Curtis Road

Curtis Road near Mandalong delivers a relentless 4WD challenge that separates experienced drivers from the rest. Despite its modest 1.6 km length, this extreme-rated trail packs intense technical difficulty into every metre, earning its 4/4 difficulty rating through unforgiving terrain rather than distance. You'll navigate boulder-strewn sections, deep ruts, and obstacles that demand precise vehicle placement and genuine recovery skills—this isn't a trail for learning; it's a proving ground for seasoned off-roaders.

The driving experience combines raw rock-crawling sections with tight clearance passages that test both your vehicle's capabilities and your nerves. You'll encounter loose, unstable surfaces interspersed with solid rock formations that create an unpredictable riding surface. The surrounding bushland offers minimal visual relief as you concentrate intensely on line selection and throttle control. Completion typically takes around 12 minutes for those who keep moving, but expect longer if you need recovery attempts or careful reconnoitering.

Come fully prepared: carry recovery gear, a spotter if possible, and ensure your vehicle is in excellent mechanical condition with quality tyres suited to rocky terrain. Winch-equipped vehicles have a significant advantage here. Check Newtracs for real-time trail conditions before heading out, as weather can dramatically change obstacle difficulty. Only 15 vehicles have completed this track, reflecting its elite status in the NSW off-roading community.