It would be hard to find a state with a more varied selection of 4WD destinations than the regions of New South Wales.
It really is a state that has it all. In the north-west of the state is the Strzelecki Desert and Sturt National Park. In the north-east, lush rainforests dominate, while the south is home to snow-capped mountains. Let’s not forget the endless stretches of golden beaches running down the eastern seaboard. New South Wales has got you covered for all manner of off-road exploration.
New South Wales also has plenty of scenic National Parks to explore. One of these is the Mount Kaputar National Park, with the Barraba Track being a standout. It winds its way through the remote volcanic mountain peaks and offers some truly dramatic vistas and landscapes. Also not to be missed is the world-heritage listed Barrington Tops National Park, which showcases the ancient Gondwana Rainforests. Its stunning mountain views, great hikes, diverse and plentiful wildlife and lush jungle make it a fabulous place to explore. Closer to Sydney, the Blue Mountains has many tracks, making it well worth spending some time touring this spectacular area.
Corner Country is high up there, both on the map and in terms of genuine outback treks and is unlike anything else on offer in the state. The endless desert plains, sand dunes and vast rocky landscapes make for a stunning drive. A stop at “The Corner Store” at Cameron’s Corner, where the borders of Queensland, NSW and South Australia meet, is a mandatory requirement!
If you like your sand driving, it’s very hard to go past Stockton Beach, north of Newcastle. There’s over 22km of beach and more than 350 hectares of dunes to explore and enjoy. You may even come across evidence of Aboriginal occupation sites in the form of middens; large piles of shells accumulated over many generations.
At the other end of the spectrum, well away from sea-level, is the highest mountain range in Australia – the Snowy Mountains. With the genuine alpine climate and scenery, this environment is unique within Australia. In addition to numerous snow-capped mountains, the area is rich in rugged 4WD trails, skiing and hiking opportunities and dramatic scenery. The Lobs Hole Ravine track is one of the must-do drives in this area. As you wind your way through Kosciuszko National Park, you will encounter breathtaking views, the beautiful Yarrangobilly River, historical ruins and mining remnants.
The New England Tablelands is another truly spectacular region to visit. The name is a dead giveaway about what is on offer here, with its rolling green hills, charming country villages, stunning autumn colours and freezing winters, you could be forgiven for thinking that you have been transported back to the UK. The delicious local produce will ensure that you know exactly where you are though!
These are really only a brief highlight reel of what New South Wales has to offer. There are hundreds of other fabulous 4WD treks that crisscrosc all over this huge state!
