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My club (Ohio 4x4 Trailriders) out of Columbus hosts a couple of novice rides each year specifically for this. We always start them out on easy trails and give them the option to progress to slightly more difficult ones as the day progresses. Unfortunately I do have to put in the disclaimer that if you are under 18 you need to accompanied by a legal guardian just for liability reasons (again, this if for the Ohio 4x4 club not CORE). I'm sure some of the members here can help you out.
The biggest things I always tell new guys:
1. Be willing to listen and take advice from experienced wheelers (I'm not talking about yahoos who try to get into trouble). They can tell you were you should, and should not, go on the trail. I've seen both types...some freak out on obstacles that are really easy, and some think their stock Jeep is invicible and can get themselves into trouble.
2. Go on some rides with the stock vehicle and make sure you actually want to get into the sport before spending any money on modifications. Tow hooks are the only thing I would highly recommend before doing anything though.
3. If body damage, or even scratches in the paint, will really bother you then you need to think twice about taking it off-road. Most of the trails here in Mideast are wooded and "pinstriping" is extremely common in most areas. Body damage is always a possibility when combining muddy trails, street tires, and tight trails in the woods.
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