Road 9

You'll discover an exhilarating challenge near Toorongo where Road 9 pushes your 4WD to its limits with an impressive 11% grade that demands respect and proper vehicle setup. This 6.6 km route is unrated, meaning it remains relatively unexplored territory in the Newtracs community—a genuine frontier for adventurous drivers seeking something different from well-trodden paths. The steep terrain commands your full attention as you navigate elevation changes that will test your vehicle's traction, suspension, and your own driving skills.

The landscape around Toorongo offers a rugged Victorian backdrop, with natural terrain that ranges from rocky outcrops to deeply rutted sections carved by water runoff. You'll encounter sections where precision steering and momentum management are critical; this isn't a casual cruise but an engaging technical drive that rewards smooth inputs and careful line selection. The steep grade means engine braking becomes your best friend on descent, and low-range engagement is essential for maintaining control.

Before attempting Road 9, ensure your 4WD is properly maintained with good ground clearance, quality tyres with aggressive tread, and functioning differential locks if available. Bring recovery gear and consider tackling this trail with a companion vehicle. The remote nature and lack of previous traffic data mean you should be prepared for unexpected obstacles or track degradation. This is ideal for experienced 4WD drivers looking to explore genuinely challenging terrain in Victoria's high country.