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Whether you’re looking to take a scenic drive off the beaten track or put your 4X4 skills to the test on rough terrain, our list of the top 10 offroad tracks in Tasmania will allow you to experience the best of what this great state has to offer.
4WD in Tasmania: What to Expect
With some of the best national parks, forests and beaches in Australia, it’s easy to see how Tasmania has become one of the most beautiful and unique places to explore in our great country. From its pristine beaches to its snow-capped mountain ranges to the stunning wilderness, Tassie is known as the 4WD destination to visit when you’re looking to experience all kinds of 4X4 tracks. Most of the locations on our list have some fantastic camping facilities, which are ideal for those travelling in a convoy or with family.
Remember, every season can change the conditions of a track. If you’re visiting Tassie in winter and are unsure if a specific trail is safe for you to drive on, it is vital that you get in touch with the local land management agency, listed on the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service website ahead of time! Please note that all tracks will require a Parks Pass to enter and drive, while some will require you to carry a 4WD permit.
Conservation is key while off-roading in Tasmania
What makes the off-road experience in Tasmania so magical is its focus on preservation. It is essential that you follow the rules and instructions carefully while out on these tracks in order to maintain the natural terrain and native vegetation surrounding the trails. Of course, this is important on any track or trail in Australia, but it is particularly worth noting in Tasmania. Conservation is also essential for protecting Tasmanian wildlife, especially around heavy and noisy 4X4 vehicles.
As such, it is important to remain conscious while out exploring the Tassie wilderness. Stick to the tracks, take all your rubbish with you, and never damage or remove the native flora and fauna along these trails. We must all do our part to maintain and preserve Tasmania’s temperate wilderness regions, which are some of the last to exist on earth!
Remember, Safety Always Comes First!
All 10 off-road tracks listed below have been categorised into 3 difficulty levels: easy, moderate and hard. No matter which level of proficiency you are, we recommend going in a convoy of 4WD-capable vehicles with appropriate tyres, preferably all terrains, and recovery gear. Please note that hard tracks are only suitable for those who have the experience and skill set to deal with deep, muddy sections, soft sand, and large, steep slopes.
Tasmania only allows licensed and registered drivers in roadworthy vehicles on their 4WD tracks.
See Tasmania Like Never Before By Tackling These 10 4WD Tracks!
East West Trail
Location: Wellington Park
Difficulty: Hard
Distance: 20 km
How long will it take to complete: Approx. 4 hours
Terrain: Rocky slopes, soft sand and mud bogs
Requirements: 4WD permit and Parks Pass
The East West Trail in Wellington Park is a thrilling experience that will keep you on the edge of your seat. As one of the most challenging trails, 4WD enthusiasts will thoroughly enjoy it from start to finish. Located in one of Tasmania’s most beautiful alpine areas, you will start off in Montrose, driving over Wellington Range, into Jeffery's Track and finishing in the Huon Valley.
Drivers can expect unpredictable track conditions, weather, and a wide range of exciting climbs on rocky slopes, soft sandy sections, and large bogs that will require your knowledge and experience to tackle. This type of track should be driven in a convoy, with a maximum of 6 vehicles allowed.
South Bruny Range Track
Location: Bruny Island
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 24 km
How long will it take to complete: Approx. 1 -2 hours
Terrain: Sand, beach
Requirements: Parks Pass
For the ultimate, scenic drive through Tasmania’s beautiful beaches and hinterland, the South Bruny Range 4WD Track is the perfect track for you. Suitable for drivers who are looking to go for it on their own or with their family in tow, this track can be completed in one vehicle with little to no experience driving on sandy tracks.
From the free beach camping spots to the fantastic fishing and surfing spots to the gorgeous hiking trails and coastal views, the South Bruny Range Track is one of the most peaceful places you can visit in Tassie.
Fortescue Bay Track
Location: Tasman National Park
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 12 km
How long will it take to complete: Approx. 15 minutes
Terrain: Dirt tracks, forest
Requirements: Parks Pass
If you’re looking to get a taste of what Tassie’s 4WD tracks can offer, we would highly recommend taking your vehicle along the Fortescue Bay Track. Designed for drivers who are just starting their 4WD journey or looking to experience a drive without risking their vehicle, this track can provide you with a short ride through one of Tasmania’s oldest working forests. Expect great spots for fishing, camping, and exploring on foot.
Borradaile Plains Track
Location: Borradaile Plains
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 18 km
How long will it take to complete: Approx. 1 hour
Terrain: Forest, heavy mud and clay (during the winter season)
Requirements: Parks Pass
If you’re looking to take in some of the best views Tasmania has to offer, the Borradaile Plains Track is the most ideal track for you. Located in the state forest, drivers will start off at the Lemonthyme power station, traversing through the picturesque landscape, and ending at Bare Hill road. Take your time and enjoy the drive, keeping an eye out for any wildlife along your journey.
If there has been any rainfall before your scheduled visit, we recommend approaching with caution as this track is prone to flooding.
Balfour Track
Location: Near the Northwest Coast/ Tarkine
Difficulty: Hard
Distance: 18 km
How long will it take to complete: Approx. 2-3 hours
Terrain: Forest- mud, rock and dirt, water crossing
Requirements: 4WD permit and Parks Pass
Often considered one of the hardest off-road tracks in Australia, the Balfour Track will be a challenge for Australia’s most skilled and experienced 4WD fanatics! Located next to Tarkine, the second largest temperate rainforest in the world, this track will put your vehicle to the test as you traverse steep rocky slopes, and dirt and mud-covered trails. There is a significant water crossing located on this track, so make sure your vehicle is equipped with an elevated snorkel.
Drivers can also hop out of their vehicles along the way and check out Balfour’s once-thriving abandoned mining town.
Please note that the Balfour Track is located in a nature conservation area. It is essential that you report to the Parks Office before heading out.
Ocean Beach
Location: West Coast
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 30 km
How long will it take to complete: Approx. 1 hour
Terrain: Sand, dunes, beach, river
Requirements: Parks Pass
Enjoy a scenic drive down the longest beach in Tasmania! From the beautiful sea views to the crashing waves and the rolling sand dunes, Ocean Beach will be an unforgettable drive you will thoroughly enjoy from start to finish. We recommend drivers exercise caution around Henty Dunes as your head towards the Henty River, as quicksand can be found in this area.
Ocean Beach is also known for its fantastic fishing spots, however, swimming is not advised due to the strong waves and sea lion habitation in the area.
Arthur Beach
Location: West Coast
Difficulty: Hard
Distance: 14 km
How long will it take to complete: Approx. 30 mins
Terrain: Sand, dunes, beach
Requirements: 4WD permit and Parks Pass
Looking to conquer a small yet difficult track? Filled with unpredictable soft sand, the Arthur Beach track is an exhilarating experience that only skilled drivers should undertake. Recovery gear is a must when traversing this trail, as well as heading up in a convoy of 4WD-capable vehicles. Thrill-seeking aside, Arthur Beach also has some wonderful recreational activities you can enjoy in the area, including hiking, camping, fishing and even horse riding!
It is essential that you check in with a ranger from Arthur River before heading out, as they will know if the condition of the track is safe enough to drive on.
Southport Lagoon
Location: South of Ida Bay
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 12 km
How long will it take to complete: Approx. 1 hour
Terrain: Rocks, sand and boggy soil
Requirements: Parks Pass
For an enjoyable off-road track that will allow you to experience a taste of what Tasmania has to offer, we recommend checking out the Southport Lagoon track. While it is relatively slow, this trail will allow you to test out your 4WD skills, as well as the 4x4 capabilities of your vehicle, along rocky sections, sand, and boggy soil.
Along the way, drivers can stay at any of the designated campfire spots while also enjoying a number of fun activities such as kayaking, fishing, and swimming.
Jacobs Ladder
Location: Ben Lomond National Park
Difficulty: Easy/ Moderate
Distance: 14 km
How long will it take to complete: Approx. 1 hour
Terrain: Dirt, mud, snow and ice (during winter)
Requirements: Parks Pass
While it may not seem as challenging as any of the other 4WD tracks on this list, Jacobs Ladder is considered one of the scariest roads in Australia due to its sharp hairpin turns. Due to its sheer height, this trail is a mystifying drive that will leave you on the edge of your seat until you reach the top of the summit.
During the winter season, it is essential that you climb Jacobs Ladder with a guide and snow chains. The ice and snow will make this dizzying road even more dangerous, so exercise caution!
Montezuma Falls Track
Location: Rosebery
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 50 km
How long will it take to complete: Approx. 4-6 hours
Terrain: Mud, rainforest, river crossing
Requirements: Parks Pass
Take a drive through one of the most beautiful rainforests in Tasmania by conquering the Montezuma Falls Track. Following the old historic tram track, this trail will take you through muddy patches, peaks, troughs, and across plenty of river crossings. Along the way, you will be able to experience a magnificent spray tunnel, spectacular views, as well as its impressive 104m waterfall.
Unfortunately, there are no campsites or facilities available along the Montezuma Falls Track, however, it is possible to camp for free in Rosebery.
Essential 4WD Tools and Accessories to Help You Tackle Tassie’s Tracks
If you’re looking to head over to Tasmania to try out any of the tracks on this list, it is vital that you prepare yourself appropriately with the right tools and equipment, while also completing any necessary upgrades to your vehicle so that it can handle the rough conditions of the tracks.
Recovery gear and first aid kits are a must when out on any off-road track, as well as UHF radios. Remember, only registered and roadworthy 4WD vehicles are allowed to be out on Tasmanian trails!
Of course, for safety reasons, we always recommend heading out in a convoy of 4WD-capable vehicles. Some tracks, such as the Jacobs Ladder track, will require snow chains for your tyres during the snow season. Please ensure you check in with a ranger from the local Parks Office before heading out on any track.
Stay safe while out off-roading by stocking up and upgrading your vehicle with Camping Adventures. Our 4WD store in Melbourne has all the gear you will need to conquer any type of track, no matter the condition!
There’s No Time Like the Present to Experience the Best 4WD Tracks Tasmania Has to Offer!
From its charming sandy beaches and magnificent rainforests to its challenging alpine areas, it’s easy to see why Tasmania has become one the most popular destinations for 4WD enthusiasts across Australia.
Looking to get your vehicle decked out before heading off to Tassie? With a wide range of 4x4 accessories and camping gear for sale, Camping Adventures has you covered. We are authorised dealers of off-road campers and hybrid camper trailers in Hobart and Melbourne, including the Patriot Campers and Lifestyle Campers range. Visit our to find an off-road ready camper trailer that can come with you on your next 4X4 adventure.
