AWD Owners Face Fines And Even Jail For Taking On 4WD Trails, National Park Service Warns
Subaru Crosstrek Owner Warned by NPS
- Subaru Crosstrek owner faces a $5k fine from the NPS over confusion between AWD and 4WD.
- The NPS warned the driver after off-roading in a vehicle not deemed suitable for 4WD trails.
- Despite the Crosstrek’s high clearance, its AWD system doesn’t meet the NPS’s requirements.
Subaru’s marketing revolves around the security and capability of its symmetrical all-wheel drive system. However, the US National Parks Service (NPS) doesn’t consider this sufficient. Recently, a Crosstrek owner received a warning from the NPS after using their crossover on a Utah trail. The NPS stated that the driver could face steep fines and even imprisonment if they attempted a similar route in their Subaru again.
The Crosstrek owner, known as u/Greatbigdog69 on Reddit, successfully completed a trail in Utah in June. However, they later received an official letter notifying them that they had driven in a restricted area.
Colorado River Overlook Road Restrictions
The letter from the NPS informed the Crosstrek owner that Colorado River Overlook Road in the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park is restricted to four-wheel drive vehicles. The owner’s Crosstrek, being an all-wheel drive vehicle, does not meet this requirement.
The NPS quoted from the Superintendent’s Compendium, stating that a “high clearance four-wheel drive vehicle” is necessary for certain roads in the area. The letter warned that future violations could result in a fine of up to $5,000, imprisonment for up to six months, and other penalties.
While the Crosstrek owner completed the trail without assistance, the NPS took action to prevent potential issues. Allowing crossover drivers on trails that their vehicles are not equipped for could lead to accidents or difficulties for other trail users.
Difference Between AWD and 4WD
The NPS defines a four-wheel drive vehicle as an SUV or truck with at least 15-inch tire rims and at least eight inches of clearance from the lowest point of the frame, body, suspension, or differential to the ground. These vehicles have a transfer case that locks the front and rear drive shafts together when four-wheel drive is engaged. All-wheel drive vehicles, like the Crosstrek, do not meet this definition.
The 2024 Crosstrek meets the clearance requirement with 8.7 inches of clearance and has 17- or 18-inch wheels. However, it falls short in terms of its AWD system. Unlike some AWD vehicles that function as front-wheel drive until slip is detected, the Crosstrek always sends power to all four wheels. While this provides stability on the road, it doesn’t make it suitable for serious off-roading.
Clarifying the Distinction
The Crosstrek owner admitted to not understanding the distinction between AWD and 4WD before receiving the NPS letter. Automakers often contribute to the confusion by offering both versions and labeling some AWD systems as four-wheel drive.
If you’re still unsure about the difference between AWD and 4WD, you can watch the video comparing Ford’s Bronco (four-wheel drive) with the Bronco Sport and Maverick (all-wheel drive).
It’s important for drivers to be aware of their vehicle’s capabilities and adhere to any restrictions in place to ensure the safety of themselves and others on the trails.
