Crooked River Track

If you're seeking a challenging 4WD adventure that tests your vehicle handling skills without relying on extreme gradients, the Crooked River Track near Wongungarra delivers exactly that. You'll navigate 4.5 kilometres of technical terrain where precision and throttle control matter far more than steep climbs. Over 591 vehicles have successfully tackled this hard-rated track, and you can join them for an exhilarating 37-minute run through some genuinely demanding country.

The highlight of this trail is undoubtedly the river crossings, which form the core challenge of your journey. You'll encounter multiple water obstacles that demand respect—approach each crossing with caution and ensure your vehicle is properly prepared with adequate ground clearance and waterproofing. The surrounding landscape features dense scrubland and rocky outcrops that create an immersive off-road experience. While the track maintains a manageable 0% steep grade, don't mistake this for easy going; the combination of rocky sections, tight lines through vegetation, and water hazards keeps you constantly engaged.

Before heading out, check your vehicle's water-fording capability and bring recovery gear. The technical nature of these crossings means a moment's inattention could leave you stuck. Use Newtracs to download the track details before you depart—having offline access to the route ensures you won't lose your way in this remote Gippsland location. This is the kind of trail that separates casual drivers from genuine 4WD enthusiasts.