I just thought I would share an experience that I think some might be interested in. I have been interested in learning what off-roading (wheeling) is all about. My Durango has been in the family since December 2001 and it has been great. Recently I put the bell tech shackles on the rear and cranked up the torsion bars after replacing all of the front end suspension parts. Then a buddy took me to Uwharrie National Forest for my first experience wheeling. I took my 10 year old daughter to see if it could be a family activity.

We did 3 or 4 trails ranging from easy to moderate (not Daniel) and the Durango did beautifully. I have Cooper AT3 tires in the stock 31" size aired down to 15psi. I mostly used 4wd Low to let the engine creep the truck through the trails which meant I was the slowest one in the group but I was okay with that. The D did everything I asked it to do and never lost traction. The limited slip in the rear provided plenty of grip with the front adding to the steering grip that was needed.

We use this vehicle as the "family hauler" so didn't want to bash it up and was very cautious. even so, I over heard several on lookers and spotters talking about how surprised/impressed they were with the performance capability of this truck. With the T/S lift it is roughly the same specs as a JKU.

My daughter and I had so much fun, I am now shopping for a dedicated trail vehicle but the D did a wonderful job. If it was to use my Durango off-road, I would add skids and rock rails before doing it again as I had a few undercarriage strikes. Thankfully, all of the contact was either on the crossmember or the shackle mounts.

 

I've been up to Uwharrie with my parents and their JK. I took the Durango up there too (hauled the camping gear), but didn't get to take it on the trail (long story involving us nearly shooting some drunk jackass at the campground).

I don't remember what all the trails we went on were, but I think the Durango would have done ok on most of them, except Daniel of course.