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CROOKED RIVER, VIC
πŸš™ 4WD & Off-Road

Billy Goat Bluff Track

⭐⭐⭐⭐½4.8/5 (75 reviews)
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Experience
Free public 4WD track Β· BYO vehicle
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Terrain
Steep, rocky high-country climb
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Length
~8.5 km climb to The Pinnacles
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Vehicles
Capable 4WD Β· low range Β· clearance
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Access
Free Β· closes ~May–Jan / winter
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Best for
Experienced off-roaders
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Where
Crooked River Β· Alpine NP, VIC
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Rating
4.8 / 5 (75)

About Billy Goat Bluff Track

Billy Goat Bluff Track is one of the Victorian High Country's most iconic and challenging 4WD tracks, climbing from Wonnangatta Road on the Crooked River up to The Pinnacles fire lookout in the Alpine National Park. It is a free, public, bring-your-own-vehicle track β€” there is no operator, gate fee or booking β€” but it is emphatically not a beginner run. The climb gains roughly 1,200 metres in around 7 kilometres, with maximum gradients of about 39%, loose rock, small ledges, deep ruts and narrow pinch points where passing oncoming vehicles is difficult. Those who reach the top are rewarded with some of the most spectacular high-country views in the state, which is why so many experienced four-wheel drivers rate it a must-do.

Free public trackOne of VIC's steepestHigh-country viewsExperienced drivers onlySeasonal closures

The park & tracks

  • The climbRoughly 8.5 km from the Crooked River up to The Pinnacles, gaining around 1,200 m of elevation β€” one of the steepest tracks in the Victorian High Country.
  • TerrainSteep ascents, loose stone, rocky ledges and heavily rutted sections; gradients reach about 39%.
  • Narrow & one-way feelThe track is narrow in places, making passing oncoming vehicles a real challenge β€” plan your timing and use a UHF.
  • The rewardThe Pinnacles fire lookout at the top offers sweeping views across the Alpine National Park.
  • Bring your own 4WDA capable four-wheel drive with low range, good ground clearance and recovery gear is strongly recommended.

Good to know

  • Seasonal accessThe track is closed over winter and can be closed at any time between roughly May and January as conditions change β€” always check current closures before heading out.
  • DifficultyRated one of the steepest and most demanding tracks in the High Country; it should only be attempted by experienced 4WD drivers in well-prepared vehicles.
  • No facilitiesThis is remote bush β€” there are no fuel, water or services on the track, and mobile coverage is limited.
  • Travel preparedCarry recovery gear, the means to self-recover, plenty of water and food, and ideally travel with another vehicle.
  • Getting thereThe track starts off Wonnangatta Road near Crooked River, in the Pinnacles area of Victoria's Gippsland High Country.

FAQ

Do I need to book or pay to drive Billy Goat Bluff Track?
No. It is a free, public 4WD track in the Alpine National Park β€” there is no operator, gate fee or booking. You drive your own vehicle at your own risk.
How hard is the track?
It is rated one of the steepest and most challenging tracks in the Victorian High Country, with gradients up to around 39%, loose rock, ledges and ruts. It should only be attempted by experienced drivers in capable, well-prepared 4WDs.
What vehicle do I need?
A capable four-wheel drive with low range, good ground clearance and recovery gear is strongly recommended. It is not suitable for soft-roaders or inexperienced drivers.
When is it open?
The track is closed over winter and can be closed at any time between roughly May and January depending on conditions. Always check current track and seasonal closures before you travel.
How long is the track?
The main climb runs about 8.5 km from the Crooked River up to The Pinnacles fire lookout, gaining roughly 1,200 metres of elevation.

Quick facts

  • ExperienceFree public 4WD track
  • TerrainSteep, rocky climb
  • Length~8.5 km to The Pinnacles
  • VehiclesCapable 4WD Β· BYO
  • AccessFree Β· seasonal closures
  • Rating4.8 / 5 (75)

Contact Information

Managed by
Parks Victoria (Alpine National Park) β€” check current track closures before travelling.
Address
Crooked River VIC 3862, Crooked River, Victoria

Location