Paddles are a must and no you wont be able to make up a $100 hill with an almost stock banshee. From what i've heard, geckos hook really well over there. So did my sand sharks that i used last year. It takes alot of revs if your in thick stuff to move around, if your at a complete stop. and also DO NOT follow behind anybody, it hurts like hell. Definitly not the best feeling to be bombarded with little rocks. If you are going, i think were (jeepman128,shee4speed, and me) are meeting up for a little ride.you can join in if you want.