling prowess. With these thoughtful improvements, the truck is well-prepared to handle the varying road conditions and extended miles that each trip on the TAT demands.

For those taking on long-distance overland routes like the TAT, camping becomes part of the adventure. While you’ll pass the occasional established campground or state park, most nights are spent seeking out that ideal spot tucked beside a river, shaded under trees, or with a mountain view. The spontaneity of discovering a quiet place to pitch your tent at the end of the day adds to the sense of freedom. Whether it’s a remote pull-off or a spot next to a lake for a quick dip before dinner, each site becomes memorable in its own way.

After a full day on the trail, nothing beats rolling into camp, kicking back, and soaking in the surroundings before night falls.

Protection is always a top priority for any overland build. A Victory 4×4 Strike front bumper houses a Warn Zeon 12S Platinum winch and Rigid Industries Single Row light bar. The undercarriage is protected with Victory 4×4 skid plates while body panels are protected with Victory 4×4 Blitz rock sliders. Even the paintjob is protected with a full clear vehicle wrap with custom artwork, helping to push the MSO branding.

The Right Tires for the Trail

The question of whether you need knobby tires for the TAT comes up time and again, and for good reason. Having tackled everything from gravelly byways to muddy forest roads, we’ve learned that the right tires make a huge difference in both comfort and confidence.

For much of the Trans-America Trail—especially on the more technical western segments—a true knobby or aggressive dirt tire, like the Dunlop D606 or Continental TKC80, is a big advantage. These offer the extra bite you’ll want in mud, loose gravel, or rocky climbs, helping you stay upright and moving forward when the trail throws curveballs your way.

That said, riders running high-quality dual-sport tires, such as the Michelin Anakee Wild or Shinko 804/805, have managed just fine, particularly through the eastern stretches where terrain is tamer. If your TAT adventure starts east of the Mississippi, an aggressive dual-sport tire will get you by—just keep in mind you’ll trade a bit of off-road grip for longer wear and quieter highway miles.

No matter which rubber you choose, always check your tires before hitting the next stretch. Cutting corners here often leads to real headaches down the road—quite literally.

Essential Tools for the Road

Preparation is half the adventure, and hitting the trail means carrying reliable tools for those unexpected moments. Specht never leaves home without a few core items stashed just within reach:

• Tire repair kit and an air compressor for flats, because patching punctures is as much a part of overlanding as making s’mores by the fire.
• Basic hand tools—think screwdrivers, pliers, and a sturdy set of wrenches—to handle minor trail repairs or rattling bolts.
• Don’t forget zip ties, duct tape, and bungee cords—the holy trinity for quick fixes on the fly.
• A solid flashlight or headlamp, plus fresh batteries, to light up late-night repairs or post-sunset gear hunts.
• Matches or a lighter, just in case you need to spark up a campfire or tackle an emergency fix in the dark.

With these essentials close by, you’re ready for just about anything the road has to offer, from a slow leak to a loose bracket, keeping your adventures rolling smoothly.

Fuel Stops: Planning for the Long Haul

When it comes to refueling on the Trans-America Trail, a little forethought goes a long way. The eastern sections are relatively forgiving—rarely will you go more than 100 miles before finding a gas station, and most stretches have fuel available about every 60 miles. That said, don’t let the convenience lull you into complacency.

Some states toss a curveball, spacing the next pump up to 190 miles apart. For these longer stretches, it pays to plan ahead. Each evening, make it your ritual to study your TAT-Maps, identifying the fuel stops for the next day’s journey. If you find yourself running behind schedule or riding later into the evening, remember: some rural stations may close early, or not stay open through the night.

Whenever your tank dips to half—especially in remote zones—treat it as your cue to fill up, not just top off. Trust us, the middle of nowhere is not the place to gamble on fumes. Keeping a backup fuel can doesn’t hurt either, particularly when the adventure pulls you farther from civilization.

By treating fuel stops as a core part of your daily trail prep, you ensure the Tacoma—and your overland journey—keeps rolling smoothly to the next horizon.

Inside the Cockpit

The interior remains stock, but plenty of storage opportunities are provided with Blueridge Overland Gear seat back panels and Velcro pouches. To keep connected while on the road and trail, Specht uses a Midland MXT575 radio to communicate. He also has a Garmin Overlander and InReach mounted on an Expedition Essentials TPAM.

Navigating the Trail: GPS & Roll Chart Setup

For navigation, Specht relies on a blend of modern tech and classic simplicity. The Garmin Overlander is loaded with tracks—never to be confused with routes—and paired with the InReach for extra peace of mind in remote stretches. The Overlander easily stores multiple tracks, routes, and waypoints, making it perfect for cross-state journeys like the Trans-America Trail. It’s important to know how many tracks and waypoints your GPS unit can store, especially if you’re planning to traverse several states in one trip.

While a GPS isn’t strictly required for a trip like this, it’s highly recommended for backup and assurance. The main navigation method remains the trusty TAT roll chart and odometer, prized for its accuracy and straightforward use, but the GPS serves as a reliable safety net. The roll chart holder in the cab features an extra-wide window, letting you view a generous section of directions before needing to scroll ahead—an underrated luxury on bumpy backroads.

This thoughtful combination of gear ensures that, whether navigating by screen or by scroll, Specht and his family are always pointed in the right direction.

Finding Your Way on the Trans-America Trail

When it comes to navigating the Trans-America Trail, having reliable and up-to-date maps is crucial for a smooth journey. For the most current navigation information, route changes, and land use updates, riders should always rely on established, reputable sources. This includes official providers of detailed maps, GPS tracks, and roll charts—especially those who actively maintain and update their materials to reflect real-world conditions, such as changes in public access and road closures.

Unlike some adventure trails, the TAT follows public roads—both paved and unpaved—and avoids private lands or locked gates, making official navigation aids especially trustworthy. Riders can count on these resources to ensure that their route remains legal and accessible, as the providers work diligently to stay informed about any changes affecting the trail. So before setting off, make sure to secure the latest navigation tools from trusted specialists who are dedicated to keeping travelers informed and safe out on the trail.

Understanding GPS Tracks, Routes, and Waypoints for the TAT

If you’re prepping for a long overland trek like the Trans-America Trail, chances are you’ve heard folks toss around the terms “tracks,” “routes,” and “waypoints.” While they may sound similar, each has a distinct role in navigation—especially when you’re exploring off the beaten path.

• GPS Tracks: Think of tracks as breadcrumbs left behind by previous travelers. They’re essentially a digital trail of your exact movements, showing precisely where you (or someone else) drove, hiked, or rode. Popular apps and devices like Garmin, Gaia GPS, and OnX let you follow these tracks, which can be crucial for keeping you on course, especially when trail markings vanish or maps grow vague.
• GPS Routes: Routes, on the other hand, are more of a “connect the dots” plan. They consist of a sequence of waypoints connected in order, guiding you along suggested roads or trails. Unlike tracks, routes often adapt to map data and can provide step-by-step directions, similar to how your car’s navigation tells you when to turn left at Albuquerque.
• Waypoints: Waypoints are your digital signposts—specific locations marked by latitude and longitude. Whether it’s a roadside campsite, scenic overlook, or that one gas station rumored to have real coffee, waypoints help you save and find those must-hit spots. On the TAT, setting a waypoint at your intended campsite or photo stop can make the day run smoother.

In the wilds of the TAT, experienced overlanders swear by a combo: follow the GPS track to stay true to the trail, use routes for planning segments, and drop waypoints for those essential stops or hazards worth a heads-up. With tools like these, navigating from Appalachia to the Pacific becomes more adventure and less guesswork.

GPS Preparation for the TAT

Navigating the Trans-America Trail is a grand adventure—but the right GPS setup can make the difference between frustration and smooth sailing. Before you set off down forest roads and backroads, take some time to get familiar with your GPS unit and its features.

Start with research. Whether you’re considering a Garmin Overlander, Montana, or a go-to phone app, understanding the basics will help you read the trail, not just follow it. GPS units aren’t all built the same, so look for a model that matches your planned use, trip length, and personal comfort with tech.

Here are a few points to keep in mind:

• Tracks vs. Routes: Get to know the distinction. Tracks represent where you’ve been (breadcrumb trails), while routes are planned paths to follow.
• Waypoints Mastery: Brush up on how to set, save, and navigate to waypoints—those digital pins marking important trailheads, fuel stops, or campsites.
• Storage Capacity: Double-check the onboard memory. The TAT is long, and some GPS files can be large. Newer units generally offer room for plenty of tracks, routes, and waypoints, but older devices may require a memory card upgrade.
• Ease of Use: Make sure the interface feels intuitive in your hands, and that it’s readable in sunlight or when dusty.

Before you roll out, spend an evening loading TAT tracks, organizing waypoints, and practicing saving new locations. Know what your unit can and can’t do—nothing spoils a trail day like discovering limitations deep in the woods.

With your GPS dialed in, you’re free to focus on the journey—finding those serene river campsites and remote stretches that make the TAT legendary.

Creature Comforts

Inside the Alu-Cab Canopy Camper, Specht gathered and accessorized all the items he enjoyed from his previous builds. There are not just one, but two, Engel MT45 Fridge/Freezers on Transit Slide Locks. An Alu-Cab 13-gallon water storage tank and 12V water pump ensures he’s got plenty of H2O to wash up and prep food.

Regulating temperature is easier in a camper than a rooftop tent. Thinsulate panels keep things cool in warm temps and warmer during cold temps. Specht paired those with a GP Factor Furnace Kit and Dickenson Heater, ensuring a comfortable night’s sleep. And when it’s warm outside, like in the summer, he can switch on the pair of 12V fans.

That said, overlanding means being prepared for anything—especially when it comes to mountain weather. Even in July and August, high elevations can surprise you with a cold snap or a sudden rainstorm. Packing proper rain gear and layers is essential. Nights in the camper might be cozy, but stepping outside for camp chores or a midnight pitstop can be brisk. Specht keeps extra sets of clothes handy, along with a lightweight rain jacket and a compact umbrella—just in case the skies open up or the desert sun gets relentless.

The result? Whether facing chilly Colorado nights or unexpected summer showers, comfort and preparedness are always within arm’s reach.

“Once Specht acquired the Alu-Cab Canopy Camper, of course his favorite part of the build, he found himself getting out on more trips with family and friends.”

It’s important to keep all your gear and goods organized, as any overlander knows. The camper is no different. Goose Gear provides organization with their Canopy Camper Complete Drawer and Utility Module. For other gear, GP Factor Molle Panels are used to mount other storage solutions.

And to keep power fed to the exterior lights and accessories inside the camper, he installed two Odyssey Batteries on an Off-Grid Engineering Dual Battery Tray.

Packing Food and Water for the Journey

When preparing for any overland or adventure ride, having enough food and water on board is a non-negotiable. The essentials go beyond just gear and gadgets— smart planning starts with making sure you’ll stay fueled and hydrated along the way.

It’s wise to stash some compact, calorie-dense foods like energy bars or trail mix, plus a few reserve snacks for those unexpected stops. Always carry more water than you think you’ll need; hydration bladders such as those from CamelBak or MSR make sipping on the go effortless, and bottles from Nalgene or Hydro Flask are equally at home bouncing around in a pannier.

But how much is enough? In dry climates like Utah or Nevada, or when riding hard, aim for about 32 ounces (four big glasses) of water each hour. Frequent small sips are best—steady hydration helps your body absorb water more efficiently than chugging it all at once. If you’re sweating it out in summer heat, plan for even more, and keep a close eye on those fluid levels.

A few more wise additions: pack a small flashlight, stormproof matches, and, of course, a trustworthy First-Aid kit. With all your basics sorted, you’ll focus less on what you forgot and more on the journey ahead.

Documenting Memories

Lucky enough to keep this Tacoma garaged when not in use, Specht also owns a Toyota T100 that he uses as his grocery getter. But when out filming, like for the “Hammer Down” series on YouTube, the Toyota Tacoma gets plenty of use. Each year, the MSO posse has been taking 10- to 14-day trips along the Trans-America Trail, capturing all the fun had along the way.

“Modifying the necessary and springing for some luxury while not overdoing it, this 2020 Tacoma proves a simple vehicle build with the perfectly curated components is worth its weight in gold.”

Packing for an extended adventure like the Trans-America Trail means walking a fine line between preparedness and excess. The key: bring what you need, not what you think you might need. Start with a thorough checklist for your vehicle—fresh tires suited for mud, gravel, and pavement, a solid chain, new brake pads, clean filters, and oil. Stash away essential tools for flats and quick fixes, and don’t forget the basics like a flashlight, zip ties, bungee cords, and duct tape.

When it comes to personal gear, simplicity is your friend. Three sets of clothes, rain gear for those inevitable downpours, and a compact umbrella for shade in the desert sun go a long way. Nights in the mountains can be chilly, so pack layers to keep warm and dry. For campers, the drill is familiar: keep it light, keep it organized, and keep it reliable.

With the right balance, every outing becomes less about the gear you haul and more about the experiences you gain—making every mile with the Tacoma an exercise in thoughtful adventure.”

While you may be quite lucky to find Specht as his favorite destination, a secret spot in West Virginia with 270-degree views of the surrounding mountain ranges, you can most likely find him and the MSO Toyota Tacoma at various overlanding events on the east coast and beyond, often with OK4WD.

Be sure to check out Mountain State Overland on YouTube and on social media. We hope you find them as entertaining and inspiring as we do.

UPGRADES

2020 Toyota Tacoma w/ Alu-Cab Canopy Camper

Engine: 3.5L V6

Suspension: Bilstein B8 8112 with Custom Cab Mount Chop (front); Bilstein B8 8100 with Deaver MSO Expedition Leaf Springs (rear)

Wheels & Tires: AEV Crestone Dualsport Wheel w/Protection Ring 17×8 with 4.69” backspacing; Toyo Tires Open Country M/T size 34×11.50

Interior Accessories: Garmin InReach and Overlander; Blue Ridge Overland Gear Seat Back panels and Velcro pouches; Midland MXT575; Expedition Essentials TPAM

Exterior Accessories: Safar Snorkel; Sy-Klone Pre-Filter; Rigid Industries single row light bar; WARN Zeon 12S Platinum winch; Victory 4×4 Strike front bumper, skid plates, Blitz sliders; full clear wrap with custom artwork; (4) Maxtrax; GP Factor Traction Board Latches; (2) Odyssey Battery; Off-Grid Engineering Dual Battery Tray

Camper Accessories: Alu-Cab Canopy Camper; (2) Engel MT45 Fridge/Freezers on Transit Slide Locks; Goose Gear Canopy Camper Complete Drawer and Utility Modules; Alu-Cab 13G Water Storage Tank; 12V Water Pump; GP Factor Molle Panels; Custom Camper Thinsulate Panels BedRug; GP Factor Table and Cutting Board; GP Factor Furnace Kit and Dickenson Heater; Twin 12V Camper Fans

Additional Modifications: Yukon 4.88 Differential

Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared in the July/Aug 2022 issue of Tread Magazine.