Nelson Track

If you're seeking a challenging water crossing experience without committing to a full day's expedition, the Nelson Track near Deptford delivers exactly what you need. This medium-difficulty trail combines river crossings with genuine elevation changes, making it an ideal training ground for drivers looking to build their water fording skills and test their vehicle's capabilities in a concentrated burst of action.

You'll navigate 3.4 kilometres of varied terrain where steep grades reaching 14% demand respect and proper technique. The river crossings are the star of this trail—expect water depths that require careful line selection and steady throttle control. The landscape alternates between open forest sections and tighter passages where vegetation crowds the track, keeping you engaged throughout. While the average completion time sits around 5 minutes of driving, don't let that fool you; these are technical minutes that require full concentration.

Before tackling Nelson Track, ensure your vehicle is in top condition with properly functioning differentials and solid ground clearance. Check water levels before attempting the crossings, particularly after heavy rainfall when water flow can become unpredictable. Bring recovery gear and consider a companion vehicle if possible. The relative isolation means self-sufficiency is essential. Track this route in the Newtracs app to monitor your progress and access waypoint data for the trickier sections.