Crooked River Track

River crossings and remote Victoria bush combine to make Crooked River Track a rewarding medium-difficulty adventure for 4WD drivers seeking authentic outback driving without extreme technical demands. You'll tackle two significant water crossings that test your vehicle's water-fording capability and your confidence as a driver, making this 2km route far more engaging than its modest length suggests. The track winds through scenic bushland near Wongungarra, offering glimpses of the natural landscape that characterizes this region of Victoria.

The driving experience is refreshingly varied despite the short distance. You'll navigate well-maintained track sections that give way to the genuine challenge of the river crossings, where water depth and current conditions demand respect and careful line selection. The terrain is forgiving in terms of grades—there's no steep climbing to worry about—which means your focus stays on vehicle control through water and reading the landscape ahead. With over 227 vehicles having completed this route, you can trust that the trail is established and passable, though you should always check local conditions before heading out.

Come prepared with recovery gear and a spotter if possible, particularly during wet seasons when water levels rise. The relatively quick 13-minute completion time makes this an excellent option for building water-crossing skills or fitting in a genuine 4WD challenge during a day trip. The Newtracs app can help you navigate with offline maps and track your progress through this memorable Victorian trail.