Old Coach Road

You'll discover why Old Coach Road has earned its reputation as a genuine test of 4WD capability near Harrietville. This medium-difficulty trail rewards drivers who respect its demands with spectacular Alpine views and a satisfying technical challenge that's accessible without being trivial. The 2.8 km route takes you through varied terrain where you'll encounter steep sections pushing 13% grades that require careful line selection and steady throttle control.

As you navigate the trail, expect a mix of rocky outcrops, rutted sections, and tight switchbacks that demand your full attention. The landscape transitions between dense forest and open vistas across the high country, making this as visually rewarding as it is mechanically demanding. Loose surface conditions mean you should approach this trail with proper tire pressure settings and a spotter if possible—the steep grades combined with uneven terrain leave little room for hesitation.

Plan for around 44 minutes to complete Old Coach Road, allowing time to tackle the technical sections safely. Before heading out, ensure your vehicle's clearance and articulation are up to the challenge, and check conditions through the Newtracs app to see what the 9 previous drivers have experienced. This isn't a casual cruise, but it's the perfect trail for developing your 4WD skills in one of Victoria's most dramatic mountain settings.