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Feel like a 4WD trip but don’t have a week’s leave from work up your sleeve? There are plenty of tracks just an hour or two out of the city – perfect for getting away for an adventure filled weekend. With the warmer weather just around the corner, start making plans.

4WD TREKS NEAR PERTH

Mundaring Powerline Track (40km from Perth)

The rock and clay terrain track is rutted, steep and can be dangerous when wet earning it a medium to extreme rating. Experienced four wheel drivers with a good vehicle and spotter lighting like to do this track at night but it’s not for the faint hearted. Summer day trips can be hot and winter nights can get cold and windy so think about the weather conditions before travelling out there.

Julimar State Forest (90km from Perth)

If you are looking for a challenge and to getting amongst some the native bush setting, Julimar could be for you. Tight, slow going tracks and rutted out sections keep things interesting. Some of the hill climbs and descents are rated medium to extreme so make sure you are up for the challenge. Large bog areas mean it’s not ideal for the winter months but best to travel in convey all year round here.

Harvey Dam (136km from Perth)

The terrain on these tracks is constantly changing, so there’s no chance you will get tired of the same old track. High water levels can flood some tracks so beware that not all may be passable. There are a few hill climbs and challenges for the hard corefour wheel drivers amongst you. Of course, there’s plenty of water to have a wash once you’ve had enough of the dirt. Bring your canoe. Pick up your copy of the Hema 4WD + Camping Escapes – Perth & the South West and find your trail.

4WD TREKS NEAR ADELAIDE

It seems several of Adelaide’s 4WD tracks have been closed to the public in recent years. Some are still available for 4WD club bookings otherwise, try these two areas.

Saunders Gorge Sanctuary (75 km from Adelaide)

Rough, rocky hill climbs and scenic views dominate this privately owned conservation area. The three-hour trek will take you past majestic old trees and an old gold mine. For the thrill seekers, there are four optional sections that are rougher than the main track. Bookings required.

JAKEM Farm (60 km from Adelaide)

The 4WD park has 16 tracks throughout the park, most with steep and rugged terrain. Open nine months of the year outside fire season in St Ives south of Callington, the park is also used for training emergency services and electricity crews. Grab yourself a Carto Graphics Adelaide Hills & Barossa and hit the road.

4WD TREKS NEAR MELBOURNE

Melbournians have plenty of good 4WD tracks to choose from all within a couple of hours of home.

Toolangi (85 km from Melbourne)

Mud and hills abound on well-known Rocky Track, but less notorious dirt tracks are available leading to Murrindini Scenic Reserve with its cascades, suspension bridges and walks.

Lerderderg State Park (93 km from Melbourne)

Follow the picturesque Lerderderg River with plenty of opportunities for river stops but if it’s hard off-roading adventure you’re after, try nearby Wombat State Forest. You’ll find plenty of muddy tracks here.

Marysville (102 km from Melbourne)

Whatever you want – rocks, hills, views, mud – Marysville has it all. Check out the views from Keppel Lookout or take a drive to Mt Matlock. If it’s a tree lined drive you’re after, try Big River State Forest. There are details of 20 destinations dotted around Victoria in the 4WD Treks Close to Melbourne.

4WD TREKS NEAR SYDNEY

Sydney-siders are also spoilt for choice when it comes to 4WD opportunities in the near vicinity of the CBD.

Yengo National Park (135 km from Sydney)

Part of the greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, the Howes trail offers is a 2.5-hour drive through scenic ironbark forest. There are 200 bird species to spot plus the possibility of a wombat or wallaroo.

Bridle Track (89 km from Sydney)

Following the Turon River, the Bridle Track is picturesque with valley and river views. The track was first used by stockmen and their horses in the 1800s. A rockfall saw part of the track cut off a few years ago.

Stockton Beach (180 km from Sydney)

With a valid permit, 4WD vehicles can drive on the 32 km long beach which stretches from Stockton to Anna Bay. Discover the area’s shipwreck and World War II history. 

4WD TREKS CLOSE TO BRISBANE

D’Aguilar National Park (68 km from Brisbane)

Formerly Brisbane Forest Park, D’Aguilar National Park has it all with remote gorges, waterfalls, eucalypt woodland and views of Moreton Bay. You can do it all as a day trip or stay for the weekend.

Beerwah State Forest (75 km from Brisbane)

Take your 4WD through pine plantations, eucalypt forest and rainforest with views of Glass House Mountain.

Scenic Rim Boonah (86 km from Brisbane)

If river crossings are your thing, follow an old bullock wagon track over the Condamine River. Enjoy the 400 metre Queen Mary Falls, swimming holes and picnic spots. The track is closed during rain as the river can rise rapidly.