4WD adventure in the Great Otway National Park

The Great Otway National Park is a must-see for nature lovers and adventure seekers. 4WD through lush rainforests, steep hills and unsealed roads. Managed by Parks Victoria, this park combines the ruggedness of Otway Forest Park with the vibrancy of the temperate rainforests, Mountain Ash trees and native wildlife. A 4WD journey here is not just a scenic drive through fern gullies and rocky terrain but also access to secluded spots, views and cultural heritage sites on traditional lands. For experienced drivers and first-timers alike, a 4WD trip in the Otways is an adventure, natural beauty and discovery.

Ultimate Way to Experience the Park

4WD in the Great Otway National Park is the ultimate way to experience the park’s unique landscapes and challenging terrain. With a network of tracks with steep hills, river crossings and rocky terrain, the Otways cater for all levels of difficulty, from gentle tracks for beginners to more notorious tracks for the experienced. If you want to see the parks best sites like Aireys Inlet, Erskine Falls and Cape Otway a 4WD will get you to these stunning views and rugged less worn tracks that a regular car can’t. With many seasonal road closures due to weather conditions, the 4WD adventure in the Otways is a dynamic, ever-changing experience that is always exciting.

4WD Trails in Great Otway National Park

The Great Otway National Park has some of Victoria’s most scenic and challenging 4WD tracks, from beginner to advanced. Here are a few to try:

Aberfeldy Track

Clay surfaces and narrow roads make this moderate level track a challenge for your skills and a treat for the eyes. Tight bends and steep sections have you surrounded by lush greenery and mountain scenery that makes this track unique. In the wet months the clay becomes slippery so drivers should be prepared for variable conditions. Keep an eye out for native wildlife like kangaroos and wallabies which often graze near the track.

Difficulty Level: Moderate
Features: Clay tracks, mountain views, native wildlife
Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer, when the weather is drier and more predictable

Bunyip Ridge Track

For beginners to 4WD the Bunyip Ridge Track is a great introduction. This circuit track allows beginners to get a taste of off road without too much challenge. The track is smooth and has gentle ups and downs so it’s perfect for building confidence behind the wheel. There are also several scenic spots to stop and take in the Otway’s natural beauty, including forests and fern gullies that thrive in this temperate rainforest.

Difficulty Level: Easy
Features: Loop track, straightforward
Best Time to Visit: Any time

Harrison Track and Jenkins Link Track

For experienced off-roaders only. These two tracks are steep, rocky and unpredictable, with washouts and mud patches that will test even the most experienced drivers. During the wet months, these tracks can be treacherous and are often closed seasonally to protect the environment and safety. But if you’re up for the challenge, these tracks will take you off the beaten track with panoramic views, remote wilderness and a chance to test your advanced 4WD skills.

Difficulty Level: Advanced
Features: Steep inclines, rocky terrain, seasonal closures
Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn, not during the wet season

Phantom Falls Track

It’s a local favourite. The Phantom Falls Track winds its way through ancient forests with towering trees, lush ferns and native birds. This track is a great 4WD adventure and also takes you to the beautiful Phantom Falls, a stunning waterfall that cascades into a peaceful pool. The track has a mix of terrain including some steep sections that will require some navigation. The peaceful surroundings and the chance to see one of the Otways most beautiful natural features make this track a must-do for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Difficulty Level: Moderate
Features: Forest, waterfall views, mixed terrain
Best Time to Visit: Late spring to summer

Top Sites and Stops

Cape Otway Lighthouse

One of Australia’s oldest lighthouses. Ocean views. Historic. Aboriginal rock art sites and Aire River Heritage Riverwalk. Access to the coast via Cape Otway Road. Perfect for photographers and history lovers.

Maits Rest

A short walk through a forest of ancient trees. A quick detour from the main 4WD trails. I raised my boardwalk to walk through towering ferns, dense greenery, and nature sounds.

Triplet Falls

One of the park’s most impressive waterfalls. 4WD access gets you close, but a short walk to get to the best views. Fern gullies and rainforest surround the falls, one of the Otways’ best natural attractions.

Lake Elizabeth

For wildlife lovers, Lake Elizabeth is a peaceful spot for platypuses and reflections. Off a dirt road that requires 4WD access. Perfect for a picnic and a nature escape.

4WD Tours and Rentals for the Otways

If you don’t have your own 4WD, there are many tour operators that offer 4WD tours in the Otways. These tours will take you to the Cape Otway Lighthouse, Hopetoun Falls, Lake Elizabeth, and more with a local guide. Some tours even offer camping and multi-day expeditions. Rentals are also available if you prefer to go at your own pace. Always check your rental’s guidelines for unsealed track driving and make sure it has solid all-terrain tyres, a spare tyre and durable paper maps.

Unsealed Track Driving

Driving on unsealed tracks in the Otways can be rough, from muddy clay to rocky tracks. Seasonal track closures are common to maintain track quality and protect the environment, so always check at the visitor information centre before you head out. With all-terrain or mud tyres, 4WD vehicles are better suited to the Otways’ rough terrain, which can be very rough after rain. You should have basic knowledge of special driving techniques for unsealed tracks and some 4WD experience. Make sure you have paper maps, camping gear and mud tyres, as mobile phone reception is limited in some areas.

Best Time to 4WD

The best time for a Melbourne Ocean Road Tour with 4WD adventures in the Otways is during the dry season, from late spring to early autumn. During these months, unsealed roads are more manageable, with less mud, and river crossings are easier to navigate. While winter offers a stunning landscape with waterfalls at their fullest, it also presents more challenges, including seasonal track closures, wet conditions, and slippery clay tracks. For thrill-seekers, these challenges add an adventurous edge to the experience. Always check current track conditions and seasonal closures at the visitor information centre before embarking on your journey.