Best Tips For Preparing Your 4WD For A Snow Trip

Graham Cahill

11 January 2021

At a time when most folk are putting bathers and fishing gear in the 4WD and heading north to catch a tan and lounge on a beach, it seems counterintuitive to be heading into the mountains. However, to do so is to experience, in my humble opinion, the single best 4WDing in the country at that time of year.

The white elephant is of course that pesky 'track closure' issue. In short, yes areas of the high country are closed during the winter months. However, there are still more tracks up above the snowline than any person could ever hope to drive in a holiday period. I’d go so far as to say you won’t even notice track closures; it’s simply not an issue worth cancelling a trip over.

So, what are the rewards of heading high rather than north during winter? Well in my opinion the rewards are massive. First and foremost, getting to experience a winter wonderland via your 4WD on a desert island has to take the crown. It’s unlike anything you’ll have done before. A roaring fire under snow laden stunted gums among that alpine tussock grass is worth the price of admission alone. Then there’s snow driving. It’s addictive and the most fun you can have in a 4WD. Throw in the single most dramatic views over snow covered alpine peaks and I think you can see the picture I’m painting. Oh, and finally, because we humans are creatures of habit, there will be virtually zero crowds. In fact, chances are you’ll have the place to yourself!

We all have a bucket list of locations and experiences we want to tick off and I can’t be more enthusiastic about you adding a 4WD trip to the high country during the middle of winter. It’s the single greatest place to be with a 4WD at that time of year and an experience that you will never forget. If you’re as passionate about outdoor adventure as I am, you’ll be planning your next snow trip before the first has even finished!

Oh, and don’t forget gloves and a beanie… trust me on the gloves!

What’s on your 4WD destination bucket list? Let us know in the comments below or join the conversation on Facebook.

In my humble opinion a 4WD adventure up into the Victorian high country during the peak of winter is an absolute must but preparation is key.