No 5 Fire Trail

You'll discover why No 5 Fire Trail has earned its extreme rating the moment you tackle its relentless technical challenges near Lidsdale. This 1.8 km beast demands serious skill, precision, and vehicle capability—it's not the steep grades that'll test you here, but rather the unforgiving terrain that separates experienced 4WD pilots from the rest. With 53 vehicles having conquered this route, you're joining a select group of off-road enthusiasts who thrive on technical complexity.

The trail winds through dense bushland with tight passages, obstacle-laden sections, and terrain that requires constant vehicle control and expert line-finding. You'll navigate through rocky outcrops, creek crossings, and narrow clearings where any mistake means consequences. The scenery is genuinely rewarding—lush NSW bush interspersed with dramatic rock formations—but your focus will remain firmly on the driving. Most pilots complete the route in around 17 minutes, though that timeline means maintaining concentration and momentum throughout.

Come prepared with a well-maintained, capable 4WD and recovery gear. This trail demands a spotter for many sections, so bring experienced crew. Check conditions beforehand as weather can dramatically affect terrain difficulty. Use the Newtracs app to access detailed GPS tracking before you arrive, ensuring you're ready for every twist and technical section this fire trail throws at you.