Smoko Creek Track

You'll find Smoko Creek Track offers a quick but satisfying taste of off-road driving near Benambra, perfect for those wanting to test their 4WD capabilities without committing to a full-day adventure. This compact 0.6 km route delivers genuine character despite its modest length, featuring a mix of loose gravel surfaces and rocky sections that demand careful line selection and steady throttle control. The creek crossing provides the highlight of the drive—expect water crossings that vary with seasonal conditions, requiring you to read the terrain carefully before committing.

The surrounding landscape showcases the natural beauty of the Victorian high country, with native vegetation framing your approach and plenty of photo opportunities along the way. Because of the track's short duration, you can complete it in around four minutes of actual driving time, making it ideal for combining with other nearby trails or as a skill-building exercise. The medium difficulty rating means you'll need decent ground clearance and decent recovery gear, though the flat grade ensures you won't encounter steep climbs. Be prepared for variable track conditions—recent weather can significantly impact surface grip and water levels—so check conditions before heading out. Three 4WD vehicles have successfully completed this track, proving it's achievable for well-prepared drivers with standard 4WD setups.