Driver / Content Creator: Doug Stokes
Here's to the road unpaved.
Welcome
Hey there—glad you made it. GladiatorUp.com is my corner of the internet for all things adventure. Whether you’re wrenching on your rig, chasing trails on the weekend, or dreaming up your next escape, this site is for you. Here you’ll find honest gear reviews, trip reports, Jeep Gladiator related commentary, personal travel guides, and the occasional campfire song.
I believe you don’t have to quit your job or take out a second mortgage to live adventurously—you can start right where you are.
Here’s to the road unpaved.
Doug Stokes - Creator, GladiatorUp.com
About doug
Weekend warrior. Jeep guy. Storyteller.
I’m Doug—creator of GladiatorUp.com, Jeep Gladiator owner, lifelong explorer, and former touring musician. These days, I trade tour buses for trailheads, but the rhythm of the road still drives me. Here you'll find my take on overlanding-style camping, gear, and getting out there—plus a few songs from the campfire.
rides / Meetups / Events
From time to time, I host small trail rides and campouts for fellow Jeep and overland enthusiasts—simple gatherings where we swap stories, test gear, and enjoy the outdoors. I also attend and perform at select overlanding and outdoor industry events throughout the Southern U.S., sharing my music and making new friends. If you're out on the trail or at an event, I’d love to connect. Check here for upcoming plans and appearances.
here's to the road unpaved
"Here's to the road unpaved" is an expression celebrating the courage, adventure, and rewards associated with taking the less conventional, challenging path in life. Let these words be an affirmation of courage, independence, and the belief that venturing off the beaten path can lead to a more enriching and rewarding journey for those who dare to seek it.
The overland
traveler's journal
A Field Companion For Vehicle-Based Expeditions
Campfire
songs
Coming soon
overlanding in the southern USA
TX, MS, LA, AR, KY, TN, AL, GA, FL, VA, SC, NC
From Appalachian switchbacks to Gulf Coast sand, the South offers a rich mix of terrain, culture, and untapped adventure. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls in Alabama, crawling sandy beaches in North Carolina, or finding solitude near the blue waters of the Ozarks, this region is made for the weekend warrior and full-time trail chaser alike.
Explore this ever-expanding portal of routes, destinations, camp spots, and tips—organized by state and built for the overlander who craves dirt, detours, and an unforgettable view.
2025 events
Attending, performing, hosting, or presenting. Come by and say hi.
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