Goat Track

If you're seeking an extreme 4WD challenge that will test your vehicle's capabilities and your nerve, the Goat Track near Nelson City demands your respect. This deceptively short 0.5 km route packs an intense driving experience into its compact length, featuring an eye-watering 82% grade that makes it one of the most punishing climbs in the region. You'll find yourself navigating terrain so steep that it feels almost vertical—this isn't a casual Sunday drive, but rather a serious technical challenge for experienced off-road drivers only.

The dramatic landscape around Nelson provides stunning scenery, but you'll be too focused on maintaining traction and control to fully appreciate the views. The extreme gradient means you'll need a vehicle with genuine 4WD capability, excellent ground clearance, and ideally lockers or differential locks to handle the relentless climb. Approach speeds must be minimal, and momentum management is critical—one mistake could result in your vehicle becoming stranded or rolling backward.

Before attempting the Goat Track, ensure your vehicle is in peak mechanical condition and that you're carrying recovery equipment. The short distance is deceptive; completion times vary dramatically depending on conditions and your approach. This trail remains unrated and currently shows zero recorded vehicle completions, which speaks volumes about its severity. Only experienced 4WD enthusiasts with appropriate vehicles should consider this trail a worthwhile objective.