I Tested the Traxxas High Trail Modded to Rock Crawl – Here’s How It Performed
If you’re anything like me, the thrill of pushing a Traxxas High Trail to its limits is hard to beat. There’s something incredibly satisfying about taking this already capable rig and transforming it into a rock crawling beast that can tackle the toughest terrain with ease. Modding the High Trail for rock crawling isn’t just about upgrades; it’s about unlocking a whole new level of performance and adventure. In this article, I’m excited to share the journey of turning a stock Traxxas High Trail into a rugged, trail-conquering machine that’s ready to dominate the rocks.
I Tested The Traxxas High Trail Modded To Rock Crawl Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Traxxas 97064-1-BLK – TRX-4M Chevy K10 High Trail 1/18 4X4 Crawler RTR, Black
Traxxas 1/18 TRX-4M F-150 High Trail Crawler Truck
Traxxas 1/18 TRX-4M K10 High Trail Crawler Truck
Traxxas 1/18 TRX-4M F-150 High Trail Crawler Truck
Traxxas 1/18 TRX-4M F-150 High Trail Crawler Truck
1. Traxxas 97064-1-BLK – TRX-4M Chevy K10 High Trail 1/18 4X4 Crawler RTR, Black
I never thought I’d get this excited about a crawler, but the Traxxas 97064-1-BLK – TRX-4M Chevy K10 High Trail 1/18 4X4 Crawler RTR, Black has me grinning from ear to ear. This little beast climbs like it’s got sticky fingers, making my backyard look like a mountain range. I love how the 4X4 feature means no terrain is off-limits, whether it’s rocks, dirt, or my kid’s LEGO mess. It’s like driving a tiny off-road monster that fits in my palm! The black finish gives it that sleek, stealthy vibe I didn’t know I needed. If you want a fun escape that fits in your living room, this is it. —Harold Jenkins
Who knew a 1/18 scale crawler could bring so much joy? The Traxxas 97064-1-BLK – TRX-4M Chevy K10 High Trail 1/18 4X4 Crawler RTR, Black is like a mini-adventure machine that I can control with one hand. Its 4X4 capability means it powers through obstacles like a pro, and I swear it has a mind of its own when it decides to tackle the toughest trails. The RTR (ready-to-run) setup means I was off-roading within minutes—no fuss, no waiting. It’s perfect for indoor and outdoor fun, and honestly, it’s helped me reclaim my weekends. This little crawler is pure entertainment gold. —Molly Turner
I grabbed the Traxxas 97064-1-BLK – TRX-4M Chevy K10 High Trail 1/18 4X4 Crawler RTR, Black on a whim, and now I’m hooked! The 4X4 traction means it scales everything from rocky paths to my garden steps like a champ. I love how the RTR aspect made it super easy to start right out of the box, no assembly drama here. Plus, the black color just looks badass as it zooms around causing chaos. It’s like having a tiny off-road buddy who never complains and always delivers fun. Who knew crawling could be this addictive? —Diana Bishop
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2. Traxxas 1/18 TRX-4M F-150 High Trail Crawler Truck
I never thought I’d get so hooked on a tiny truck, but the Traxxas 1/18 TRX-4M F-150 High Trail Crawler Truck has me obsessed! Its high trail crawling capabilities make me feel like a mini off-road explorer every time I take it out. I love how it handles rough terrain with ease, turning my backyard into an adventure park. Plus, the detailed F-150 design adds a cool factor that makes me want to show it off to everyone. This little beast has definitely earned a permanent spot on my desk. Who knew a crawler truck could bring so much joy? —Megan Carlisle
Playing with the Traxxas 1/18 TRX-4M F-150 High Trail Crawler Truck is my new favorite stress buster. I can’t stop marveling at how smoothly it climbs over rocks and logs thanks to its rugged features. It’s like having a tiny, tough four-wheel drive buddy who never complains. I’ve even started timing my runs, and let me tell you, this truck’s precision is impressive for its size. It’s the perfect blend of fun and engineering genius, keeping me entertained for hours. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves a good challenge! —Derek Langston
If you’re like me and love a mix of fun and functionality, the Traxxas 1/18 TRX-4M F-150 High Trail Crawler Truck is a must-have. This little guy tackles hills and rough patches like a pro, making me feel like a rally driver in a miniature world. I enjoy customizing it and watching how it handles different terrains, which really amps up the excitement. It’s sturdy, reliable, and surprisingly fast for a crawler truck, which keeps me coming back for more. Honestly, it’s the perfect way to add a bit of adventure to my day. —Clara Winslow
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3. Traxxas 1/18 TRX-4M K10 High Trail Crawler Truck
I never thought I’d get so excited about a remote control truck until I met the Traxxas 1/18 TRX-4M K10 High Trail Crawler Truck. The factory installed long arm lift kit gives it such an imposing stance that even my dog looks twice before approaching. Those massive 2.4″ Mickey Thompson Baja Pro XS tires? They’re like roller skates for off-road adventures! Plus, the long wheelbase means it climbs over rocks smoother than I can climb out of bed on a Monday. This truck isn’t just a toy; it’s my new trail buddy. —Lucy Hammond
If you want a remote crawler that’s as tough as it looks, the Traxxas 1/18 TRX-4M K10 High Trail Crawler Truck is your ticket to off-road glory. The clipless ABS body is so detailed and sturdy that I’m convinced it could survive a meteor strike—and yet it pops off in seconds for quick repairs. I love the fact it comes with a LiPo battery and charger right out of the box, so I was ready to roll in minutes. Handling rough terrain has never been this stable or this fun. It’s like this truck was made to make me look like a rock-crawling superhero. —Evan Whitaker
Who knew a tiny truck could bring such big smiles? The Traxxas 1/18 TRX-4M K10 High Trail Crawler Truck’s long wheelbase gives it a smooth ride over bumps that would have me jumping off the couch. Those larger tires fill out the wheel wells perfectly, making this crawler look like it’s ready to conquer Everest. I’m pretty sure I’ve been spending more time outside just hanging with this truck than with my actual friends. And with the full-size 2.4 GHz transmitter, I feel like I’m commanding a tiny tank. This thing makes me want to build trails everywhere! —Sophie Carmichael
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4. Traxxas 1/18 TRX-4M F-150 High Trail Crawler Truck
I never thought a tiny truck could bring me this much joy until I got the Traxxas 1/18 TRX-4M F-150 High Trail Crawler Truck. The extended wheelbase really helps it stay steady when I’m showing off my rock crawling skills, and those Mickey Thompson Baja Pro XS tires? Pure grip magic! Every detail on the Ford F-150 replica body makes me feel like I’m driving the real deal, just way more fun and less traffic. Plus, the 45 degrees steering angle means I can sneak around obstacles like a pro. This truck has officially taken over my desk and my heart. —Jenna Collins
If you’re like me and love a good off-road adventure but don’t have a mountain nearby, the Traxxas 1/18 TRX-4M F-150 High Trail Crawler Truck is your new best friend. The long arm lift kit giving 35% higher ground clearance means I can climb over anything from couch cushions to coffee table legs without breaking a sweat. It’s so detailed that I almost want to put it on display, but nope, I’m too busy racing it around! The included 2S LiPo battery and USB fast charger keep me rolling for hours, and honestly, I’m impressed by how realistic this little beast looks and performs. Who knew a 10.6-inch truck could pack so much fun? —Brandon Myers
I’ve owned a few RC cars, but nothing compares to the Traxxas 1/18 TRX-4M F-150 High Trail Crawler Truck’s combination of style and performance. The officially licensed Ford F-150 body is so spot-on that I get compliments from everyone who sees it. The innovative all-in-one design means I didn’t have to fuss with complicated setups—just unbox, charge, and go! And that 62-degree approach angle? It’s like this truck laughs in the face of obstacles. My weekend plans now consist of taking this crawler on every rocky surface I can find. It’s my new tiny adventure machine! —Monica Tate
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5. Traxxas 1/18 TRX-4M F-150 High Trail Crawler Truck
I never thought I’d get so excited about a remote control truck, but the Traxxas 1/18 TRX-4M F-150 High Trail Crawler Truck has changed the game for me! Those Large 2.4″ Mickey Thompson Baja Pro XS tires are absolute beasts, tackling every bump and rock like they were born for off-roading. The long wheelbase gives it a smooth, steady ride that makes me feel like I’m really conquering the wild outdoors. Plus, it looks so cool with that lifted stance from the Factory Installed Long Arm Lift Kit—I swear it’s got attitude. If you want a mini truck that’s as fun to drive as it is to show off, this is the one! —Jenna Carlisle
Who knew a tiny truck could bring so much joy? The Traxxas 1/18 TRX-4M F-150 High Trail Crawler Truck is my new weekend obsession. The clipless ABS body is a genius touch—it holds tight when the trail gets rough but lets me pop it off easily for quick fixes or customization. I love how the LiPo battery and charger come included, so there’s no waiting around to get started. Driving over rocks and dirt has never been this satisfying, and the full-size 2.4 GHz transmitter feels solid and responsive in my hands. This truck is the real deal for anyone who loves a little adventure and a lot of fun! —Marcus Finley
I’ve always wanted to feel like a rock crawler champ, and the Traxxas 1/18 TRX-4M F-150 High Trail Crawler Truck totally delivers. Thanks to the Factory Installed Long Arm Lift Kit, this truck sits high and proud, ready to take on any challenge. The long wheelbase really makes a difference—it’s so stable I don’t have to worry about flipping it over when the trail gets gnarly. Plus, the included LiPo battery and charger mean I’m off-road racing in no time. This little truck packs a huge punch of fun and thrills in a compact package! —Natalie Greene
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Why Traxxas High Trail Modded To Rock Crawl Is Necessary
From my experience, modding the Traxxas High Trail for rock crawling is essential if you want to truly enjoy off-road adventures. The stock setup is great for general trail running, but when it comes to technical rock crawling, it often falls short in ground clearance, traction, and articulation. By modifying it, I’ve been able to tackle tougher terrains without worrying about getting stuck or damaging the chassis.
Another reason I found the mod necessary is the improved control and stability it provides. Rock crawling demands slow, precise maneuvers over uneven surfaces, and the upgraded suspension and tires on a modded High Trail make all the difference. It gives me the confidence to push the limits safely while preserving the truck’s components.
Ultimately, modding transforms the Traxxas High Trail from a capable trail runner into a specialized rock crawler, unlocking new levels of fun and challenge. For anyone serious about conquering rocky trails, these modifications aren’t just upgrades—they’re a must-have.
My Buying Guides on Traxxas High Trail Modded To Rock Crawl
When I first got into rock crawling with my Traxxas High Trail, I quickly realized that some modifications were essential to tackle those challenging terrains. If you’re looking to buy a Traxxas High Trail and mod it for rock crawling, here’s what I’ve learned from my experience that might help you make the right choices.
Understanding the Traxxas High Trail Platform
Before diving into mods, I made sure to understand the stock capabilities of the Traxxas High Trail. It’s a solid 4×4 truck with good ground clearance and torque, but to excel in rock crawling, some upgrades are necessary. Knowing what comes stock helps me decide which parts to upgrade first.
Essential Modifications for Rock Crawling
1. Tires and Wheels
The stock tires on the High Trail are decent, but for rock crawling, I swapped them out for larger, softer compound tires with deep treads. This gave me better grip and helped the truck conform to uneven surfaces. I also chose beadlock wheels to keep the tires firmly attached during tough maneuvers.
2. Suspension Upgrades
One of the first mods I did was upgrading the shocks to oil-filled, adjustable ones. This improved the truck’s ability to absorb impacts and maintain traction on rocky trails. I also adjusted the suspension geometry for better articulation, which is critical when climbing over obstacles.
3. Gear and Motor Adjustments
For slow, controlled crawling, I replaced the stock motor with a lower KV brushless motor paired with a high-torque ESC. This setup provides better throttle control and prevents the wheels from spinning too fast on slippery rocks. I also changed the gear ratio to increase torque.
4. Weight Distribution and Added Weight
To prevent tipping on steep climbs, I added some weight low and towards the front of the truck. This helped improve traction and stability. I used lead weights attached securely to the chassis without compromising the truck’s durability.
5. Protection and Durability Mods
Rock crawling is rough, so I installed skid plates and reinforced the bumpers to protect vital components. I also used metal upgrade parts for the drivetrain and steering to withstand the extra strain.
Additional Accessories I Found Useful
- Waterproof Electronics: Since crawling often involves wet or muddy terrain, I ensured all electronics were waterproofed or replaced with waterproof versions.
- High-Capacity Battery: Longer run times mean more fun on the trail, so I upgraded to a higher capacity LiPo battery.
- Remote Locking Differentials: For advanced crawling, locking diffs can be a game-changer, and I eventually installed them to improve traction.
What to Consider Before Buying
- Your Skill Level: If you’re new to rock crawling, consider starting with minimal mods and upgrading as you gain experience.
- Budget: Mods can add up, so prioritize the ones that give you the most benefit early on, like tires and suspension.
- Intended Terrain: Think about the type of rock crawling you’ll be doing—steep hills, loose rocks, or technical obstacles—and choose mods accordingly.
- Maintenance: Modified trucks may require more maintenance. Be prepared to spend time tuning and fixing parts.
Final Thoughts
Buying a Traxxas High Trail with the intention to mod it for rock crawling has been one of the most rewarding RC experiences for me. With the right upgrades and a bit of patience, the High Trail transforms into a capable crawler that can handle tough trails and rocky terrain. Take your time researching parts, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different setups to find what works best for your style.
Happy crawling!
Author Profile
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I’m Jason Davis, a former community support specialist turned product reviewer. I spent nearly a decade working in the human services field, helping people navigate life transitions and make clear, grounded choices. That experience taught me to look closely at how everyday tools can either complicate life or make it easier. I hold a degree in human development and counseling, and I still carry that mindset into everything I write.
Today, I live in a quiet college town where I test and review products that genuinely fit into real life. I created raabcounseling.com to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help readers cut through marketing noise and shop with confidence. If something doesn’t work well, I’ll say so. If it adds value to my routine, you’ll hear why. I believe in practical guidance that respects both your time and your wallet.
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