Gentle Annie Trail

If you're after an accessible introduction to water crossings without committing to a full day expedition, Gentle Annie Trail delivers exactly that. Located near Uriarra in New South Wales, this short but character-filled route packs genuine 4WD challenges into less than a kilometre, making it perfect for building confidence or testing new equipment.

You'll navigate terrain featuring a respectable 27% steep grade that keeps things interesting, combined with multiple river crossings that showcase what your vehicle can handle. The scenic bushland setting provides a genuine off-road experience despite the trail's brevity—you're driving through authentic country, not manicured park roads. With an easy difficulty rating and completion time around 5 minutes of active driving, you'll have time to stop and scout the water crossings beforehand, checking depth and approach angles.

Before heading out, ensure your vehicle is in good mechanical condition and your tyres have adequate tread for wet terrain. Check water levels if there's been recent rainfall, as river conditions can change. The trail's popularity (over 60 vehicles have completed it) means it's well-established and reliable, though this also means you might encounter other drivers. Bring water crossings experience or drive with someone who has one—this trail is your chance to learn in a controlled, manageable setting.