Sliding tarp systems employed on trailers are disclosed. Various systems and improvements are disclosed which allow for unobstructed access to the tarp storage area and more reliable operation of the sliding tarp system. Unobstructed access to the storage area is achieved by providing extensions to the sliding tarp system tracks which the sliding tarp system support elements can be slid onto, leaving the storage area completely uncovered. The sliding tarp system track extensions can be removed or reoriented when not in use.