So I have a winch and now the question is how large a tree or boulder is needed as an anchor? I know there are a zillion variables, weight of vehicle, angle of slope, etc., etc., so there really is no correct answer, but it might be useful to share some success stories and some horror stories. What's your experience?

Most of the trees here in Colorado are relatively small and shallow rooted. It would be pretty easy to pull one down. Dislodge a boulder with your winch cable attached and you will get a lot of hits on You Tube!

Terry

 

I have never used a boulder for an anchor. As far as a tree goes, I would use a healthy and solid one with a diameter of 10 inches or more. The tree saver strap must be used low to the ground.

 

This is absolutely correct. You can bend the rules when it comes to anchor points....but bent rules lead to bent trees which lead to bent Jeeps.

 

I've never had to use a tree for an anchor point but I have used a standard T-post to pull an old FJ-40 cruiser out of some mud and up hill too.

So take it for what its worth, like what was stated before you can bend the rules but they will break on you sooner or later.