Bridle Track

If you're after a genuine test of your vehicle's climbing ability in a compact package, Bridle Track near Murmungee delivers an intense challenge that punches well above its modest 1.0 km length. This medium-difficulty trail is famous among 4WD enthusiasts for its relentless 87% steep grade—a near-vertical assault that demands precision driving and a well-maintained machine. You'll need a vehicle with genuine low-range capability and good ground clearance to tackle this beast, and it's the kind of trail that separates confident drivers from cautious ones.

The terrain is unforgiving throughout, with minimal opportunity to catch your breath as you navigate the sustained incline. You'll experience rapid elevation gain as you work your way up, with the trail's narrow corridor leaving little room for error. The Victoria bush surrounds you, but you won't have much time to appreciate the scenery—your focus will be entirely on line selection and throttle control. Despite the brutal gradient, most drivers complete Bridle Track in around 4 minutes, though the real measure of success is making it to the top without bogging down.

Before attempting this trail, ensure your 4WD is in peak condition with fresh oil, good tyres, and full fuel. You should also check recent conditions, as weather can dramatically affect traction on these steep grades. With 16 previous completions on record via Newtracs, you'll have confidence knowing others have conquered this challenge—but respect the terrain, and you'll make it through.