The Ford Bronco Off-Roadeo Helped Me Find My Confidence, Both On and Off-Road
After attending the Ford Bronco Off-Roadeo, I learned plenty about the SUV—but even more about myself.
Before being invited to Ford’s women-only “Ladies’ Day” as part of the Bronco Off-Roadeo in Gilford, New Hampshire, back in mid-July, I’d never given the Ford Bronco much thought before, seeing it as a cool-looking but not-for-me vehicle. I prefer practical, comfortable, and spacious.
You know how some people are just built for the outdoors? I am not one of those people. I used to downhill ski back in the day, but I don’t like to camp, rarely hike, and I prefer to be warm, comfortable, and not get eaten alive by bugs. My love for cars has always been more about the drive, the design, and the convenience features, not about conquering unpaved territory.
It only took a few hours for me to go from a skeptic to a fan. I wouldn’t say I’m an off-road convert quite yet, but I learned a lot about the capabilities of the Ford Bronco, as well as my own quick-thinking and problem-solving abilities when the going gets tough (and dirty).
This story is 100% human researched and written based on actual first-person knowledge, extensive experience, and expertise on the subject of cars and trucks. I was a guest of Ford’s, but all impressions and opinions are my own.
So, What Is the Ford Bronco Off-Roadeo?
The Ford Bronco Off-Roadeo is an immersive off-road driving experience. It’s a complimentary program for new Bronco owners, though non-owners can purchase a half-day adventure. The experience, guided by experts, teaches skills and builds confidence on various terrains at five beautiful locations across the U.S.
When I arrived, the energy was incredible. There were women of all ages, most of them recent or seasoned Ford Bronco owners. To my surprise, I was among the few younger participants in the group. I was solo at the event, but you’re allowed to bring a guest with you for the experience.
There were several mother-daughter duos and women from all over the country, even as far as California. We all shared this space, united by a curiosity for adventure and a passion for the Ford Bronco like I’d never seen or even knew existed. Throughout the day, we were all laughing, sharing stories, and just genuinely having a great time. There was a palpable feeling of empowerment, like we were all on a team, ready to tackle whatever came our way.
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And Learn to Tackle the Wilderness We Did!
The day began with some light instruction and demonstrations from the excited and passionate expert Trail Guides. As my excitement built, I felt my anxiety build, too. I couldn’t help but wonder, were they really going to just hand me the keys to a 2025 Ford Bronco Badlands? A novice off-roader? Did they honestly think I could climb a mountain in a Bronco? I know I wasn’t alone in my feelings; we’re all grappling with self-doubt and fear at this point.
The group was divided into a small convoy with a Trail Guide riding in the Bronco ahead of me. It was time to hit the trails! Approaching the first obstacle, my knuckles were white on the steering wheel. Communicating to the group via walkie-talkie, our Trail Guide was calm and reassuring, telling me what to do, but my heart was pounding.
I kept waiting for a lurch or a slip, for the vehicle to flip over, or for me to hit a tree. But the Bronco was ready and willing. It climbed over obstacles with a nonchalant ease, and its grip on the terrain was almost mystical. Every time I thought we were about to get stuck, it just… didn’t. I was truly in shock and in awe of what the Ford Bronco could do, and with what I could make it do.
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Soon, Anxiety Was Replaced With Glee and Confidence
That’s when the shift happened. Slowly, my fear melted away and was replaced with a thrill. With every hill I descended and every boulder I navigated, I started to believe in what the car could handle. And, more importantly, I started to believe in my own capabilities as the pilot of an off-roader.
This wasn’t just about driving; it was about trusting myself, pushing past my comfort zone, and conquering the unknown. I found an exhilarating self-confidence in the driver’s seat. I wasn’t just a car content creator, mom, or nurse anymore; I was a baddie in a Bronco. And, most importantly, I really liked it.
READ MORE: I Took My Son To the Ford Bronco Off-Roadeo Where He Learned About Himself, About Me and Off-Roading
I Went Home Empowered and Ready For More
The Ford Bronco Off-Rodeo was an empowering and exhilarating experience! I would highly recommend it to anyone, whether you own a Bronco (yet) or not. Beware—if it wasn’t complimentary for already Bronco owners, the adventure is one hell of a sales pitch. I would be lying if I said I didn’t come home and start shopping for a Ford Bronco of my own. Now, it’s a game between my kids and me.
My kids and I spot every Bronco on the road, shouting it out as if it were this generation’s punch buggy, no punch back. I have a touch of envy and jealousy every time I see one, because they’re no longer just another car on the road to me. They’re a symbol of the day I found a different kind of strength, both on and off-road.
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