Lower Nine Mile Road

Lower Nine Mile Road delivers a challenging adventure that demands respect from serious 4WD drivers. Near Stanley, Victoria, you'll tackle steep grades reaching 9% as you navigate terrain that separates experienced operators from casual weekend warriors. This 4.6 km route packs technical difficulty into a relatively compact distance, rewarding your skills with river crossings that test your vehicle's capability and your decision-making under pressure.

The landscape shifts dramatically as you progress, with river crossings breaking up the steep climbs and adding genuine complexity to your navigation. You'll need to assess water depth and current before committing to each crossing—these aren't token water hazards but genuine obstacles requiring concentration. The surrounding Victorian bush scenery provides visual rewards between technical sections, though you'll be focused primarily on line selection and traction management.

Come prepared with recovery equipment, as the 9% grades combined with potential wet conditions after rainfall can catch drivers off guard. Check current conditions before heading out, as river levels fluctuate seasonally. The trail typically takes around 1 hour 12 minutes to complete, but don't rush it—this is about safe progression, not speed. With 36 vehicles already logged completing Lower Nine Mile Road, you'll be joining a small community of capable 4WD enthusiasts who've proven their mettle on one of Victoria's more demanding routes.