
Is Mount Hotham paved?
Australia, oceania
303 km
1,862 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, so you're heading to Victoria, Australia? You HAVE to check out Mount Hotham! At 1,862m (that's over 6,100 feet!), it's the highest point on the legendary Great Alpine Road (B500) and the highest paved road in the whole country!
This stretch of the Great Alpine Road runs for about 32.6km (around 20 miles) connecting Harrietville and Hotham Heights. The whole Great Alpine Road is a mammoth 303 km (188 mi) long.
Now, heads up: this is the Victorian Alps, so weather can be a bit wild, especially between Harrietville and Omeo. They usually keep it open in winter, but snow can close it down. If you're going during snow season, you'll need snow chains β you can rent them on either side of the road.
The climb from Harrietville isn't crazy steep, but pay attention! The road's paved, but it can get a little tight with oncoming traffic in spots. Plus, some sections have serious drop-offs right next to the road, and not always with barriers. But the views? Totally worth it! Prepare for incredible scenery!
Road Details
- Country
- Australia
- Continent
- oceania
- Length
- 303 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,862 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in oceania
moderateThe narrow Haast River Bridge of NZ
π³πΏ New Zealand
Okay, picture this: you're cruising down the South Island's West Coast in New Zealand, and BAM! You hit the Haast River Bridge. Forget boring bridges; this one's a showstopper! We're talking a seriously long, one-lane bridge stretching 750 meters across the wild Haast River. Yeah, one lane, so you might have to wait your turn, but trust me, the views are worth it. You're smack-dab on State Highway 6, so it's not exactly off the beaten path, but it feels like it. Get ready for epic scenery, keep your eyes peeled, and drive safe!
moderateHow long is the South Face Road to Mount Baw Baw Resort?
π¦πΊ Australia
Okay, picture this: South Face Road, your rugged route to Mount Baw Baw Alpine Resort in Victoria, Australia! We're talking about a climb that tops out at a cool 1,478 meters (4,849 feet). This isn't just a Sunday drive, folks. You'll find yourself cruising for 30.3 kilometers (18.82 miles) after leaving Thomson Valley Road, north of Rawson. Now, here's the kicker: forget the pavement! This beauty is all about that unsealed life. Expect a gorgeous trek through the National Park before winding your way up those narrow mountain roads. Worried about hairpin turns? Relax! South Face Road is actually pretty tame compared to the Mount Baw Baw Tourist Road. So, if you get carsick easily, this might be your best bet, especially when the weather turns nasty. The gradient's steady and the turns are gentle. But don't get too comfy β this road gets seriously steep in sections, boasting gradients up to 17%! It's known as one of the toughest climbs in Australia for road cyclists. Heads up: fuel up *before* you head up! There are no gas stations on the mountain. And ditch that GPS β it might lead you astray. Keep an eye out for logging trucks year-round, and take it slow around corners. Winter warriors, listen up: conditions can change on a dime in the Alps. If you're driving in snow season, carry chains. And Erica is your last chance to grab those chains, so plan accordingly! And throw some antifreeze in your diesel, dress warmly, and pack sunscreen.
hardHow to get to Treble Cone ski resort in NZ?
π³πΏ New Zealand
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! Deep in the Southern Alps of New Zealand's South Island, near Otago, lies the epic Treble Cone ski resort. And getting there? Well, that's half the fun. The road, simply called Treble Cone Access Road, is 7.6km of pure Kiwi madness. Forget smooth tarmac; we're talking a rugged, unpaved climb from the Wanaka Mount Aspiring Road straight up the mountain. Think steep β like, a grunty 20% gradient in places! It's a leg-burner for your car (or you, if you're super keen for a hike!). Expect about 925 meters of elevation gain. Picture this: hairpin turns (eight of them!), the occasional guard rail (but not too many β gotta keep it interesting!), and incredible views every single meter of the way. A 4WD isn't essential, but respect the mountain. Of course, being a mountain road, winter can throw some curveballs. Pack your snow chains because closures are possible. The crew keeps it maintained during the ski season. But seriously, the scenery is worth it. The road hugs Lake Wanaka, with killer reflections of the mountains on calm days. And the summit? Epic panoramas of the lake and Mount Aspiring that will blow your mind. Trust me, this drive is a must-do!
hardHow long is the Hay River Track?
π¦πΊ Australia
Okay, buckle up, adventure junkies! The Hay River Track is calling your name! This isn't just a drive; it's a full-blown expedition into the heart of the Aussie outback. Think you're tough enough to tackle 928 km (576 miles) of seriously sandy terrain? We're talking about linking Birdsville in Queensland to Gemtree in the Northern Territory via a prehistoric riverbed. Seriously cool! You'll need a 4WD beast with low-range gearing and plenty of clearance to conquer those dunes. This beauty only opened to the public in 2000, so it's still raw and untamed. Best time to go? Aim for May to October. The summer heat is no joke out here. Heads up: this is REMOTE. Zero fuel stops, zero shops. Youβre completely on your own. Pack a serious amount of water (at least seven liters per person per day, PLUS extra for emergencies) and emergency food. Traction boards and a satellite phone are non-negotiable. Seriously, donβt even THINK about doing this solo.