
Duncans Pass
Australia, oceania
N/A
912 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, adventure time! Let's talk about Duncans Pass, chilling way up high in the Blue Mountains of New South Wales, Australia. We're talking 912 meters above sea level!
Now, to get to the top, you'll be tackling the Narrow Neck Plateau Trail – and this ain't your average Sunday drive. It's a gravel fire trail, so 4x4 is a must. The surface can get pretty loose, especially near the edges, so stay sharp! This road is steep and narrow.
Keep in mind you're climbing high, passing through some seriously remote areas. Be prepared for anything! The last section is blocked off with a locked gate, so you'll have to hoof it the rest of the way. Also, heads up – after a bit of rain, this track turns into a muddy, slippery mess. During and after a storm, it might be totally impassable, even with a trusty 4WD. But hey, think of the views across the Blue Mountains National Park! Worth it, right?
Where is it?
Duncans Pass is located in Australia (oceania). Coordinates: -25.0377, 132.9642
Road Details
- Country
- Australia
- Continent
- oceania
- Max Elevation
- 912 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- -25.0377, 132.9642
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