The Big Thing: Free Tickets, Ghost Riding, and testing the Ineos Grenadier

I made it back to the XO Overland Ranch for "The Big Thing," and once again, I didn't pay a cent for entry. Huge shoutout to the 406 Cruisers for the free tickets—I’ve officially made it a streak where I never actually pay to get into this place.

The "Classic Rover" Experience

The original plan was to roll up in a borrowed 2025 Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster. However, in true "not-a-Land-Rover-but-basically-a-Land-Rover" fashion, it was already back at the dealership for electrical issues before I could even get the keys.

So, naturally, I did the only logical thing: I drove my Fiat to an overlanding event.

Ghost Riding the Grenadier

While the Quartermaster was in the shop, I did get some seat time in the standard Ineos Grenadier wagon. It was brand new and surprisingly capable, though clearly still finding its legs.

Pro-tip for the brave: you can actually use the Hill Descent feature to "ghost ride the whip". It’s a surreal feeling watching a brand-new rig crawl down a grade without a driver, though I wouldn't recommend it if you value your insurance premium.

Portal Axles and Overland Rigs

The ranch was packed with some seriously cool overlandy rigs. I spent a good chunk of time eyeing the Grenadier on portal axles, but unfortunately, the staff wouldn't let me take that one for a spin. Trust me, I asked.

Even without the portals, seeing the variety of builds and the community out in full force made for a killer day in the Montana dirt.