23

If you're after a serious test of your 4WD's climbing ability, Trail 23 near Bromelton delivers exactly that in a compact package. Don't let the short 0.2 km distance fool you—this is a brutal ascent that will push both your vehicle and your driving skills to the limit. The trail's punishing 38% grade means you're climbing nearly four meters vertically for every ten meters forward, creating an intense challenge that separates capable rigs from the rest.

You'll tackle relentless steep terrain that demands precision driving, optimal weight distribution, and a vehicle genuinely equipped for extreme conditions. The short completion time of just 8 minutes might sound easy, but those minutes are packed with white-knuckle concentration as you navigate the aggressive gradient. Loose rock and potential traction issues are constant hazards on this kind of sustained climb, so you'll need good ground clearance, low-range capability, and ideally some lockers to maintain momentum.

Before attempting Trail 23, ensure your vehicle is in top condition with quality tyres and strong suspension. Study the terrain using Newtracs to understand what lies ahead, and consider attempting this challenge during dry conditions when traction is at its best. With 14 vehicles having successfully tackled it, you'll join a select group of 4WD enthusiasts who've conquered one of Queensland's most demanding short tracks.