Alpine Way is an ideal road trip in Australia
Australia, oceania
123 km
1,597 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, picture this: the Alpine Way in New South Wales, Australia. Seriously, it's got to be one of the most scenic drives *ever*, with views stretching south into the Victorian Alps. They say it's one of the highest and windiest roads in Oz!
Back in the day, this was an old cattle route used by stockmen, but now it's a fully paved road (thanks to upgrades in the 90s) stretching 123km from Jindabyne to the border of New South Wales and Victoria.
This is a *mountain* road, folks. We're talking steep sections, hitting a 13% gradient in spots! You'll climb to 1,597m (5,239ft) above sea level at Dead Horse Gap, high in the Snowy Mountains.
Heads up: this road is usually open year-round, but winter can bring closures. Conditions change FAST, so be prepared. If you're rolling in a two-wheel drive between June and the October long weekends, snow chains are a must between Thredbo and Tom Groggin. Honestly, they might be needed elsewhere too! The area's harsh, so they spend a lot of time keeping the road in good shape. Watch out for rockfalls after it rains, though!
Set aside 2.5 to 4 hours to cruise the whole thing. The views are knockout. Think rugged mountains, panoramic vistas, the works!
Just a heads up, some parts between Khancoban and Thredbo are narrow and steep. This isn't a route for trucks, buses, or huge caravans. But if you're up for an adventure, you won't regret this drive!
Where is it?
Alpine Way is an ideal road trip in Australia is located in Australia (oceania). Coordinates: -28.1579, 133.2615
Road Details
- Country
- Australia
- Continent
- oceania
- Length
- 123 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,597 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- -28.1579, 133.2615
Related Roads in oceania
extremeDriving the Mitchell Highway is a truly outstanding adventure
🇦🇺 Australia
Okay, road trip lovers, listen up! The Mitchell Highway is calling your name! This epic stretch of asphalt connects Queensland and New South Wales, offering a seriously scenic adventure through the heart of Australia. Named after a legendary explorer, this highway is a vital link for both travelers and freight. Clocking in at a whopping 1,105 km (687 mi), it's one of the longest roads in Oz. You can cruise it in any vehicle, thanks to its fully paved surface. The views are incredible, but be warned: this route is REMOTE. Seriously, plan your stops, fuel, and overnight stays in advance. Mobile reception can be patchy, and you DO NOT want to be stuck out here at night. Why? Animals! They love to wander onto the road, making nighttime driving super risky. It is a very dangerous road, so take extra precautions. But if you're prepared, the Mitchell Highway promises an unforgettable Aussie road trip!
moderateWhy is it called Charlotte Pass?
🇦🇺 Australia
Alright adventurers, buckle up for Charlotte Pass! Nestled high in the New South Wales Snowy Mountains, this beauty tops out at 1,840m (6,037ft), making it one of Australia's highest drivable points. Fun fact: it's named after Charlotte Adams, a pioneering lady who was the first European woman to conquer Mount Kosciuszko back in 1881. The journey starts in Jindabyne, and from there it's smooth sailing (pavement all the way!) for 39.7 km (24.66 miles) along Kosciuszko Road. What awaits you at the end? A parking lot, yes, but also the starting point for the epic Mount Kosciuszko Summit walk. Plus, the views from Charlotte Pass lookout are incredible! Gaze south and you'll see the Charlotte Pass Snow Resort beckoning you for some winter fun. This whole area is smack-dab in Kosciuszko National Park, offering access to the most breathtaking alpine scenery Australia has to offer. Keep in mind, though, this is the Snowy Mountains – the weather can be a bit wild, so be prepared for anything! But trust me, the stunning vistas of Australia's tallest peaks are SO worth it.
moderateTravelling through the scenic Noah Creek bridge
🇦🇺 Australia
Okay, picture this: You're cruising along Cape Tribulation Road in Queensland, heading from Cape Trib towards Thornton Beach, and BAM! You hit the Noah Creek bridge. This isn't your average overpass, folks. We're talking a wooden bridge, built way back in WWII by the US Army Corps of Engineers, with planks under your tires. It's a short hop at just 22.7 meters (around 74 feet), and can handle vehicles up to 25 tons. This relic is not only functional, but gives you a little taste of history as you take in the gorgeous scenery.
hardWhat is the most isolated highway in Australia?
🇦🇺 Australia
Okay, picture this: the Great Northern Highway in Western Australia. It's not just a road, it's *the* road—the longest, most remote paved one on the planet! Seriously, this thing is epic. We're talking nearly 2,000 miles (3,195 km) stretching from Perth all the way north to Wyndham. This journey was created by merging various roads and tracks in 1944. Think red dirt, endless horizons, and that feeling of being completely, utterly alone. It's all paved, so no need for a 4x4 (though a comfy ride is recommended!). Mostly you'll find two-lane roads, but be prepared for single-lane bridges, especially up in the Kimberley. Now, a heads-up. This isn't a Sunday drive. It's a major freight route, so you'll be sharing the road with a *lot* of massive road trains. This highway is also prone to accidents. And when the wet season hits (November to May), parts of the road can vanish under several meters of water! Conditions here drastically change along the route, it can be dusty in the dry season and boggy in the wet season. So, fill up your tank, bring *plenty* of water and supplies, and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. Seriously, avoid driving at night. Phone signal is patchy at best. This is an adventure, not a race. Take your time, stay safe, and get ready for some seriously stunning scenery!