American drivers are ready to leave the pavement behind and embrace the thrill of off-road adventures, according to a recent survey by Hankook Tire. The 2025 Hankook Tire Gauge Index, conducted from April 15 to April 18, polled 1,000 drivers across the U.S. and revealed a growing confidence in tackling rugged terrains, even when Mother Nature throws a curveball. With spring and summer calling folks to the great outdoors, the survey dives deep into what’s fueling this passion for off-roading, what drivers prioritize in their vehicles, and how they prepare for the unexpected.
A Hunger for Adventure
The open trail is calling, and Americans are answering. The survey found that 70% of drivers are eager to try some form of adventurous driving, with off-roading topping the list as the most desired skill to master, cited by 34% of respondents. Forest trails are the go-to destination, favored by 31% of drivers, especially those in urban areas who are slightly more drawn to wooded paths (33%) compared to their suburban counterparts (29%). This pull toward nature reflects a desire to break free from routine and explore the untamed beauty of the outdoors.
Younger generations are leading the charge, with 85% of Gen Z, Millennials, and Gen X drivers showing enthusiasm for all-terrain experiences. In contrast, nearly half of Boomers (47%) prefer to stick to smoother roads, showing less interest in off-road challenges. For those who do venture off the beaten path, towing is a big part of the plan. Over half (59%) of drivers are keen on hauling camping gear or hitting the road with an RV or camper van. Boomers lean slightly more toward RVs (34%), while Gen Z is nearly as likely (33%) to pack their car with camping essentials for a rugged getaway.
Confidence Behind the Wheel
When it comes to handling tough conditions, drivers are feeling good about their skills. A solid 61% believe their current vehicle is up to the task for off-road driving in an emergency, with Millennials standing out as particularly self-assured—34% say they’re extremely confident in their rig’s ability to handle a crisis off-road. Towing skills also shine, with 53% of drivers comfortable backing up a trailer and 48% ready to maneuver a boat into the water.
But confidence takes a hit when the weather turns nasty. Nearly a third (32%) of drivers admit they’re least comfortable navigating icy roads or paths, with Gen Z feeling especially uneasy—four out of five say snowy or icy conditions are their biggest worry, more than any other generation. Rain, on the other hand, doesn’t faze most folks, with 84% feeling at ease driving in wet weather. Mud and rocky terrain? No problem for 63% of drivers, who report confidence in those conditions, even though only 8% have all-terrain or mudding tires on their vehicles. Interestingly, households with kids are about 9% more confident in tough conditions compared to those without, suggesting that family life might breed a bit of extra grit behind the wheel.
Gearing Up for the Journey
Preparation is key for any off-road adventure, and drivers know it. A spare tire and tools top the list of essentials, cited by 41% of respondents, with GPS coming in second at 25%. Boomers, with their years of experience, are especially practical—47% prioritize having a spare tire and tools ready, compared to just 32% of Gen Z drivers. This focus on readiness shows that seasoned drivers value being equipped for whatever the trail throws their way.
Tires are the unsung heroes of off-roading, and the survey highlights what drivers look for in their rubber. All-season tires dominate, with 45% of drivers rolling on them, far outpacing the 21% who use all-weather tires. When picking tires for off-road use, 34% of drivers prioritize all-condition capabilities, like snow handling ratings, to ensure versatility. Boomers, however, put puncture protection first, with 38% ranking it as their top concern, a nod to their practical approach to staying safe on unpredictable terrain. Meanwhile, ride comfort and stability take a backseat, valued by only 13% of drivers.
Why It Matters
The Hankook Tire Gauge Index, now the longest-running survey of its kind in the tire industry, offers a clear picture of how Americans are embracing off-road driving. Conducted by Hankook Tire America Corp., a Nashville-based leader in the U.S. tire market, the survey shows a nation of drivers eager to explore, prepared for challenges, and thoughtful about their vehicle’s capabilities. As the call of the wild grows louder, especially during the warmer months, more folks are equipping themselves for adventure, whether it’s a weekend camping trip or an emergency detour through rough country.
For those planning to hit the trails, the message is clear: know your vehicle, pack the essentials, and choose tires that can handle the job. With the right gear and a bit of confidence, the open road—and the paths beyond it—are yours to conquer.
