Karen Moody’s 2013 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara, affectionately named Denali, stands as a testament to her passion for adventure and customization.
This vehicle is the most modded rig Karen has ever owned, and the investment she’s poured into it remains a secret between her and the bank! Moody says, “I recently added some custom leather seats from Katzkin, which rings true to the definition of JEEP: Just Empty Every Pocket. They’re a rich mahogany with embroidered mountains sticking to her theme and are as smooth as butta!”
Denali’s journey with Karen began in 2017 when she purchased the Jeep with only 18,000 miles on the odometer (now at 94,000 miles). The acquisition story is an adventure within itself. Karen flew from Ketchikan, Alaska down to Seattle. From there, she took an overnight charter bus to Kent, Washington, and signed the papers the very next morning. She then took a scenic route to Bellingham to catch a ferry back to Alaska. Shortly after, Karen moved to the lower 48 states, and it only seemed fitting to transform Denali into an Alaskan rig.
Together, Karen and Denali have earned several Jeep Badge of Honor distinctions from Windrock Park in Oliver Springs, Tennessee, to as far west as Moab, Utah. Karen’s favorite spot has been Ouray, Colorado, nestled in the San Juan Mountains, renowned for its rich mining history and breathtaking vistas. Despite her achievements, her bucket list still includes off-roading havens like S.M.O.R.R. (Southern Missouri Off-Road Ranch), Rausch Creek, and the infamous Rubicon Trail.
Besides off-roading, Karen has also ventured into the Show and Shine scene, which has been a new and somewhat eye-opening experience. Many of the Jeeps at these events are immaculate, never seeing dirt, with extravagant modifications like $35,000+ Hemi conversions, and are trailered from one event to the next dawning their trophies. Karen jokes that maybe if she wins the lottery, she could join that club, but for now, she enjoys the smaller, more local shows.Denali is undeniably a love affair for Karen, attracting admiration from all walks of life wherever they go.
Karen has an eye for the details, and Denali is a prime example. Take the custom MGP caliper covers, for instance. Moody says, “Just look at my custom MGP caliper covers for example. Denali’s name is engraved on every single wheel in her accent color (school bus yellow), so you know where she’s coming and going”.
Karen’s journey with Denali is a vibrant tapestry of adventure, customization, and community, showcasing not just a vehicle but a lifestyle. Every mile, every mod, and every accolade reflect her dedication and passion for the Jeep life.
Thanks for sharing Denali and your story with us Karen!
Follow Denali and Karen’s journey:
- IG: Denali_JKU
- TikTok: Denali_JKU
- FB: Driving Denali JKU
