Machinery Spur Track

You'll discover an intriguing backcountry route near Hotham Heights that offers 4WD enthusiasts a chance to explore Victoria's alpine regions away from the main tourist corridors. The Machinery Spur Track presents a relatively compact 2.8 km journey that rewards curious drivers with access to remote terrain and scenic mountain vistas. This unrated trail appeals to those seeking an authentic off-road experience in a lesser-known corner of the Grampians region, where you can escape crowded highways and immerse yourself in pristine bushland.

The terrain combines gentle grades with winding singletrack sections that demand attentive driving and vehicle control. You'll navigate through eucalypt forests with occasionally tight tree clearances, requiring careful steering and awareness of your vehicle's width. Rocky outcrops and natural drainage lines create variable driving surfaces that keep you engaged throughout the route. While the landscape presents no extreme technical obstacles, the remote location means you should carry recovery equipment, spares, and navigate using the Newtracs app to avoid wrong turns.

Preparation is essential—ensure your vehicle is mechanically sound and bring adequate water and supplies, as service stations are distant. The trail's relatively short distance makes it perfect for combining with other local routes, and the spectacular alpine scenery at various vantage points makes photography stops worthwhile. Best tackled during drier months when ground conditions are optimal, Machinery Spur Track offers the kind of backcountry exploration that keeps 4WD enthusiasts returning to discover more hidden gems.