Exploring National Parks in AWD Vs. 4WD Vehicles

AWD Vs. 4WD—What’s the Difference?

While you may believe that all-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive systems are one and the same, that’s not exactly the case. While, yes, both systems direct power to all four wheels, the times at which this is done and the methods it’s accomplished differ. 

On all-wheel-drive applications, power is sent through all four wheels automatically. In other words, there’s no manual switching between two-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive. Torque transfers to a center differential that sends power to whichever wheel(s) require the most traction. In most cases, all-wheel-drive vehicles are best suited for loose dirt, gravel, and rough road conditions rather than demanding off-road driving. 

On the other hand, four-wheel-drive vehicles feature selectable drive types, allowing drivers to alternate between several drive modes. Most four-wheel-drive vehicles feature transfer cases actuated manually via an interior switch or lever. Basic four-wheel-drive applications typically feature three modes—two-wheel-drive, four-wheel-drive (high), and four-wheel-drive (low). In some applications, four-wheel-drive vehicles may also feature a fourth automatic mode, which utilizes computer controls to automatically alternate between two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive, depending on road conditions. 

In short, the key differences between these two systems are that all-wheel-drive vehicles automatically cycle drive types, whereas four-wheel-drive vehicles require manual input.

Four-wheel-drive is almost always preferred in National Parks or on demanding off-road trails. The selectability significantly aids wheeling and route planning—the ability to lock power to all four wheels instills confidence that a computer-controlled all-wheel-drive system simply cannot. Additionally, most four-wheel-drive vehicles feature taller ride heights and heavier-duty suspension components than their all-wheel-drive counterparts, enhancing off-road capabilities.

If our conclusion isn’t enough, consider that most National Parks feature signage limiting trail use to high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles only. Failing to adhere to these rules can land you in serious vehicular and legal trouble. The only thing worse than getting an all-wheel-drive vehicle stuck on a trail is being hit with a massive fine for doing so—talk about adding insult to injury.     

As one Reddit user found out earlier this year, National Parks make a clear distinction between four-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive vehicles. In a notice sent to the user’s residence, future violations of park rules, which specify the use of high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles exclusively, can result in legal action and up to a $5,000 fine.

Outfit Your Ride for Off-Road Usage

Now that we’ve distinguished between all-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive vehicles, it’s time to cover some of the essential products and accessories to outfit your ride for off-road use, whether on a private trail or federal land.

Suspension, Wheels, and Tires

On any off-road rig, some of the most essential components fall beneath the chassis. Suspension, wheels, and tires help to boost off-road performance in several ways, namely increasing ground clearance. Lift kits and leveling kits, when paired with performance dampers, help increase your vehicle’s ride height and, thus, ground clearance, approach angle, departure angle, and breakover angle. Each of these measurements is crucial while off-roading, preventing unnecessary trail damage. 

Additionally, aftermarket wheels and tires help to increase traction and overall performance. With premium beadlock or bead-grip wheels, you can enjoy the benefits of airing down for increased traction without the risk of blowing a bead on the trail. Oversized, aggressive tires also boost traction, allowing your vehicle to claw through and roll over even the toughest obstacles.

RealTruck Expert Pick: Superlift 3" Standard Lift Kits

Boost ground clearance with a Superlift 3” Standard Lift Kit, built proudly in the USA from premium components and materials. Superlift lift kits include everything necessary for installation. Upgrade to premium FOX or Bilstein shocks for extreme performance. 

Features:  

• Complete front and rear lift kit

• Vehicle-specific fitment

• Includes all required installation hardware

• Most kits are available with Superlift, FOX, or Bilstein shocks

• USA-made

• Limited lifetime warranty

KMC beadlock wheels and Nitto Trail Grappler tires go together like peanut butter and jelly. See for yourself with a new set of Nitto Trail Grappler tires from RealTruck, featuring a rugged design and aggressive tread blocks for maximum off-road traction and durability. 

Features:  

• Deep central siping to help decrease hydroplaning and increase traction in wet conditions

• Balanced void ratio efficiently clears mud and dirt without compromising stability

• 3-ply sidewall construction acts as an extra layer of puncture resistance

• Reinforced shoulder groove adds additional off-road performance

• Dual sidewall designs to fit your style

• Proprietary manufacturing process creates a smooth ride on highway

• Aggressive tread block arrangement

• Limited warranty

Check out the all-new 5” Round LED Lasso Light from Havoc Offroad—the leading manufacturer of premium off-road accessories for the Ford Bronco. These stylish lights pull inspiration from the Bronco’s factory headlights, promoting a balanced appearance while producing 4,000 lumens of light. 

Features:  

• Up to 4,000 lumen light output

• IP68 waterproof rating

• Designed with an impact-resistant polycarbonate lens

• Houses cast aluminum mount

• Choose with or without a wiring harness

• Limited 5-year warranty

Light up your ride’s undercarriage with the Rugged Ridge® Rock Light Kit, including four high-power white LED rock lights with integrated waterproof connectors, a four-way junction with flying leads, rubber isolators, and all mounting hardware for a simple installation. 

Features: 

• Waterproof aluminum housings

• Matte black powder coat finish

• Weather-resistant connectors

• Integrated wiring hub

• 5-year warranty

As quick and nimble as a cat, the Go Rhino® El Gato Hydraulic Jack climbs its toothed metal support like a feline scaling a tree. With durable construction, easy operation, and a lightweight design, the El Gato Hydraulic Jack is the ultimate addition to your off-road gear bag.  

Features:  

• Rugged 6062-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum body with a sleek charcoal anodized finish

• Ergonomic cast aluminum handle featuring a durable black powder coat finish

• Black anodized single action relief lever ensures controlled and safe load descent

• Convenient finger-lift access for effortless handling

• Maintenance-free hydraulic technology ensures quiet and safe operation

• Nine double-lugged locking points for unparalleled lifting strength and security

• 21-½ inches of travel

• 27-½-in.–48-½-in. lift range

• 4,400-lb. weight capacity

• 5-year warranty

Restore traction after slipping or sinking into loose terrain with the Rugged Ridge® Traction Recovery Kit, which includes two lightweight nylon recovery tracks and a compact tri-fold recovery shovel. 

Features:  

• Durable and lightweight nylon construction

• Recover vehicles up to 20,000 lbs.

• Features one pair of Recovery Tracks and a Tri-Fold Recovery Shovel

• Easily recover from being stuck in mud, sand, or snow

• Designed to be portable and ready for action

• Limited 5-year warranty