Horse Paddock Road

Horse Paddock Road offers 4WD enthusiasts an accessible introduction to off-road driving near the lush Otway Ranges. This unrated 2.5 km trail winds through scenic bushland close to Beech Forest, providing a relatively gentle driving experience with a modest 4% grade that won't challenge experienced drivers but gives newcomers a chance to build confidence behind the wheel.

You'll navigate a mix of dirt road surfaces as you traverse this short route, with the surrounding forest canopy creating an immersive natural setting. The terrain is straightforward enough that you can focus on appreciating the Victorian countryside, though you should still maintain basic vehicle maintenance and carry essential recovery gear. While the trail itself presents minimal technical difficulty, conditions can vary seasonally—wet weather may create softer patches, so checking local conditions before heading out is worthwhile.

This is a perfect warm-up drive or a casual weekend outing for those exploring the Otway region. You'll want to bring water, a basic tool kit, and let someone know your intended route. The gentle gradient and manageable distance make it ideal for testing vehicle setup or simply enjoying a peaceful drive through the forest. Track your progress and share your experience using the Newtracs app to help build the community database for this emerging trail.