Donald Track (Steep)

If you're after a genuine test of your 4WD's climbing ability, the Donald Track near Knockwood will deliver. This 5.3 km trail packs serious elevation gain into a relatively short route, with sustained grades reaching 38% that'll have you working the throttle and managing momentum carefully. You'll experience a medium-difficulty adventure that's challenging enough to be memorable without requiring extreme modifications or expert-level driving skills.

The terrain is unforgiving but rewarding. You'll navigate tight switchbacks and rocky sections as the track climbs through the Victorian landscape, with each hairpin demanding precision steering and good vehicle control. The steep grades mean you'll need to respect the conditions—dry weather is essential, and underestimating the gradient can quickly turn exciting into problematic. Take your time on the descent, use low range, and keep your momentum steady.

What makes Donald Track special is the concentrated challenge it offers. At just 34 minutes average completion time, it's perfect for fitting into a day's adventure, yet substantial enough to provide genuine satisfaction. The 67 vehicles that have successfully tackled it prove it's achievable, but respect the terrain and come prepared. Check conditions beforehand, ensure your vehicle is in good working order, and you'll find a trail that delivers exactly what you came for—real 4WD challenge without excessive distance or time commitment.