Carricktown Track

You'll discover why Carricktown Track has earned its place in the Otago 4WD circuit—it's a quick blast through quintessential Central Otago landscape that proves you don't need hours behind the wheel to enjoy serious off-road driving. This easy, beautifully compact route near the Cromwell Community offers newcomers and experienced drivers alike a chance to test their vehicles on genuine backcountry terrain without committing to a full day's expedition.

The track showcases the rugged, tussock-dotted hills that characterize this region, with gentle rolling grades that let you focus on the driving experience rather than technical challenges. You'll navigate open country with minimal obstacles, making this ideal for those keen to build confidence in their 4WD capabilities or introduce passengers to off-road adventures. The flat grade profile means you can concentrate on line selection and vehicle handling rather than managing steep descents or climbs.

Before heading out, ensure your vehicle is in good working order and carry basic recovery gear—even easy tracks demand respect. Check current conditions via the Newtracs app before you go, as Central Otago weather can change quickly. With just 1.2 kilometres round trip, Carricktown Track is perfect for fitting into a broader exploring day, allowing you to tick off another adventure while sampling the authentic Otago backcountry experience.