James Track

You'll discover what makes James Track a rewarding medium-difficulty challenge near Nariel Valley – a compact 2.1 km route that packs serious elevation changes into a surprisingly intense driving experience. The trail's defining feature is its steep 35% grades, which demand respect and precision as you navigate the demanding ascents and descents. You'll need a capable 4WD with good ground clearance and responsive braking to handle these challenging sections safely.

The terrain alternates between rocky outcrops and rougher ground that will test your vehicle's articulation and your own concentration behind the wheel. Expect to spend around 33 minutes completing the route, though conditions and your comfort level with steep grades may extend this. The Nariel Valley setting provides scenic backdrop, but this isn't a leisurely cruise – you should come prepared with proper recovery equipment and ideally tackle it in good weather conditions when grip is optimal.

Before attempting James Track, ensure your vehicle is in top mechanical condition, your tyres have solid tread, and your brakes are working flawlessly. While only one vehicle has currently logged this trail through the Newtracs app, that doesn't diminish the technical skill required. This is an ideal trail for building your off-road confidence on steeper terrain, but approach it methodically and turn back if conditions deteriorate.