Old Colac Road

Old Colac Road offers 4WD drivers a genuine piece of regional Victoria's transport history, where you'll navigate a classic rural track that once connected isolated farming communities. This 1.9 km medium-difficulty trail near Dereel delivers an authentic off-road experience without the extreme technical demands, making it ideal for building your 4WD skills on varied terrain.

You'll encounter a mix of compacted earth and loose gravel surfaces as you work your way along this historic route. The relatively flat gradient means you can focus on line choice and vehicle control rather than wrestling with steep ascents or descents. The surrounding landscape reveals the working rural character of the region, with native vegetation and open country typical of southwestern Victoria. While there's no severe grade to worry about, you should watch for loose surface patches and potential water runoff channels that can develop ruts during wetter conditions.

Before heading out, ensure your vehicle is in good mechanical condition and carry basic recovery equipment. The modest length means you can complete the trail in around 8 minutes of driving time, though you may want to allow extra time to explore the historical aspects of this former mail route. With manageable terrain and straightforward navigation, Old Colac Road is an excellent choice for intermediate drivers wanting to experience authentic backcountry driving while learning how Australia's rural infrastructure evolved.