North Road

You'll discover a challenging short route near Porepunkah that demands respect from even experienced 4WD drivers. North Road packs serious elevation into its compact 1.2 km length, with a punishing 13% grade that will test your vehicle's traction and your nerve. This isn't a leisurely scenic cruise—it's a technical climb that rewards precision driving and vehicle maintenance.

The steep terrain means you'll need a capable 4WD with good ground clearance and responsive throttle control. Before attempting North Road, ensure your vehicle is in top condition: check your brakes thoroughly, verify tire tread and pressure, and confirm your diff locks are functioning properly. The concentrated gradient leaves little room for error, so approach with caution and scout ahead if you're unfamiliar with steep terrain. Weather conditions are critical—wet weather could render this route treacherous and potentially impassable.

What makes this trail compelling is its intensity relative to distance. You won't spend long on North Road, but every metre demands your full attention. It's an ideal challenge for intermediate to advanced drivers looking to refine their skills on genuine alpine terrain. Using the Newtracs app to navigate and log your run adds another dimension to tracking your 4WD adventures in Victoria's high country.