Rigs We Dig: Ride Along with Tatonka the Toyota Tacoma

September 26, 2024 3 min read

True, a dog is man's best friend, but a good adventure vehicle might be a close second. So, what happens when you combine the two? Well, that's dang near perfection. Just ask Matthew Marchal, his dog Waylon, and their built-out 2014 Toyota Tacoma. Equipped with a GFC platform and rooftop tent, this rolling basecamp has scoured the Colorado Rockies and San Juan Mountains finding the best trails, views, and camp spots along the way. Check out what went into this build as part of the latest HEST Rigs We Dig..

Your Name: Matthew Marchal aka @travelswithwaylon

Location: Golden, Colorado

Make & Model: 2014 Toyota Tacoma Access Cab with Ute Ltd Tray Bed

Nickname: Tatonka

Bed Dimensions: 90" long, 50" wide

HEST products: 2 Camp Pillows, Dog Bedfor Waylon (forthcoming)

Is this your daily driver or getaway car?

Both. It's my one and only.

What do you like most about your rig?

I appreciate the utility, function, and versatility of the entire rig. My favorite feature is the flush-mounted GFC Platform RTT with a custom sliding access hatch. Being able to stand in the truck bed and having a separate sleeping area transformed my rig from a truck with an RTT into a camper. The canvas canopy also opened (and enclosed) many opportunities for the tray bed. The canopy can be used fully secured, screened-in window mode, awnings out, or bimini style. These various configurations provide an out-of-the-weather space for accessing the sleeping area, stealth camping, gear storage, or an impromptu area for cooking and lounging.

On your average weekend adventure, what is the gear set up you bring with you? How did you integrate gear storage needs into your rig set up?

The rear seat delete allows the truck’s cab to remain loaded for weekend adventures while keeping the truckbed unencumbered for daily travel. This configuration lets me carry many essentials in the cab while providing Waylon a riding platform if there is a passenger in his seat. My essential gear includes Quantum gear boxes for cooking and camp supplies, GoTreads (for leveling and emergency traction), a Scepter 5 Gallon Water Storage Container, EcoFlow Delta 2 Portable Power Station, a Dometic CFF 35 Electric Cooler, Tenkara Rod Co Sierra Rod, a Stoke Voltaics Kettle Pot, a Cook Partner Stove, and HEST Camp Pillows.

For longer excursions, I carry two Plano Sportsman’s Trunks in the bed. These boxes hold plenty of gear and fit snugly against the bulkhead. They can also be moved back to provide space for additional items such as a folding REI Camp Prep Table, Alpacka Raft, camp chairs, coolers, and backpacks. When not adventuring, the truck is used for commuting, fetching materials, and other duties as required.

Any cool custom details you're proud of?

I can’t take credit for the Ute Ltd Tray Bed or the GFC Platform RTT, but the custom-fabricated steel hoops and canvas canopy really tie the rig together. Creating the custom sliding (and removable) access hatch that connects these two areas is what I am most proud of.

Coolest place you’ve taken your rig to?

I really enjoy exploring the trails and lakes of Gilpin and Clear Creek Counties near Denver, Colorado. However, my trip over Engineer and Imogene Pass in Southwestern Colorado has been my most memorable. The trails, terrain, camping spots, and expansive views truly highlight the enormity and ruggedness of the San Juan Mountains. Although, any day with dirt under the tires, Waylon by my side, and a HEST Camp Pillow under my head is a good one.

Any projects in the pipeline to get your rig even more adventure ready?

I currently have several projects conceptualized or in progress, including adding solar and power station charging, under-bed fuel and gear storage, a Rear hitch bumper, a Bike rack and mounts, and a gear loft.

Biggest challenge in your build out?

Although it was built in stages, the biggest challenge was maintaining the utility of the tray bed while creating a separate, accessible sleeping area above. Other considerations included weight, materials, components, removability, and build versus buy decisions.

Tips for others looking to do the same to their vehicle?

Plan your work and work your plan to create the vehicle that meets your priorities. Don’t delay using your rig just because it’s not finished or perfectly dialed in. Most importantly, get out there and chase your dreams.

Want to submit your rig for our blog? Email us at info@hest.com to get started!

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