Dawson Track

The Dawson Track offers 4WD enthusiasts a satisfying medium-difficulty challenge that combines river crossings with solid terrain variety near Buchan. You'll navigate 13.2 kilometres of mixed conditions that demand respect but reward confident driving with genuinely engaging obstacles—this isn't a gentle cruise. The trail features several water crossings that will test your vehicle's capability and your line-choice decisions, particularly after recent rainfall when water levels rise unpredictably.

Expect steep grades reaching 15% as you work through undulating forest country, with sections that transition between rocky creek beds and firmer track surfaces. The scenery around Buchan is characteristically beautiful East Gippsland bushland, with native vegetation framing your route and occasional open vistas. You should allow around 40 minutes for completion, though this depends heavily on your experience level and how cautiously you approach the water crossings—rushing these sections is genuinely risky.

Before heading out, check recent conditions via local sources, as water crossings can change dramatically with weather. Ensure your vehicle has adequate ground clearance, functional differentials, and reliable braking for those steep descents. A recovery point or winch gear is sensible insurance given the remote nature of some sections. While only one vehicle has submitted completion data on Newtracs so far, this reflects the trail's relative obscurity rather than any serious concerns—you're simply exploring less-documented terrain in Victoria's high country.