Emprise Posted on July 07 2022

Victorian High Country offroad adventures

Covering a large part of north-eastern Victoria, the Victoria High Country is part of the Great Dividing Range with a vast number of tracks to explore while soaking up the spectacular mountain scenery.

The High Country spans over 1.2 million acres. You can spend days or even months exploring the cultural, historical and natural wonders of the region. Known for its stunning beauty, steep mountains, an abundance of wildlife, valleys, rivers and lakes, generous camping sites and of course, thousands of kilometres of 4WD tracks, it’s no surprise that the High Country is one of Australia’s premier 4WDing and camping destinations.

Much of the area is only accessible via a 4WD, so head off the highway to the roads less travelled and have your very own High Country adventure.

Tracks less travelled

Whether you are a novice or experienced driver, there is a track to suit you ranging from easy to extremely challenging. However, one thing is for certain, sooner or later you’ll encounter some extremely steep country. The track conditions range from well-maintained roads to technically difficult and cover a diverse range of terrain including rock, sand, clay, mud and river crossings – do your research and choose one that suits your abilities. All tracks are accessible during the warmer months, however some close during winter for safety, so always check before hitting the road.

For the novice, travel up and down the well-maintained tracks surrounding Mansfield and the Circuit Road around Mount Stirling at your own pace and discover sweeping views. To add to the experience, there is approximately 50km of unsealed road that you can bump and weave along for that 4WD sensation.

If visiting the high country in the warmer months, then the Woods Point track is fairly beginner friendly and offers some sand driving along with camping sites. This track is still open in winter months, however with the chance of snow makes for a more difficult drive and snow chains must be carried.

If you want a little more of a challenge, then the Alpine National Park to Mount Stirling track is graded medium to difficult. Those who loved The Man from Snowy River will not want to miss this experience as along the track you can visit Craig’s Hut, which was used in the filming of the movie – it’s worth the stop. The stunning views will take your breath away, however the trip to the summit is rather technical with the track rocky in parts – so it’s advisable to carry your recovery gear.

Not for the faint-hearted, Billy Goat Bluff track is one of the steepest 4WD tracks in Victoria. With deep descents (1200m descent in 7km), narrow sections of track and many rocky steps, it’s recommended to carry a winch. The track and surrounding landscape’s stunning. You will pass through farmland, travel through forested areas, mountain summits and a few river crossings—definitely worth the challenge.

Within the Victorian High Country region, there are many campgrounds and free bush camping is allowed within the park. This is perfect for immersing yourself in nature and with plenty of remote places, you might not see another human being until you leave.

For those who want a little luxury after a day of thrills 4WDng, the High Country offers a range of accommodation catering to all – you just need to choose.

Organised tours

As life gets busier, many are embracing adventure tourism and wanting to get back to nature – 4WDing offers both of these.

If you don’t have your own 4WD or are just not confident enough behind the wheel to tackle the High Country tracks, you don’t have to miss out. Enjoy the adventure with a 4WD guided tour. They add to the experience with tales of their own exploits and take you to places otherwise unreachable.

There is also the option of personalised passenger tours or tag-along tours, which is when you take your own vehicle and travel with a group.

Hema Tours

If you can’t muster a ready-made convoy, join Hema Tours for a 4WD tag-along tour, full of adventure and discovery. Hema Tours are powered by the Adrenalin Offroad Centre, licensed commercial tour operators. Find out more here.

Time to plan

The High Country has an abundance of tracks just wanting to be explored for your next adventure – so research, service your 4WD and lock it in.

The track and length of time you plan to spend in the bush determines what goes on your checklist when preparing. Here are some essential items, however not limited to, that should be packed before any 4WD trips are undertaken:

Maps of area and tracks
Plenty of water
Extra clothing including wet weather gear
Communication devices with charges
First aid kit
Basic survival items
Spare tyre, repair kit and tools
Recovery equipment – at least a snatch strap and winch
Basic tool kit
Safety kit
Spare car key.

Remember always pack appropriately, only drive tracks that suit your skill level and check weather conditions as they can sometimes be hazardous, especially in the winter months, resulting in track closures.