Break the Monotony: Explore These Off-Roading Trails with Ford SUVs

When you think of taking a break from your busy schedule, does a beach holiday or spending a few days breathing in the fresh mountain air at an exotic resort are the only choices that come to your mind? How about giving off-roading a try? It’s an excellent way to become one with nature and literally choose the path less travelled. Off-roading allows you to discover more by travelling through natural terrains like sand, gravel, snow, rocks, mud and riverbeds. Sounds fun, isn’t it?

No matter the terrain, a Ford utility vehicle is ready to take on any challenges that the road might throw at you. So, here’s a look at five of the best off-roading trails in India and the best Ford utility vehicle that can get you there.

Zoji La Pass

Located in Jammu and Kashmir, this trail is a tricky one as it is at a great height. At certain spots, there is barely enough space for one vehicle to pass through. However, this route offers you beautiful views of snow-capped mountains and the Amarnath Yatra base camp. The road leading to this place, though mostly paved, isn’t for the faint hearted. The altitude will throw challenges that you least expect. Pick the Ford EcoSport to soak in the many sights the majestic Zoji La Pass has to offer. We can guarantee it’ll be totally worth the effort!

Gir Forest National Park, Route 2 – 6

This off-roading trail in Gujarat takes you through the beautiful Gir Forest National Park. This 35-odd kilometer stretch that goes from Bhambhaphod to Sasan check post allows for the sightings of the Spotted Deer, Wild Boar, Nilgai, Sambar Deer, as well as many other flora and fauna species. Ford Freestyle will be a perfect partner as you wade through forest, as you prepare for your encounter with Asiatic Lion. Gir is the only place outside of sub-Saharan Africa where you can spot this big cat in its natural habitat. Doesn’t that make for an exciting experience?

Biligiriranga Hills

This trail is moderately difficult. A 60-kilometre stretch in Karnataka, it is very popular among people living in Bengaluru. The unique part about this particular trail is that it has a little bit of everything to offer. Be it highways, small villages, and mild off-roading, you are treated to everything. The spectacular views just add to the thrill. Don’t worry about off-roading as your trusted compact SUV Ford EcoSport’s high-ground clearance will gobble up all the undulations this tricky terrain has to offer.

Bisle Ghats

Yet another scenic trail in Karnataka, this one boasts of 15 waterfalls along its route, with the trail actually passing through a waterfall at one point. What could get more exciting than this? While the approach road for the Bisle Ghats is in good condition, the actual trail is quite narrow and winding. Soak in clear blue skies and capture a dream view of water falling on your car from your Ford EcoSport’s sunroof a.k.a. fun-roof.

Kiphire-Thanamir

This one is sure to challenge you! It is one of the toughest off-roading trails in India. Wading through an 80-kilometer stretch, you will get a terrific, unhindered view of Nagaland and all the natural beauty this Indian state has to offer. The challenging terrain is no challenge for the Ford Endeavour, the most capable off-roader in its segment. Whether its snow, sand, rock or slush, choose one of Endeavour’s terrain management system modes to be at peace, no matter where the road takes you.

If you do decide to explore one of these off-roading trails, you must ensure that you’re well-equipped and fully prepared for the experience. The right vehicle can make your off-roading experience even more thrilling. Sturdy SUVs, like Ford EcoSport, Ford Endeavour or Ford Freestyle, are the best to choose when you decide to go off-roading. Here’s why:

Safety

Safety comes first, and the Ford SUV range is in full compliance. The Ford Freestyle and Ford EcoSport have six airbags while the Ford Endeavour has seven, including one for the knee apart form side and curtain airbags. This makes off-roading a very safe experience for all passengers in the car.

In the unlikely and unfortunate event of an accident on your off-roading trip, your Ford SUV’s fuel pumps will be automatically turned off and your GPS location will be shared with emergency services.

In addition, these Ford SUVs come equipped with features like Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Active Rollover Prevention (ARP), HLA (Hill Launch Assist), ESP (Electronic Stability Program) and EPAS (Electric Power-Assist Steering) that make it easy for you to tread tricky terrains.

Power

No matter what you choose, both petrol and diesel engines on these Ford SUVs offer class-leading power and outstanding fuel efficiency. The Ford EcoSport and Freestyle are powered by a 1.5L diesel motor that churns 100 PS power and a peak torque of 215 Nm while Endeavour offers to class-leading diesel motors – 2.2L delivering 160PS of power and 3.2L that generates 200PS power.

Comfort & Convenience

Last but far from least, going off-roading in a Ford SUV is sure to be a comfortable experience, given the spacious cabin and a host of intuitive, convenience features like rain sensing wipers, automatic headlamps, parking assist and keyless entries among others. These features ensure that you concentrate just on driving and enjoying the view, nothing else.

Got a break on your mind? Want to head away from the hustle and bustle of your daily life? Let the same old vacation ideas be and hop into your Ford SUV. You are then well set for an adventure of a lifetime on one of these gorgeous off-roading trails!