It seems we do not need a 4x4, but I thought I read you do need one for the parks. What do you all think?

No 4x4 is needed. Most of the trucks rented through the resorts or by AB or others are more than sufficient for the Park, as long as you don't drive like a rally racer.

4 X 4's are generally used off road and for the most part folks are asked not to take vehicles in the mundi as it takes years to repair the damage the tires do to the vegetation, etc. FWD is not that popular here except when it snows of we have an ice storm...

Unless it rains hard and an off-road area gets really muddy, 4x4 would not be necessary.

e.

Off road areas are generally off limits!! Please stay on the roads or sand roads.

Thank you so much for all the great answers! -and so quick! I think we will get a regular pick up truck. (We like to stay on the road) Thanks!

donna, welcome to BT. the high ground clearance you get with a truck or jeep are more important than the 4WD. enjoy your trip

MG, I didn't mean off-road in the traditional sense. Where I'm from "roads" that are not paved are considered "off-road." So sorry for creating confusion.

My reference to off road was to places like the shortcut back from the one-way road and some areas of the park.

Thanks for correcting my faux pax.

e.

Be careful of some of the shortcuts after a rain..they tend to be loose gravel and can be a bit hairy at times..

The ground grows hair when it rains? I know some men that would be jealous!

e.