The Best 4WD Tracks in Victoria: Adventure-Ready Routes for Every Driver

Victoria is home to some of Australia’s most diverse 4WD terrain. The state offers rugged alpine climbs in the High Country, rainforest tracks along the Otways and family-friendly trails just an hour from Melbourne, so whether you’re just starting out or looking for a bucket-list challenge, there’s something for every kind of driver.

So, if you’re ready to get your tyres dirty, here are some of the best 4WD tracks in Victoria. We’ve tiered these tracks from the easiest (Dusty Cruise) to the moderate (Muddy Missions and Rutted & Rugged) to the most difficult (King of the Tracks) and included tips to help you prepare for the journey.

The Best 4WD Tracks in Victoria

Victoria’s network of 4WD tracks offers a variety of terrain and difficulty. Here’s a selection of routes that highlight just how varied and rewarding off-roading in the state can be.

The Otways (Great Otway National Park)

• Difficulty: Dusty Cruise to Muddy Mission
• Why Go: Think coastal rainforest, waterfalls, and winding bush tracks. This area is perfect for families or drivers looking for beginner 4WD tracks in Victoria with rewarding scenery.
• Good to Know: Some tracks are seasonally closed — check Parks Victoria before heading out.

4x4 access beach in Otways National Park

Wonnangatta Valley (Victorian High Country)

• Difficulty: Rutted & Rugged
• Why Go: Wonnangatta is one of the most iconic destinations in the High Country, combining steep climbs, river crossings, and stunning alpine scenery. This is a remote trip, best suited to drivers with some off-road experience.
• Good to Know: Vehicle modifications (lift kits, tyres, snorkels) are highly recommended. Expect seasonal closures and changing weather conditions.

Billy Goats Bluff Track (High Country)

• Difficulty: King of the Tracks
• Why Go: Known as one of the hardest 4WD tracks in Victoria, Billy Goats Bluff is steep, narrow, and unforgettable. The views from the Pinnacles Fire Tower are worth the effort.
• Good to Know: Not for the faint-hearted. High clearance, low-range gearing, and recovery gear are essential.

Victoria High Country landscape

Toolangi State Forest (Near Melbourne)

• Difficulty: Dusty Cruise to Muddy Mission (depending on track)
• Why Go: Just over an hour from Melbourne, Toolangi offers a mix of tracks through dense forest. It’s a popular spot for day trips and beginners wanting to test their skills.
• Good to Know: Tracks vary in difficulty depending on weather. A great introduction to 4WDing close to home.

Lerderderg State Park

• Difficulty: Dusty Cruise to Rutted & Rugged
• Why Go: Located close to Melbourne, Lerderderg offers a variety of trails, from simple dirt roads to challenging climbs. It’s a good option for drivers wanting to ease into off-roading.
• Good to Know: Watch for river crossings — conditions can change after rain.

4wd track in bush surrounded by gum trees

Big River State Forest

• Difficulty: Dusty Cruise to Muddy Mission
• Why Go: Featuring river crossings, bushland trails, and great camping spots, Big River is a fantastic weekend destination.
• Good to Know: Tracks are relatively forgiving but still require caution in wet conditions.

Aberfeldy Track

• Difficulty: Rutted & Rugged
• Why Go: A historic goldfield route that winds through rugged terrain, river crossings, and mountain views. A long but rewarding drive.
• Good to Know: Suited to experienced drivers with recovery gear.

Beginner-Friendly 4WD Tracks in Victoria

If you’re just getting started, Victoria has plenty of Dusty Cruises and Muddy Missions near Melbourne and beyond. These routes offer a chance to build confidence and get your head around the unspoken rules of 4WD tracks while still delivering great scenery.

• Toolangi State Forest and Lerderderg State Park are ideal for day trips from Melbourne.
• The Otways provide gentle trails paired with coastal views and family-friendly campsites.
• Big River State Forest offers beginner tracks with a sense of adventure, especially for families wanting to test the waters.

Beginner Tips:

• Always check track conditions before heading out.
• Carry recovery basics (snatch strap, shovel, traction boards).
• Travel with another vehicle where possible.
• Make sure your 4WD is properly maintained.

The Hardest 4WD Tracks in Victoria

For seasoned off-roaders, Victoria’s High Country is where challenges worthy of the King of the Tracks title await.

• Billy Goats Bluff Track: Infamous for its steep gradient and relentless climbs.
• Blue Rag Range Track: Another High Country gem, with panoramic views at the summit but serious technical demands along the way.
• Wonnangatta Valley Access: Getting in and out is no small feat, involving steep tracks and multiple river crossings.

4wd and 2 swags on a mountain in high country

These Rutted & Rugged and King of the Tracks adventures demand preparation:

• Tyres with strong sidewalls
• Low-range gearing
• Winches and recovery points
• Radios for convoy communication

Taking on Victoria’s hardest 4WD tracks isn’t just about skill; it’s about being ready for the unexpected.

Practical Resources and Planning Tips

Before you set off:

• Maps: Carry a physical 4WD tracks Victoria map as well as GPS or apps like Hema Maps.
• Check Conditions: Weather, closures, and fire bans can all affect access. Parks Victoria provides up-to-date info.
• Permits: Some areas require permits or seasonal passes.
• Gear: Recovery gear, first aid kits, radios, and plenty of water are non-negotiable.
• Travel Smart: Let someone know your plans, especially for remote tracks.

man posing with 2 recovery boards on a beach with a 4wd behind him

The Last Stop

From cruisy forest trails to the climbs in the High Country that’ll make you King of the Tracks, Victoria has something to challenge and inspire every off roader. Tackling these tracks isn’t just about the drive — it’s about the memories, the challenges, and the freedom of going beyond the blacktop.