Don’t rely on your GPS on the South Face Road
Australia, oceania
30.3 km
1,478 m
moderate
Year-round
South Face Road, nestled in Victoria, Australia, is your rugged path up to Mount Baw Baw Alpine Resort, perched at a cool 1,478m (4,849ft).
This isn't your average Sunday drive! Starting north of Rawson off Thomson Valley Road, you'll be tackling 30.3km (18.82 miles) of unpaved beauty. Think stunning views as you wind through the National Park on narrower roads towards Mt Baw Baw.
The upside? This road isn't super twisty. If switchbacks make you queasy, you might prefer this route to the Mount Baw Baw Tourist Road. South Face Road’s more even gradient and easier turns are a godsend when the weather turns nasty!
Be warned: "easy" doesn't mean flat! Some sections are seriously steep, hitting a max gradient of 17%. Cyclists, this is one of Australia's toughest climbs!
Fuel up BEFORE you head up the mountain as there are no stations at the top, and don't trust your GPS implicitly, as coverage can be spotty. Watch out for logging trucks year-round, especially at intersections and around bends.
Alpine weather is no joke – it changes fast! Pack for all conditions, especially during winter when snow is common. Warm, waterproof gear, sunscreen, and tire chains (mandatory during snow season, last stop for chains is Erica!) are essential. And diesel drivers, don't forget your anti-freeze!
Where is it?
Don’t rely on your GPS on the South Face Road is located in Australia (oceania). Coordinates: -29.3885, 136.6228
Road Details
- Country
- Australia
- Continent
- oceania
- Length
- 30.3 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,478 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- -29.3885, 136.6228
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