Ultimate Road Trips to Take in a Ford Explorer

Few vehicles are as well suited for adventure as the Ford Explorer, a midsize SUV known for its comfort, capability, and versatility. Designed to handle long distances, varying terrain, and changing weather conditions, the Explorer has become a favorite for families, couples, and solo travelers who love the open road. If you’re researching a ford explorer for sale Edmonton, you’re likely already imagining scenic highways, mountain passes, and unforgettable roadside stops. This article explores some of the ultimate road trips you can take in a Ford Explorer, highlighting routes that showcase the vehicle’s strengths while offering breathtaking experiences and memorable journeys.

Why the Ford Explorer Is Ideal for Road Trips

The Ford Explorer is built with road trips in mind. Its spacious interior provides ample legroom and cargo space, making it comfortable for both short weekend getaways and multi-week adventures. Advanced safety features, smooth ride quality, and available all-wheel drive enhance confidence across different driving conditions. Modern infotainment systems, climate control, and supportive seating help reduce fatigue during long drives. These qualities make the Explorer a reliable companion for exploring diverse landscapes and tackling ambitious travel plans.

The Icefields Parkway – Alberta, Canada

One of the most spectacular road trips in Canada, the Icefields Parkway stretches between Banff and Jasper National Parks in Alberta. This route offers towering mountain peaks, turquoise lakes, and expansive glaciers, making it a dream drive for nature lovers. A Ford Explorer’s powerful engine and stable handling are ideal for navigating mountain roads and changing weather conditions.

With plenty of space for hiking gear, cameras, and picnic supplies, the Explorer supports spontaneous stops at scenic viewpoints. Heated seats and climate control add comfort during cooler mountain mornings, while large windows enhance visibility of the surrounding landscapes. This drive perfectly showcases the Explorer’s balance of performance and comfort.

Pacific Coast Highway – California, USA

The Pacific Coast Highway is an iconic road trip that hugs California’s coastline, offering dramatic ocean views and charming coastal towns. Driving this route in a Ford Explorer allows travelers to enjoy the journey without sacrificing comfort or safety. The SUV’s smooth suspension handles winding coastal roads with ease, while advanced driver assistance features add confidence in high-traffic areas.

The Explorer’s cargo capacity is ideal for beach gear, surfboards, and luggage, making it easy to explore destinations like Big Sur, Monterey, and Santa Barbara. With panoramic views and fresh ocean air, this road trip highlights the Explorer’s ability to combine practicality with enjoyment.

Route 66 – The Classic American Road Trip

Route 66 remains one of the most legendary road trips in the world, stretching from Chicago to Santa Monica. This historic route passes through small towns, deserts, and cultural landmarks, offering a nostalgic journey through American history. A Ford Explorer provides the space and reliability needed for such a long-distance adventure.

Comfortable seating and advanced navigation systems make it easier to plan daily stops and explore off-the-beaten-path attractions. The Explorer’s fuel efficiency and ride stability help maintain comfort across long stretches of highway. Route 66 is an ideal choice for travelers who appreciate freedom, history, and the spirit of the open road.

The Cabot Trail – Nova Scotia, Canada

The Cabot Trail is a scenic loop around Cape Breton Island, known for its dramatic cliffs, ocean views, and charming fishing villages. This road trip offers a mix of coastal highways and rolling hills, making it a perfect match for the Ford Explorer’s capabilities.

All-wheel drive options provide added confidence in foggy or wet conditions, while the elevated driving position improves visibility along cliffside roads. The Explorer’s quiet cabin allows travelers to enjoy conversation and music while soaking in the scenery. With space for luggage and local souvenirs, this journey combines relaxation with exploration.

The Great Ocean Road – Victoria, Australia

For those exploring beyond North America, the Great Ocean Road in Australia offers one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives. This route features rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and famous rock formations such as the Twelve Apostles. The Ford Explorer’s robust build and advanced safety features make it suitable for navigating coastal winds and sharp curves.

Long stretches between towns highlight the importance of comfort and reliability, both of which the Explorer delivers. Spacious seating and intuitive controls enhance the driving experience, allowing travelers to focus on the stunning natural surroundings rather than the demands of the road.

Ring Road – Iceland

Iceland’s Ring Road circles the entire country, offering access to volcanoes, waterfalls, glaciers, and black sand beaches. This challenging yet rewarding road trip requires a vehicle capable of handling diverse terrain and unpredictable weather. The Ford Explorer’s all-wheel drive and ground clearance make it a strong choice for such conditions.

The SUV’s advanced traction control systems help maintain stability on gravel roads and icy surfaces. Inside, heated features and climate control provide comfort after exploring outdoor attractions. This route demonstrates how the Explorer can support adventurous travel while maintaining safety and comfort.

Blue Ridge Parkway – Eastern United States

The Blue Ridge Parkway is renowned for its rolling hills, lush forests, and vibrant fall colors. Stretching through Virginia and North Carolina, this route emphasizes scenic driving and leisurely exploration. A Ford Explorer’s smooth handling and comfortable interior make it ideal for this relaxed yet visually rich journey.

Large windows and an elevated seating position enhance the scenic experience, while ample cargo space accommodates camping gear or hiking equipment. The parkway’s numerous overlooks and trails encourage frequent stops, highlighting the Explorer’s ease of re-entry and passenger comfort.

South Island Loop – New Zealand

New Zealand’s South Island offers a diverse range of landscapes, from fjords and mountains to lakes and farmland. A loop around the island provides an unforgettable road trip experience. The Ford Explorer’s versatility supports long drives between destinations and handles varying road conditions with confidence.

The vehicle’s infotainment and navigation systems simplify route planning, while comfortable seating ensures enjoyable long-distance travel. This road trip showcases the Explorer’s adaptability to international terrain and its ability to support immersive exploration.

Planning Tips for Ford Explorer Road Trips

Preparing for a road trip enhances both safety and enjoyment. Ensure your Ford Explorer is well-maintained, with tires, brakes, and fluids checked before departure. Packing strategically helps maximize cargo space and maintain cabin comfort. Utilizing built-in navigation and driver assistance features can reduce stress and improve efficiency.

Consider planning flexible itineraries that allow for spontaneous detours and rest stops. The Explorer’s reliability and comfort support this freedom, making road trips more enjoyable and less rigid. Proper planning ensures that the journey is as rewarding as the destination.

Conclusion

The Ford Explorer is an exceptional vehicle for road trips, offering the perfect combination of comfort, capability, and reliability. From mountain highways and coastal roads to historic routes and international adventures, the Explorer adapts to diverse travel experiences with ease. Whether you’re exploring nearby landscapes or embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime journey, this SUV supports unforgettable adventures. For those considering a new travel companion, exploring options may be the first step toward countless memorable road trips and open-road experiences.