Best 4WD Tracks in NSW: Bush, mountain & outback trails

New South Wales is packed with incredible 4WD tracks, from forested mountain trails to remote outback roads that feel a world away from city life. There’s no shortage of tracks to suit different vehicles, skill levels and travel styles.

This guide focuses on the best 4WD tracks and trails in NSW, covering bushland, national parks and inland routes, with practical tips to help you plan a safe and enjoyable trip.

Why NSW is great for 4WD tracks and trails

NSW offers a huge variety of landscapes that are ideal for off-road travel, including:

• Mountain ranges and rainforests
• National parks with maintained 4WD routes
• Historic touring tracks
• Remote outback scenery in the west

Many of these places are best explored by 4WD, giving you access to quieter corners of the state and some of the most scenic drives around.

Best bush and national park 4WD tracks in NSW

Barrington Tops National Park

Barrington Tops is one of the most popular destinations for experienced 4WDers in NSW, known for its high-altitude trails and dramatic scenery.

What to expect

• Steep climbs and rocky sections
• Cool temperatures at elevation
• Dense rainforest and alpine views

Good to know

• Many tracks close seasonally
• Snow and ice are possible in winter
• Best suited to well-prepared vehicles

Watagans National Park

An easy drive from the Central Coast or Newcastle, the Watagans are perfect for a weekend off-road escape.

What to expect

• Forest trails with varying difficulty
• Muddy conditions after rain
• Shaded driving through tall eucalypts

Good to know

• Track conditions change quickly
• Recovery gear is recommended in wet weather

Yengo National Park

Yengo feels remote despite being relatively close to Sydney. It’s a great option if you want quieter tracks and a sense of adventure.

What to expect

• Narrow bush tracks
• Rock shelves and creek crossings
• Scenic ridgelines and cultural sites

Good to know

• Limited mobile reception
• Navigation tools are essential

Tallaganda National Park

Located inland from the South Coast, Tallaganda offers a network of forest roads and trails suited to touring-style 4WD trips.

What to expect

• Long forest drives
• Easy to moderate tracks
• Opportunities for bush camping

Good to know

• The weather can change quickly
• Some tracks are closed during wet periods

Remote and Outback 4WD Tracks in NSW

Mungo National Park

Mungo National Park offers one of NSW’s most unique inland 4WD experiences, set within the Willandra Lakes Region World Heritage Area.

What to expect

• Graded dirt roads are suitable for most 4WDs
• Vast open landscapes and ancient geology
• Self-guided scenic drives

Good to know

• Very hot in summer
• Limited services nearby
• Park entry fees apply

Turon National Park

Turon combines scenic rivers, historic gold-mining sites and enjoyable 4WD tracks, making it ideal for relaxed off-road touring.

What to expect

• Easy to moderate tracks
• Riverside scenery and picnic spots
• Historic ruins along the way

Good to know

• River levels can affect access
• Popular during warmer months

Abercrombie River National Park

For those looking for a more challenging drive, Abercrombie River delivers rugged terrain and a remote-feeling trail experience.

What to expect

• Steep descents and creek crossings
• Challenging sections after rain
• Quiet, less-visited tracks

Good to know

• Best for experienced drivers
• Vehicle preparation is essential

The Bridle Track (Bathurst to Hill End)

The Bridle Track is a classic NSW 4WD touring route, linking Bathurst with the historic village of Hill End.

What to expect

• Scenic river crossings
• Historic landscapes
• A relaxed but memorable drive

Good to know

• Can close after heavy rain
• Check access conditions before departing

Planning a 4WD tracks trip in NSW

Before heading out, it’s worth doing a bit of preparation:

• Check for seasonal closures in national parks
• Choose tracks that match your experience level
• Carry recovery gear, navigation tools and extra water
• Let someone know your route if travelling remotely

Responsible 4WDing helps protect these tracks and keeps them open for future travellers.

Where to stay while exploring NSW 4WD tracks

Many of NSW’s best 4WD tracks are within easy reach of regional towns, national parks and camping areas, making it easy to base yourself nearby and explore at your own pace. Reflections has nearby accommodation to:

• Barrington Tops: Reflections Forster Beach (2hrs) or Reflections Lake Glenbawn (1hr 45mins)
• Watagans National Park: Norah Head Lighthouse Lightkeepers ' Cottages (50 mins)

Looking for beach sand-driving instead?

Check out our guide to the best 4WD beaches in NSW, where we cover coastal and beach-access tracks.