The Australian Capital Territory may be small, but it packs in some excellent off-road experiences. Canberra is surrounded by rugged bushland, with the Brindabella Ranges and Namadgi National Park offering everything from beginner-friendly trails to steep climbs with sweeping views. Perfect for a weekend escape, the ACT is a great place to sharpen your 4WD skills while enjoying classic Aussie bush scenery.
1. Webbs Ridge Trail (Brindabella National Park)
This is a go-to adventure for Canberra locals. The track climbs through forest, tackling rutted sections and rocky climbs before opening onto ridge views. It’s close enough for a day trip but tough enough to make you work for it.
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Difficulty: Moderate
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Length/Time: 20 km, 2–3 hrs
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Location: Brindabella Ranges, west of Canberra
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Best time: Year-round, avoid after heavy rain
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Terrain: Steep climbs, ruts, rocky sections
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Permits: Park entry fees may apply
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Vehicle prep: Low-range essential, recovery gear recommended
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Why Off-Roaders Love It: Close to the city, good variety of terrain, rewarding ridge views
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Camping: Flea Creek campground nearby
2. Gentle Annie Trail (Brindabella Ranges)
Gentle Annie isn’t exactly gentle. This steep climb is a favourite short challenge, with loose shale and rocky surfaces that test traction. It’s the kind of track that builds driver confidence quickly and rewards you with great views at the top.
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Difficulty: Moderate–Challenging
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Length/Time: 10 km, 1–2 hrs
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Location: Brindabella Ranges
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Best time: Summer–Autumn
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Terrain: Rocky climbs, loose shale, narrow sections
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Permits: None required
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Vehicle prep: Clearance, A/T tyres, recovery gear
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Why Off-Roaders Love It: Short and sharp, fun challenge, good practice for alpine terrain
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Camping: Brindabella and Cotter River campgrounds
“Mt Coree 4WD trip.” by spelio
3. Mount Coree Summit Track
One of the ACT’s most iconic climbs, the track to Mount Coree winds up through rocky terrain before reaching a summit lookout. On a clear day, you can see across the ACT into NSW. It’s accessible but steep enough to keep things interesting if you have an aftermarket kit.
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Difficulty: Moderate
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Length/Time: 12 km return, 1–2 hrs
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Location: Northern Brindabella Ranges
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Best time: Summer–Autumn (closed during fire danger season)
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Terrain: Rocky climbs, ruts
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Permits: None required
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Vehicle prep: Clearance and A/T tyres recommended
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Why Off-Roaders Love It: Panoramic summit views, quick but rewarding drive
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Camping: Flea Creek and other nearby campgrounds
4. Honeysuckle Creek to Orroral Valley (Namadgi National Park)
This route blends history with scenery. Once home to a NASA space tracking station, Honeysuckle Creek is now a great starting point for a drive into alpine valleys. The track is mostly gravel with some mild climbs, making it suitable for beginners.
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Difficulty: Easy–Moderate
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Length/Time: 30 km, half-day
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Location: Namadgi National Park, south of Canberra
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Best time: Spring–Autumn (winter snow can close roads)
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Terrain: Gravel roads, mild climbs
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Permits: Park entry fees may apply
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Vehicle prep: Stock 4WDs suitable; A/T tyres recommended
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Why Off-Roaders Love It: Alpine scenery, historic sites, family-friendly adventure
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Camping: Honeysuckle campground
ACT Off-Road: Small but Mighty
The ACT proves you don’t need endless kilometres to enjoy great off-road adventures. With steep climbs, alpine valleys, and quick access from Canberra, these tracks are perfect for sharpening skills or enjoying a weekend escape. Preparation still matters—even short trips are better with recovery gear, decent tyres, and a reliable setup.
DEA Performance is here to help you get the most from your 4WD. Explore our blog for more inspiration, or check out our high-performance exhaust kits before your next ACT adventure.
