Quick Subaru Towing Guide (When Properly Equipped)

Numbers below reflect maximum trailer weight ratings. Payload (people & gear) reduces capacity. Always confirm in your Owner’s Manual.

Subaru Ascent towing near the coast
Ascent
Family‑size SUV

Up to 5,000 lbs

  • Ideal for bigger campers, jet boats, and gear‑heavy trips to Eaglecrest.

All trims, factory‑rated. Trailer brakes recommended at higher weights.

Subaru Outback towing a camper by a mountain lake
Outback
Alaska’s go‑to wagon

2,700 lbs (2.5L) • 3,500 lbs (XT/Wilderness)

  • Perfect for drift boats, small campers, and weekend runs to Sheep Creek.

Add the OEM hitch & 7‑pin wiring for electric‑braked trailers.

Forester towing through canyon scenery
Forester
Tall, roomy, capable

1,500 lbs (most trims) • 3,000 lbs (Wilderness)

  • Great for small utility trailers, ATVs, and pop‑ups to Amalga Harbor.

Wilderness adds cooling & gearing tweaks for the higher rating.

Crosstrek towing near a lakeside park
Crosstrek
Compact & adventurous

1,500 lbs (most trims) • 3,500 lbs (Wilderness)

  • Perfect for small skiffs, kayaks, and single‑axle utility trailers.

Factory hitch & proper loading keep it drama‑free in the rain.

Family campfire scene near a lake with a Subaru
Solterra (EV)
All‑electric adventure

U.S. tow rating: Not rated

U.S. models are not assigned a trailer tow capacity. The accessory “activity mount” is for racks—not for towing.

Subaru hitch receiver and tow ball
Impreza
Sporty hatch

Towing: Not recommended

Impreza is not designed for trailer towing. Ask us about roof/receiver carriers for bikes & cargo instead.

What You Can Tow Around Juneau

Boats & Water

Skiffs, drift boats & kayaks

Outback/Forester/Crosstrek handle small boats and gear runs to Auke Bay, Amalga Harbor, or North Douglas launches. Ascent steps up for heavier jet boats.

Camping

Pop‑ups & small campers

A lightweight single‑axle camper pairs well with Outback XT or Wilderness trims. Bigger rigs? Go Ascent for the 5,000‑lb rating.

Work & Play

Utility trailers

Haul firewood, fishing gear, or an ATV. Mind tongue weight (typically ~10% of total trailer weight) for a stable tow.

Dealer‑Installed Subaru Towing Accessories

Get it done once and done right. We use Subaru‑engineered parts for proper fit, corrosion protection, and warranty peace of mind.

Subaru trailer hitch receiver with wiring harness
Class‑appropriate hitch receivers & 4/7‑pin wiring
Hitch receiver with chrome tow ball installed
Draw bars, chrome tow balls & locking pins
Close‑up of Subaru tow ball
Weight‑distributing setups available (Ascent)
Subaru tow ball accessory on hitch
Brake controllers & install guidance

Local Towing Tips from Our Team

  • Rain‑ready: keep speeds smooth on Egan and give yourself extra distance—Subaru Symmetrical AWD + X‑MODE help, but physics still apply.
  • Boat ramps: chock wheels before unhooking, and rinse hitches after saltwater.
  • Load smart: 60/40 rule (60% forward of the axle), tongue weight around 10% of total trailer weight.

Subaru Towing FAQs

Can a Subaru Outback tow a camper in Alaska?
Yes. With the 2.5L it’s rated to 2,700 lbs; XT and Wilderness trims go up to 3,500 lbs when properly equipped. Pick a light single‑axle camper and you’re set.
Do I need trailer brakes?
If your trailer has electric brakes—or you’re near the top of the rating—yes, add a controller. It improves control on wet descents and keeps rotors happy.
Which Subaru is best for towing a boat around Juneau?
For heavier boats, the Ascent’s 5,000‑lb capacity is the call. For drift boats and skiffs, an Outback XT or Forester/Crosstrek Wilderness is a sweet spot.
Subaru towing by a mountain lake in Southeast Alaska

Let’s Match Your Subaru to Your Trailer

We live here too. We’ve launched boats at Auke Bay in the rain, hauled campers up to Eaglecrest, and we know exactly which hitch, wiring, and brake setup works best on our roads. Bring your trailer weight (or a photo of the VIN tag) and we’ll set you up the right way—no guesswork.

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All capacities shown are maximum ratings when properly equipped. Trailer brakes may be required. Towing reduces payload and range. Always consult the Subaru Owner’s Manual for model‑ and trim‑specific limits. Solterra U.S. models are not assigned a trailer tow rating; accessory activity mounts are not trailer hitches and are not intended for towing.

Photography for illustrative purposes. Content is Subaru‑exclusive and does not reference other brands, in line with Subaru advertising guidelines.