Bendethera Fire Trail

If you're after a medium-difficulty challenge with genuine river crossings and rewarding scenery, the Bendethera Fire Trail delivers exactly that. Located near Deua in New South Wales, this 6.7 km route offers the perfect balance of technical driving and accessible adventure, attracting 4WD enthusiasts who want more than a casual cruise but aren't ready for extreme terrain.

You'll navigate a steadily climbing fire trail that demands respect, particularly where the gradient reaches 17%, requiring careful throttle control and good line choice. The real highlight comes at the river crossings—these aren't token water features but genuine fords that test your vehicle's capability and your driver confidence. The surrounding landscape unfolds beautifully as you climb, with eucalypt forest giving way to panoramic views that reward your effort. The trail's 35-minute average completion time means you should budget extra if conditions are wet, as the crossings and slopes become substantially more challenging.

Before heading out, ensure your vehicle is in good mechanical condition and your tyres have solid tread for traction. Check recent conditions, as water levels in the crossings vary seasonally. Carry recovery gear and let someone know your plans. With 54 vehicles already having conquered this trail, you'll be joining a solid crew of drivers who appreciate quality off-road experiences without needing extreme 4x4 modifications.