Bunyip Ridge Track

Bunyip Ridge Track offers 4WD enthusiasts a genuine test of skill and nerve near Gembrook. This challenging 5.2 km route demands respect from drivers, with its relentless 7% steep grades and technical terrain that separates experienced operators from novices. You'll navigate rocky outcrops, deep ruts, and narrow sections that require precise vehicle control and concentration throughout your journey.

The landscape rewards your efforts with stunning forest scenery as you climb through native vegetation, offering glimpses of the Dandenong Ranges. The trail's difficulty comes not just from gradient but from the combination of loose surfaces, potential for washouts, and sections requiring careful line selection. You should come prepared with recovery gear, a spotter if possible, and comprehensive route planning—over 267 vehicles have tackled this track, and their experience speaks to its genuine challenge.

Expect this trail to demand around 5-6 hours for completion, depending on conditions and your comfort level with hard rock crawling. You'll need a capable 4WD with good ground clearance and approach angles. Weather significantly impacts difficulty; wet conditions transform this already-hard track into a serious undertaking. This isn't a casual Sunday drive—it's the kind of trail that builds genuine 4WD skills and leaves you with real satisfaction upon completion.