The Best Places to Go Four-Wheel Driving This Winter

Winter can be one of the best times of year to explore Australia by four-wheel drive. The tracks are quieter, the landscapes change completely and a cold night around the campfire is hard to beat.

However, winter driving also brings wet tracks, snow, reduced daylight and rapidly changing conditions. Choosing the right destination—and preparing properly—can make the difference between a memorable weekend and a very expensive recovery.

Here are some great winter four-wheel-driving destinations along Australia’s east coast, starting close to GT Offroad’s home in Melbourne.

Victoria: Forest Tracks Close to Melbourne

You do not need to travel deep into the Victorian High Country to enjoy a winter adventure. Bunyip State Park, Toolangi–Black Range State Forest, Mount Disappointment State Forest and the wider Lake Eildon region all offer four-wheel-driving opportunities within reach of Melbourne.

Depending on the area and current track conditions, drivers can experience everything from relaxed forest touring to steep climbs, rocky sections and slippery clay. Bunyip State Park is particularly convenient for a day trip from Melbourne, with classified routes catering to different experience levels.

The important word here is “open.” Many Victorian tracks close during the wetter months to protect drivers, tracks and surrounding waterways. Never drive around a locked gate or continue past a closure sign, even if the track appears passable.

The Victorian High Country

For spectacular mountain scenery, historic huts, river valleys and the possibility of snow, the Victorian High Country is difficult to beat.

Areas around Mansfield, Howqua, Jamieson, Licola, Bright and Mount Stirling are popular bases for four-wheel-drive adventures. However, winter access requires careful planning. Much of the Alpine National Park’s four-wheel-drive network closes seasonally, generally from around the King’s Birthday weekend until shortly before Melbourne Cup weekend.

That does not mean the entire High Country is unavailable. There are still year-round roads and accessible touring routes, but your trip must be planned around the tracks that are legally open. Check Parks Victoria and MapShareVic immediately before leaving because closures can begin early or be extended following heavy rain, snow, storm damage or unsafe conditions.

If your route enters a declared Victorian alpine resort during the snow season, remember that all vehicles—including four-wheel drives—must carry suitable snow chains and fit them when directed.

Southern Blue Mountains, New South Wales

For NSW drivers, the Southern Blue Mountains around Oberon offer remote mountain scenery, historic locations and genuine winter conditions.

The Oberon–Colong Stock Route provides access towards places such as Mount Werong and Yerranderie. Snow is possible in the higher areas, while cold temperatures and isolated campsites create a proper winter touring experience.

This is remote country, so vehicles should carry recovery equipment, spare tyres, adequate food and water, offline navigation and reliable emergency communication. Some routes can become unsuitable or close during wet weather, so always check NSW National Parks alerts and local road conditions before travelling.

Barrington Tops is another well-known NSW destination, but several four-wheel-drive trails close seasonally during winter. Do not assume that a popular summer track will remain accessible simply because you have a capable vehicle.

K’gari and Cooloola, Queensland

Winter in Queensland offers a completely different type of adventure. Cooler temperatures and generally more comfortable camping conditions make it an excellent time to explore K’gari or the beaches and inland tracks of the Cooloola Recreation Area.

Expect soft sand, beach driving, inland forest tracks and coastal campsites rather than mud and snow. K’gari requires a registered, high-clearance four-wheel drive, preferably with low range, as well as a vehicle access permit. Permits are also required for designated beaches and tracks within Cooloola.

Beach driving must be planned around tides and current conditions. Reduce tyre pressures appropriately, maintain smooth momentum and avoid driving through salt water. Remember that Queensland road rules still apply on beaches.

Preparing Your 4WD for Winter

No matter where you travel, winter preparation should begin before reaching the first track.

Inspect your tyres, battery, brakes, cooling system and fluids. Carry a suitable tyre deflator and compressor, recovery boards, a shovel, rated recovery equipment, a first-aid kit and basic tools. A winch can provide valuable self-recovery capability, but it must be paired with rated recovery points and safe recovery practices.

Pack warm clothing, waterproof layers, gloves, additional food and drinking water. Temperatures can fall quickly after sunset, particularly in Victoria and the NSW ranges. Mobile reception may also disappear, so download your maps beforehand and consider carrying a UHF radio, satellite communicator or personal locator beacon when travelling remotely.

Whenever possible, travel with another properly equipped vehicle and tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.

Drive to the Conditions

Wet tracks require smooth, controlled driving. Select four-wheel drive or low range before entering a difficult section, use gentle throttle inputs and avoid unnecessary wheelspin. If you are unsure about a bog hole, water crossing or steep descent, stop and inspect it on foot.

Most importantly, being equipped for difficult terrain does not mean every obstacle must be attempted. Turning around is always cheaper than recovering a damaged or stranded vehicle.

Winter rewards drivers who plan carefully. Choose an open and legal route, prepare your vehicle, respect the conditions and leave enough time to enjoy the journey.

Before your next winter adventure, visit GT Offroad for quality four-wheel-drive accessories, protection, lighting and recovery equipment to help prepare your vehicle for the tracks ahead.W