Top Subaru Models for Delaware Water Gap Drives
Straddling the border between Pennsylvania and New Jersey, the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania. Besides great hiking, camping, and fishing, this massive park also offers fantastic opportunities for off-roading. Check out this guide to discover the best Subaru models for driving through the Delaware Water Gap.
Why Subaru Models Excel for the Delaware Water Gap
Whether you're planning to take on easy or challenging trails in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, you can rely on a Subaru off-road SUV to get the job done. Featuring rugged construction, Subaru vehicles are extremely tough and capable of withstanding serious off-roading. They also have a higher ground clearance than most of their competitors, allowing them to travel over bumps, ruts, and fallen trees with ease.
The cornerstone of Subaru's off-road success is the iconic Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. This revolutionary system distributes power evenly across all four wheels simultaneously, resulting in superior stability and traction. From muddy paths to steep inclines, it delivers unmatched balance and control on all kinds of off-road terrains. In addition, the X-MODE traction control system further enhances the capabilities of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive for tougher terrains.
Another thing that makes Subaru SUVs excellent off-road vehicles is the availability of the Wilderness trim. Specially designed for off-roading, this model features increased ground clearance, improved approach and departure angles, an upgraded suspension, all-terrain tires, dual-function X-MODE, and skid plates. With these upgrades, a Wilderness model can handle whatever the Delaware Water Gap throws at it.
Overview of the Delaware Water Gap Terrain and Driving Conditions
The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area encompasses about 70,000 acres of lush forests on the banks of the Delaware River. Its main attraction is the Delaware Water Gap, a deep cleft that cuts through Kittatinny Mountain. Surrounding this unique geological feature are numerous trails catering to both novice and experienced off-road enthusiasts. Some popular ones include Balish Road, Greentown Sale Road, Montage Road, Ore Mine Road, and River Road.
The off-road trails in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area can vary greatly in terms of terrain and difficulty. Some trails are fairly well-traveled dirt or gravel roads, while others can be narrow, muddy, or rocky. Depending on which trail you choose, you can expect to encounter a wide variety of obstacles, including washouts, slippery inclines, soft sand, rock ledges, and downed trees and branches. Wet weather can cause landslides and deep puddles.
Key Features Desired in Vehicles for Exploring the Region
The vehicle features you need to explore the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area depend on the difficulty level of the trail. If you're doing a light or moderate off-road trail, a vehicle with a high ground clearance and all-wheel drive should suffice. Extreme trails require specialized off-road features, such as extra ground clearance, an off-road-tuned suspension, all-terrain tires, and skid plates. Additionally, a powerful engine is necessary for tackling deep mud or sand, large rocks, and steep inclines.
Top Subaru Models Ideal for Driving Through the Delaware Water Gap
Subaru's off-road performance is among the best in the auto industry. While most Subaru vehicles perform reasonably well away from the pavement, there are a few standouts that deliver serious off-road chops. Let's take a look at the best off-road crossovers and SUVs from Subaru.
Subaru Outback
The Outback is widely regarded as the best Subaru for the outdoors. This midsize SUV comes standard with 8.7 inches of ground clearance, a 182-horsepower four-cylinder engine, all-wheel drive, X-MODE, and hill-descent control. As such, every Outback model is a capable off-roader. However, if you're looking for the most fun Subaru to drive off the beaten path, go for the Wilderness. The off-road-focused Outback boasts a whopping 9.5 inches of ground clearance and a 260-horsepower turbo-four engine, among other upgrades.
Subaru Forester
If you want to get an SUV that performs well both on and off the road, the Forester is a great option. The compact crossover is equipped with a well-tuned suspension that delivers confidence-inspiring stability and control in just about any driving situation. Currently, there's no Subaru Forester modified off-road model. Nevertheless, the SUV doesn't disappoint in the dirt, thanks to its agile handling, potent engine, and standard all-wheel drive. Higher trims are fitted with dual-function X-MODE.
Subaru Crosstrek
As the smallest Subaru SUV, the Crosstrek can squeeze between trees on narrow trails and bounce around on rough surfaces at the Delaware Water Gap. Its 8.7 inches of ground clearance is more than enough for traveling over small rocks and shallow ruts. For more challenging terrain, the Crosstrek Wilderness can go almost anywhere. One of the most appealing aspects of the Subaru Crosstrek is its affordable price. This makes it ideal for those getting started with off-roading.
Subaru Ascent
Searching for the best family off-road vehicle? You won't go wrong with the Subaru Ascent. This three-row SUV can accommodate up to eight passengers, allowing you to bring your entire family along on your off-road adventures. With the ability to haul up to 5,000 pounds, it's also the best Subaru for towing.
The Subaru Ascent's off-road performance is well-suited for exploring most trails in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Like other Subaru SUVs, the Ascent offers all-wheel drive and X-MODE as standard. Also, it's available with a surround-view camera system, which can be useful in tight off-road situations.
Find Your Dream Subaru Off-Road SUV in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania
If you're looking for a Subaru off-road vehicle that can tackle the trails around the Delaware Water Gap, visit Ertle Subaru to tour our fantastic selection of adventure-ready Subarus. You're sure to find a model that perfectly matches your budget and lifestyle in our fully stocked Subaru inventory. We offer great prices, promotions, and financing deals to ensure you'll get an unbeatable deal. Contact us today to schedule a test-drive.