Scroll To The Top
YOUR Window to the Wild
An Epic Start to an Epic Trip “I could have just started in Portland,” Drew recalls. “But I figured, if I’m gonna drive across most of Oregon, why not drive across all of it?” So, before starting the long drive eastward, he headed for the dunes and beaches north of Cape Kiwanda for a proper off-road shake-down in the Trailhunter.
Protect Our Stars A Dark Sky Place (DSP) is an area that restricts light pollution in an effort to protect and preserve the stunning beauty of the night sky — and allows you to catch your fill of shooting stars. You can find all international locations at darksky.org.
Rooftop Tent
Packing List
Portable Power Bank
Cargo Organizers
Camp Table
Camp Chairs (2)
Camp Kitchen Kit
Espresso Maker
Recovery Kit
Camera Bag
DC-POwered Fridge/Freezer
"Honestly, I never even went camping until I was 21 years old. And then I never stopped."
DATE: April 19th, 2025 08:00:24 AM
WEATHER: 61°F Partly Cloudy
APRIL 2025
Route Map
Presented By
Drew Simms drives across Oregon to camp under a meteor shower
OREGON COAST
Tillamook STate Forest
DATE: APRIL 20TH, 2025 04:35:06 PM
WEATHER: 56°F CLEAR SKIES
Campsite Carbonara Drew’s secret to all-time camp carbonara is simple: “You gotta use pancetta.” Although bacon is commonly substituted for this savory dish, Drew swears by pancetta. Here’s his recipe: Ingredients: Instructions: In a large frying pan add oil, pancetta, garlic and hot pepper flakes. Cook on medium heat until the pancetta is cooked (but not too crispy). Stir often so the pancetta doesn't burn. While the pancetta is cooking, boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta until al dente. While the pasta is cooking, in a small bowl beat the eggs and yolks, then add the cheese and mix very well. When the pasta is done, turn the heat back on the pancetta (to medium-high), add the drained pasta, toss together to combine well for about 20-30 seconds, then remove the pan from the heat and add the egg mixture, constantly tossing together. Add a tablespoon or two of pasta water to make sure it is very creamy and continue to toss until well blended. Top with additional grated cheese and parsley if desired. Serve immediately. Enjoy!
CENTRAL OREGON
SISTERS
SAHALIE FALLs
DATE: APRIL 21ST, 2025 01:22:49 AM
WEATHER: 37°F CLEAR SKIES
EASTERN OREGON
LESLIE GULCH
CHAPTER 03
CHAPTER 02
CHAPTER 01
"When we arrived, the road to our camp was closed for logging. We had to adjust quickly on the fly. That's what makes it fun though."
Ready to Plan Your Own Trip? If you’re into shooting stars and inspired by our trip, mark your calendar and plan your own adventure for this August. Every year, the Perseid Meteor Shower lights up the sky between August 11 and 13. For 2025, peak activity is expected on the night of August 12.
Cape Kiwanda
Sand Just Met Its Match
With Trailhunter’s on-board air compressor, you can safely air down — and back up — when traversing rough and loose terrain.
Did someone say rooftop tent?
Trailhunter’s factory-installed ARB® Roof Rack makes it easy to expand your vehicle’s overlanding capabilities. Add a cargo box, rooftop tent or additional accessories with ease.
2 tablespoons olive oil ⅓ cup Pecorino + ⅓ cup Parmesan reggiano, grated 2 whole eggs plus 2 egg yolks (room temperature) ⅔ cup cubed pancetta 1 tablespoon minced garlic 3 cups cooked pasta (long or short whichever you prefer) 1-2 pinches hot pepper flakes to taste if desired 1-2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Let The OUTSIDE in
Whether it’s airflow, fitting your surfboards or bringing the dogs along for an adventure, 4Runner’s Power Rear Window is as functional as it is iconic.
Video Hed Tk Tk
Volcanic Splendor Farther east, dense coastal forest gave way to the rolling ponderosa forests and towering volcanoes of central Oregon. With miles of forest roads to explore, Drew set out in search of a campsite with a view. By all accounts, he succeeded.
Off-Road Ready, Right Off the Lot
The 2025 Toyota 4Runner Trailhunter is equipped to take you farther over rocky roads and trails with Old Man Emu® suspension and rugged steel underbody protection.
Shine Bright
No matter the time of day or night, never lose sight of the trail thanks to high-powered Rigid Industries® LED fog lights.
Drive the Road Less Traveled
The combo of 18-inch bronze-finished wheels with 33-inch Toyo Open Country A/T III tires doesn’t just look rugged — it’s tuned to deliver impressive off-road performance over just about every kind of terrain.
3 OF 3
2 OF 3
1 OF 3
Photos
Read more
Three awe-inspiring adventures. One iconic vehicle.
Behind the wheel of a 2025 Toyota 4Runner Trailhunter, commercial photographer and YouTube creator Drew Simms traverses the entire state of Oregon in search of dark skies, uncrowded campsites, and a rare celestial event.
WATCH THE FILM
Meet Drew Simms A YouTuber and filmmaker known for his cinematic travel vlogs and solo overlanding adventures across the U.S. and beyond.
YEARS living on the road
4
8
52
years as a photographer and filmmaker
Outdoor Adventure Films Created
miles driven
200K
EXPLORE THE 4RUNNER LINEUP
SAND LAKE OHV
MCKENZIE RIVER
Overlanding Paradise Most famous for its towering rock formations and population of California bighorn sheep, Leslie Gulch also boasts countless two-tracks and backcountry campsites prime for overlanding. Oh, and thanks to its location in Oregon’s high desert, far from urban light pollution, it’s got the clear, dark skies Drew needed to score some stunning images of the meteor shower.
04
03
Tillamook State Forest
02
01
Dramatic cliffs, huge sand dunes and epic views of the Pacific Ocean define this region. Just north of Cape Kiwanda, at Sand Lake Recreation Area, you can drive into the dunes and explore the coastline’s wild terrain.
You won’t find delicious Tillamook cheese here, but you can soothe that disappointment with over 250 miles of OHV trails, including Browns Camp, Jordan Creek, and Diamond Mill.
This artsy community is named for the three closely-spaced volcanic peaks on its western flank. The area offers opportunities for year-round outdoor recreation including hiking, biking and camping.
Named for a local rancher, Hiram E. Leslie, who was struck by lightning here in 1882, Leslie Gulch is now most famous for its towering rock formations, population of California bighorn sheep, and seemingly endless two-tracks prime for overlanding.
CLICK LOCATIONS TO EXPLORE MORE
SAHALIE FALLS
One of three major waterfalls on the McKenzie River, which runs through the Willamette National Forest, Sahalie Falls is renowned for its lush, natural beauty — and the 100-foot drop of its main waterfall.
COMING SOON
Chasing Light In the REDROCK DESERT with Landscape Photographer Cody Conk
Searching for Empty Lineups in Central California with Professional Surfer Hunter Jones
The Toyota model or models shown are designed to meet most off-road driving requirements, but off-roading is inherently dangerous and may result in personal injury or vehicle damage. Toyota encourages responsible operation to help protect you, your vehicle and the environment. Do not overload vehicle and properly secure roof load. See Owner’s Manual for weight limits and restrictions. Vehicle shown may include accessories not designed, manufactured or evaluated by Toyota nor covered by vehicle warranty. Options shown.
Off-roading is inherently dangerous and may result in personal injury or vehicle damage. Abusive use may result in personal injury or vehicle damage. Do not overload vehicle and properly secure roof load. See Owner’s Manual for weight limits and restrictions. Vehicle shown may include accessories not designed, manufactured or evaluated by Toyota nor covered by vehicle warranty. Options shown.
Do not overload vehicle and properly secure roof load. See Owner’s Manual for weight limits and restrictions. Vehicle shown may include accessories not designed, manufactured or evaluated by Toyota nor covered by vehicle warranty. Options shown.
Off-roading is inherently dangerous. Abusive use may result in personal injury or vehicle damage.
Options shown.
Photo: Drew Simms
Timelapse: Drew Simms
Chapter 03
Chapter 02
Chapter 01
TRD Pro model shown.
Off-roading is inherently dangerous. Abusive use may result in personal injury or vehicle damage. TRD Pro model shown.
“The first time I came to White Pocket was also my first off-roading experience. We got lost in the maze of roads but found our way there just in time for sunset. It absolutely blew my mind. ”
1
Get a Good Tripod Since you’ll often shoot longer exposures with low light, a sturdy tripod is a must.
2
Keep ISO Low Maintain a low ISO (typically 100 or 200) to minimize noise and preserve image quality.
3
Scout in Advance Visit your shooting location during daylight to plan your compositions and identify any obstacles.
FOX is a registered trademark of FOX Factory, Inc. TRD Pro model shown.
In the southwest region of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Alstrom Point offers breathtaking views of the cliffs and canyons surrounding Lake Powell thousands of feet below. But don’t just take our word for it. “It’s probably my favorite view of all time,” says Cody.
ROCK ANY ROAD
Blue Hour Bliss
Cody's essential low-light tips
Out-of-this-World Landscapes
The striking geology of the Colorado Plateau is defined by layered sedimentary rocks—primarily Jurassic Navajo Sandstone—forming dramatic cliffs, mesas, slot canyons, and unique formations like White Pocket. Over millennia, wind and water have sculpted these colorful, swirling landscapes, making them iconic destinations for photographers and adventurers alike.
With the TRD Pro’s Multi-Terrain Select (MTS) feature, dial in your rig’s mode to meet the unique needs of driving through sand, over rock, or in wet, frozen or muddy conditions.
tuned for any terrain
BLUE HOUR BLISS Cody’s essential low-light tips
When the going gets slow, off-camber, and technical, the Stabilizer Disconnect Mechanism (SDM) allows drivers to unlock the vehicle’s sway bar and maximize wheel articulation over uneven terrain like ruts and boulders.
STUDENTS MENTORED THROUGH WORKSHOPS
120+
NATIONAL PARKS VISITED
26
years as a full-time creator
AVERAGE MILES DRIVEN PER YEAR FOR PHOTOGRAPHY
42K
Meet Cody Conk Born in Seoul, Korea, raised in New Jersey, and currently based in Utah, Cody is a full-time photographer and videographer. Through his sweeping images and videos of awesome natural landscapes, he’s built a community across social media and beyond.
paria canyon
LOOKING OUT THE REAR VIEW
Another 4Runner trait that hasn’t changed? Its legendary capability. For Cody, the confidence to tackle just about any terrain affords him access to the wild and remote landscapes he wants to capture most.
The 2025 4Runner is new and improved in just about every way imaginable. But some things haven’t changed, like the iconic power rear window. Each time Cody reaches through that window to grab a camera, it signifies the beginning of a new experience doing what he loves.
“I actually do have a formula for nailing the perfect shot: One part timing, one part preparation, and one part magic.”
Got 20 miles of washboard between you and a sunset view? Equipped with FOX 2.5-inch Internal Bypass QS3 shocks, the 2025 4Runner TRD Pro floats over rough roads at speed — delivering serious comfort and control.
BORN TO RUN
The filming location for classics like Clint Eastwood’s "The Outlaw Josey Wales," Paria Canyon has a rich history — and even richer geology, including the surrounding badlands with layered, colorful rock formations.
If “The Wave” is the region’s poster child for wild geologic formations, White Pocket is the under-the-radar sibling. Tucked deep inside the Vermillion Cliffs National Monument, White Pocket’s surreal and otherworldly formations more than pay off the adventurous and lengthy off-road approach.
alstrom point
white pocket
MAY 2025
Landscape photographer Cody Conk pilots a 4Runner TRD Pro through the geological marvels of Southern Utah and Northern Arizona in search of the decisive moment when magical images are captured.
Chasing light in canyon country with Cody Conk
Off-roading is inherently dangerous. Abusive use may result in personal injury or vehicle damage. Do not overload vehicle and properly secure roof load. See Owner’s Manual for weight limits and restrictions. Vehicle shown may include accessories not designed, manufactured or evaluated by Toyota nor covered by vehicle warranty. Options shown.
When the pavement ends, 4Runner’s Multi-Terrain Select (MTS) system is at the ready, allowing you to tune the vehicle’s driving characteristics for a wide variety of road and trail conditions.
Dirt mode, engage
Along Big Sur’s dramatic coastline, the California poppy thrives on coastal bluffs and dunes. Here, its golden blooms spill over cliffs nearly year-round, thanks to fog and mild conditions, adding iconic color to the rugged landscape and supporting pollinators.
The colorful coast
“When I look back on all of my adventures, the best moments in my life have come when I’m away from home, somewhere I’m unfamiliar with.”
Cargo and load capacity limited by weight and distribution. Always properly secure cargo and cargo area. Options shown.
WINDow to the waves
This now iconic feature has become emblematic of 4Runner’s knack for accessing wild, hard-to-reach places. It offers passengers one more way to let the outside in — and, for Hunter, another viewport for early morning surf checks and sunset views.
Traveling with longboards? Or a dog? Just like the wind in your hair? 4Runner’s power rear window may seem like a subtle design feature but it adds tons of utility to the vehicle — and a certain je ne sais quoi you can really only understand after living with it.
Options Shown.
Chasing surf often means getting off the beaten path. With 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 33-inch all-terrain tires suspended by Bilstein® monotube shock absorbers, the 4Runner TRD Off-Road is ready for when the wave hunt gets rough.
Check the Spot Less Traveled
miles paddled
wetsuit drying at all times
surf trips to the arctic circle
years surfing professionally
5
Meet Hunter Jones A professional surfer and filmmaker known for his soulful storytelling, cold-water surf adventures, and immersive edits that capture the beauty, energy, and rhythm of what it’s like to live a life connected to the ocean.
Among surfers, California’s central coast is a mysterious and wild place. On the one hand, it offers the promise of truly empty lineups. On the other, its unpredictable weather, strong currents, and remote location make scoring good waves easier said than done. For those willing to commit to the chase, the pay-off can be huge. But even if the waves don’t cooperate, you’re never truly skunked on the central coast, where wild landscapes and idyllic communities converge to offer awesome experiences on dry land, too.
SURFING THE CENTRAL COAST
The Venice Breakwater is Hunter’s home break. It also happens to be one of LA’s most popular surf spots. The breakwater, originally installed to protect the Venice pier, interacts with consistent swell to create multiple peaks which are surfable year-round, hence the crowds.
Named for Morro Rock, the landmark, gigantic volcanic plug that juts out from the sea, this small town is also home to a bustling harbor, beautiful scenery and tons of opportunities for outdoor recreation.
This iconic stretch of coastline is known more for dramatic, unspoiled beauty than its waves. But at Sand Dollar Beach, one of the largest sandy coves in Big Sur, high cliffs offer shelter from the often harsh winds to create a rippable beach break with shifting peaks and a huge playing field.
big sur
morro bay
venice beach
Far from the crowds of Los Angeles, the central coast presents its own set of challenges: strong wind, ripping currents, and rugged, difficult-to-access beaches. Hunter Jones sets off in a 2025 4Runner TRD Off-Road in search of clean, uncrowded waves along this wild and remote stretch of coastline.
Searching for empty lineups with pro surfer Hunter Jones
Alstrom Point
White Pocket
paria Canyon
