Rock crawls
Learn precise tire placement, slow-speed throttle control and how to let the truck work across uneven terrain.
Off-roading at Area 27 Motorsports Park
ZR2 Off-Road Academy
A coached 4WD experience on Area 27's Birds of Prey Off-Road Circuit, built for drivers who want a premium all-terrain experience in the South Okanagan.
CoursesBirds of Prey + Turn 7
VehiclesColorado & Silverado ZR2
Programs3-Hour & 1-Day
Take on every terrain in style
Purpose-built off-roading in the Okanagan
Introducing the Birds of Prey Off-Road Circuit, a dedicated off-road course at Area 27 created to bring technical 4WD training into the same motorsports ecosystem as the road circuit, Kartplex, Rally Kart, private events and Academy 27.
At the ZR2 Off-Road Academy, drivers explore Chevrolet Colorado and Silverado ZR2 trucks across terrain selected to teach real control: riverbed rock crawls, fallen log crossings, steep hill climbs, controlled descents, side tilts, loose gravel, sand, articulation zones and changing traction.
The point is not just to ride along with power. The experience is built around coaching, vehicle placement, throttle modulation, braking control, use of lockers and understanding how a modern 4WD truck behaves when the surface keeps changing.
Terrain and skills
Built for capability, control and confidence
The ZR2 Academy is designed for first-time off-road drivers, returning enthusiasts, corporate groups and guests looking for distinctive things to do in the Okanagan. Every obstacle has a purpose, with coaching focused on safe decisions and repeatable technique.
Log crossings
Approach obstacles with measured inputs, correct angle choice and patience instead of momentum alone.
Hill climbs
Build confidence on ascents and descents while learning where to look, when to pause and how to control speed.
Loose surfaces
Feel how weight, steering and throttle change grip on gravel and sand, with an instructor keeping the learning clean.
Articulation zones
Understand how suspension travel, wheel placement and steady throttle help the truck stay composed over changing angles.
ZR2 Off-Road Gallery
Program levels
Two ways to get into the dirt
Level 1
3-Hour ZR2 Off-Road Experience
Big adventure, small time commitment. This half-day session gives newcomers, thrill seekers and groups a focused introduction to technical off-roading in a Colorado or Silverado ZR2.
- Course rate includes vehicle rental.
- Off-road curriculum introduction with group feedback and critique.
- Refreshments provided.
- AM program timing: 8:45 AM - 12:00 PM.
June 13
July 15
August 8
August 20
Level 2
1-Day ZR2 Off-Road Experience
Confidence, control and capability, unlocked. The 1-day program builds a larger training day around coached obstacles, technical terrain and real-life off-road decision-making.
- Course rate includes vehicle rental.
- Lunch and refreshments provided.
- Navigate real-life terrain and obstacles with expert guidance.
- Program timing: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM.
May 30
June 20
July 4
August 22
September 26
October 17
Inside the day
What the coaching is built around
This is a controlled motorsports learning environment, not a vague scenic drive. The ZR2 Academy gives drivers space to understand the truck and the terrain before building speed or confidence.
Vehicle systems
Drivers learn how front and rear lockers, terrain modes, camera views, clearance, suspension travel and Multimatic DSSV dampers support the ZR2 platform.
Driver inputs
Coaching focuses on smooth throttle, controlled braking, steering restraint, vision, wheel placement and patience through technical sections.
Terrain judgement
Participants build a better feel for approach angles, surface changes, crest control, obstacle setup and recovery decisions.
Good to know
ZR2 Off-Road Experience FAQ
What is the ZR2 Off-Road Experience at Area 27?
The ZR2 Off-Road Experience is a professionally guided program on Area 27's Birds of Prey off-road course. Participants drive Chevrolet Colorado or Silverado ZR2 trucks through purpose-built terrain while learning vehicle controls, obstacle assessment, traction management, controlled climbs and descents, and off-road technique.
Do I need to be an Area 27 member?
No. The ZR2 Off-Road Experience is available to qualifying public participants, private groups, and corporate events. Pre-registration, a valid driver's license, waivers, rental documents, and the applicable deposit are required.
What is the difference between the 3-Hour and 1-Day ZR2 programs?
The 3-Hour experience introduces ZR2 systems, core off-road technique, and purpose-built obstacles in a focused half-day format. The 1-Day program adds more extensive instruction and real-world terrain, plus lunch and additional driving time. Both include the vehicle and professional guidance.
Do I need previous off-road experience?
No. The programs are designed for first-time off-road drivers as well as participants who want to improve existing skills. Drivers must follow instructor directions and be able to operate the vehicle safely.
Which vehicles are used?
The program uses specially prepared Chevrolet Colorado and Silverado ZR2 fleet trucks. Vehicle assignment and any opportunity to change vehicles depend on the course, availability, participant pairing, and the Chief Instructor's discretion.
Can I bring my own truck?
No. Personal vehicles are not permitted in the public ZR2 off-road programs. The curriculum is built around the equipment, dimensions, technology, safety systems, and capabilities of Area 27's Chevrolet fleet.
What terrain will I drive?
The Birds of Prey course includes features such as riverbed rock crawls, log crossings, steep climbs and descents, articulation zones, side tilts, gravel, sand, and other controlled obstacles. The exact route and exercise sequence depend on the program, conditions, and instructor plan.
What is the minimum driver age?
The ZR2 program has a minimum age of 18.
Do I need a driver's license?
Yes. Every driver must hold and present a valid driver's license. International licenses are accepted when they are legally valid for use in Canada. Any exception for a younger or specially qualified participant requires written advance approval.
Can I bring passengers?
Yes. Passengers are welcome with pre-registration. The current program page states that passengers must be aged nine or older, while the terms also allow a younger child who meets the applicable ICBC requirement to travel without a booster seat. Passenger eligibility should be confirmed before booking.
Will I share a truck with another participant?
Participants may be paired and take turns driving and riding. A full-vehicle buyout is available and currently includes up to four guests with a maximum of two drivers per vehicle. Confirm the exact combination of drivers and passengers during booking.
What should I wear, and is a helmet required?
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and footwear suitable for movement. Current terms state that no special safety equipment is required for the off-road portion because the vehicles and course provide the required systems. A helmet is provided and required only when a program also includes an on-track driving segment.
Is food included?
Light refreshments and snacks are included. Programs lasting more than three hours include lunch, and the current one-day ZR2 program specifically lists lunch and refreshments. Submit dietary restrictions before the event so the team can plan appropriate options.
What happens if it rains?
ZR2 programs generally proceed in rain. Activities, routes, timing, or obstacles may be adjusted, paused, or rescheduled when extreme weather or terrain conditions create a safety concern. The current terms and event communications govern any program change.
Is a damage deposit required?
Yes. The deposit is pre-authorized on a credit card and depends on the vehicle and experience. If an incident occurs, the deposit may be held while the vehicle is assessed, and additional charges may apply under the rental terms. Damage-free deposits are normally released within three business days.
Is insurance available?
Optional daily TrackGuard coverage through Acera may be available for eligible Area 27 fleet vehicles, subject to the insurer's terms and approval. Booking documents should state the participant's financial responsibility, deductible, exclusions, and available coverage options.
Does the ZR2 program qualify me for Area 27 open lapping?
No. The ZR2 experience is not a sanctioned main-circuit driving-school credential and does not qualify a participant for open lapping. Drivers seeking a track-lapping pathway should review the Academy 27 Essentials program and current ORRA 27 requirements.
Can the ZR2 experience be booked for a corporate or private group?
Yes. The ZR2 experience can be incorporated into private celebrations, team building, client entertainment, product demonstrations, or corporate events. Group size, vehicle buyouts, schedule, hospitality, other Area 27 activities, and pricing are arranged through a customized proposal.
Public experiences at Area 27
Make the Okanagan your off-road classroom
Whether you are visiting Oliver, planning a corporate motorsports experience or looking for a memorable 4WD activity, ZR2 Off-Road Academy adds a different kind of capability to the Area 27 experience.