Root Hog Road

If you're after a short but genuinely challenging test of your vehicle's capabilities, Root Hog Road delivers exactly that. Despite its modest 0.7 km length, this trail near Gowan packs a serious punch with steep grades reaching 43%, making it far more demanding than its "Easy" rating might suggest. You'll need to respect the terrain here—this isn't a leisurely cruise but rather an intense technical section that will have you working the throttle and carefully managing momentum on unforgiving slopes.

The driving experience is concentrated and purposeful. You'll navigate rocky, rutted terrain as the track climbs steeply through bushland, with every metre requiring your full attention. The landscape around Gowan offers typical New South Wales backcountry scenery, but your focus will be firmly on the challenge ahead rather than sightseeing. The 43% gradient means you should ensure your 4WD is in good mechanical condition before attempting this route—check your brakes, suspension, and differential locks work properly.

Completion typically takes around 17 minutes, but don't let the short timeframe fool you into underestimating the trail. Twenty-seven other vehicles have tackled Root Hog Road, proving it's achievable but certainly not trivial. Consider bringing recovery gear and an experienced spotter if this is your first time on steep gradient trails. The Newtracs app will help you navigate confidently and track your progress through this demanding little gem.