Where is Macquarie Pass?
Australia, oceania
115 km
N/A
extreme
Year-round
Macquarie Pass, nestled in the Southern Highlands of New South Wales, is a legendary Aussie drive. Picture this: you're about 115 km southwest of Sydney, cruising through Macquarie Pass National Park on the Illawarra Highway (A48).
This paved ribbon of road stretches for 13.7 km between Tongarra and Robertson. It's usually open year-round, but keep an eye out for closures due to wild weather, landslides, or bushfire risks. After heavy rain, the top half can flood, so be aware!
Now, this isn't your average Sunday drive. Macquarie Pass is STEEP, with gradients hitting almost 10%, and packed with hairpin bends. The road is narrow, often without a centerline, and corners can be tricky with unexpected humps and tightening radiuses. Watch out for limited visibility and those seriously tight hairpins!
You'll find single-lane sections and stretches of two lanes with no overtaking allowed. One side is often a rock wall, the other a steep drop – so stay focused. Traffic can be heavy, especially on weekends when motorcyclists flock here. Be extra cautious of trucks navigating those tight turns.
But despite the challenges, Macquarie Pass is worth it! Think breathtaking scenery, stunning views, incredible waterfalls, glimpses of the ocean, and the vibrant Illawarra flame trees. Originally opened in 1898, it's a gateway to amazing bushwalking and birdwatching. If you're exploring the south coast, this is a must-do!
Road Details
- Country
- Australia
- Continent
- oceania
- Length
- 115 km
- Difficulty
- extreme
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