GT 4x4 Road Trips

Exploring Victoria by 4WD

Victoria packs an incredible amount of variety into a relatively small state, and few ways reveal it better than a four-wheel drive road trip. From alpine high country and dense rainforests to wide open plains and desert tracks, 4WDing allows you to reach places that standard vehicles simply can’t — and often far from the crowds.

Whether you’re planning a quick escape from Melbourne or a multi-day adventure deeper into the state, Victoria offers tracks and terrain to suit all experience levels.

Easy 4WD Escapes from Melbourne

You don’t need to travel far to find rewarding 4WD terrain. Within an hour of Melbourne, Lerderderg State Park and Wombat State Forest provide a mix of accessible tracks, steep climbs, river crossings, and bushland scenery — ideal for day trips or overnight camping.

The Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges are perfect for relaxed weekend trips, combining scenic driving with forest tracks and nearby towns. Further north-east, the Toolangi and Murrindindi State Forests offer tall mountain ash forests, unsealed trails, muddy dips, and water crossings that test both driver skill and vehicle setup.

Venturing Further Across Victoria

As you head further afield, the landscape changes dramatically. The Grampians National Park delivers rocky climbs, clay tracks, and panoramic views, while the Mallee region introduces a more remote outback feel, including the striking Pink Lakes.

For sand driving enthusiasts, Little Desert National Park features wide sandy tracks and large dunes, making it a favourite for those wanting a different challenge. Along the coast, stepping off the Great Ocean Road into the Otways State Forest reveals a mix of easy touring routes and more demanding tracks, alongside waterfalls, lush rainforest, and excellent bush camping spots.

High Country & Alpine Challenges

Victoria’s Alpine region is a bucket-list destination for serious 4WDers. Remote tracks wind through high plains and steep mountain country, following historic routes once used by cattlemen and miners. Drives through areas linked to the Man from Snowy River, visits to old huts, and trips past long-abandoned mining sites offer a unique blend of history and challenge.

Mount Baw Baw National Park, near Walhalla, is known for its steep, technical terrain and stunning views, while iconic routes such as Wonnangatta Station, Dargo, and Grant Historic Area remain some of the most well-known 4WD adventures in the state.

Discovering the Murray Region

While off-track driving is not permitted in the Murray region’s national parks, there is still an extensive network of dirt roads and formed tracks to explore. A 4WD opens access to remote river landscapes, floodplains, and outback scenery. Towns such as Mildura and Swan Hill make ideal starting points for exploring the region, whether with your own vehicle or a hired one.

Finding the Right 4WD Adventure

Victoria’s strength lies in its diversity. From beginner-friendly forest tracks near Melbourne to remote high-country expeditions, there’s an adventure to suit every driver, vehicle, and timeframe.

Choose trips that match your experience level, prepare your vehicle appropriately, and take the time to explore — Victoria’s most memorable places often lie beyond the sealed road.