Upper Nine Mile Road

Upper Nine Mile Road delivers an accessible introduction to river crossing adventures without demanding advanced technical skills. You'll enjoy a genuine off-road experience that's perfect for newer 4WD drivers or those seeking a relaxed outing with family and friends. The 3.6 km route near Stanley winds through Victoria's scenic countryside, offering you the chance to test your vehicle's water-fording capabilities across multiple river crossings that vary in depth and flow depending on recent rainfall.

The terrain throughout this trail is remarkably forgiving, with no steep grades to negotiate, allowing you to focus on line selection and water crossing technique rather than extreme angles or slippery ascents. You'll appreciate the relatively straightforward driving conditions that still deliver that satisfying off-road feel—the kind of experience that keeps drivers coming back. The Victorian landscape surrounding the trail provides pleasant scenery that makes the 14-minute average drive time feel worthwhile, even for such a compact route.

Before heading out, you should check recent weather conditions, as water levels in the crossings can fluctuate significantly. Bring recovery gear and ensure your vehicle's water crossing capability has been verified. With over 34 successful completions logged by other 4WD enthusiasts, Upper Nine Mile Road stands as a proven beginner-friendly option that shouldn't be underestimated for fun factor.