Mount Hotham is the highest point on the Great Alpine Road
Australia, oceania
303 km
1,862 m
moderate
Year-round
Alright, fellow adventurers, let's talk about tackling Mount Hotham in Victoria, Australia! Perched way up high at 1,862m (6,109ft), it's the ultimate high point on the legendary Great Alpine Road (B500).
Since way back in '97, the road to the top has been fully sealed, making it the highest paved road in the whole country! Speaking of the Great Alpine Road (B500), this epic journey stretches for a whopping 303 km (188 mi).
Nestled in the Victorian Alps, this beauty, affectionately known as the GAR, is one of Australia's highest roads. It's usually open even in winter, but be warned, snow can throw a wrench in your plans, especially between Harrietville and Omeo. During snow season, diamond-pattern snow chains are a must. The route gets hit with snow frequently during the winter and needs daily clearing. Mother Nature can be a bit temperamental here, so closures aren't uncommon. Chains are available for rent on either side of the road, so you're covered.
The Hotham Pass itself is a 32.6 km (20.25 miles) stretch linking Harrietville to Hotham Heights. The climb from Harrietville isn't crazy steep, but you'll still want to pay attention. You'll be sharing the road, and things can get a little tight in spots. Keep your eyes peeled because some sections have seriously steep drop-offs right next to the road, and sometimes there aren't any crash barriers. The views though? Totally worth it!
Where is it?
Mount Hotham is the highest point on the Great Alpine Road is located in Australia (oceania). Coordinates: -26.4216, 135.9860
Road Details
- Country
- Australia
- Continent
- oceania
- Length
- 303 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,862 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- -26.4216, 135.9860
Related Roads in oceania
extremeWhen was Mount Spec Road built?
🇦🇺 Australia
Okay, picture this: you're cruising in North Queensland, Australia, ready to tackle Mount Spec Road. This isn't just any drive; it's a 21.7 km (13.48 miles) rollercoaster from Barrett Road to Ewan Paluma Road, winding tightly up and down the range. They actually started building this thing way back when, and you can tell it took a *lot* of effort! Now, heads up – the pavement's good, but the road gets seriously narrow in sections, with some real drop-offs right at the edge. Talk about stunning views, though! Expect some hairpin turns that'll keep you on your toes, with gradients between . It is definitely a road where you need to keep your eyes on the road ahead, and buses and caravans are advised to take it slow and easy. FYI: Paluma Range National Park sometimes closes this road, especially during the wet season due to flooding, and occasionally in the drier months if there are fires. But the real star of the show? The Little Crystal Creek Bridge. This arch bridge is the *only* one of its kind still in use in Queensland! It's a testament to the incredible work that went into building this road. Trust me, it's a drive you won't forget.
extremeWhere is the Sandy Cape Track?
🌍 Tasmania
Get ready for an epic Aussie adventure on the Sandy Cape Track, located on Tasmania's wild West Coast, just south of Temma in the Arthur-Pieman Conservation Area! This legendary 39-mile (63.46 km) 4WD route is not for the faint of heart. We're talking extreme terrain, stunning scenery, secluded beaches, and unbelievable campsites. You'll need a seriously capable, high-clearance, heavily modified 4WD and a healthy dose of experience to tackle this beast. Oh, and don't forget your Off-Road Permit from the Arthur River Parks & Wildlife office! Think muddy waterholes, steep, boggy dunes, river crossings, and maybe even some quicksand surprises! Deep water, treacherous mud and sand sections, and rocky ridges make this a true test of your off-roading skills. Never go it alone – bring at least two other equally equipped vehicles and be prepared to use all your recovery gear. A snorkel is a must! The best time to hit this track is generally between December and April. But be warned, Tassie weather is notoriously unpredictable, and conditions are constantly changing. Always check the local forecast before you go, as the track can be closed without notice due to hazardous conditions. Avoid it after rain at all costs! That red clay becomes super slippery, and you'll be begging for a tow truck in no time!
hardNevis Road in NZ: Not Suitable for 2WD Vehicles
🇳🇿 New Zealand
Okay, picture this: you're cruising in Otago, New Zealand, near the Southland border, ready for an epic adventure. You're about to tackle the Nevis Road! This isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking 65 km (40 miles) of unpaved glory, stretching from Bannockburn Road (close to Cromwell) all the way to State Highway 6 near Garston. Expect river crossings! Now, listen up: 2WD vehicles can usually make it to Duffers Saddle for about half the year, but honestly, this road is begging for a 4WD. In good weather, it's a rewarding drive. Beyond Duffers Saddle, though, 4WD is a must. The Nevis Valley section? That's strictly 4WD territory, and get ready for a rough ride with plenty of fords. As you climb, you'll find yourself high in the Old Woman Range, reaching a peak of 1,275 m (4,183 ft) at Duffers Saddle. Keep an eye out for the sign – it marks the highest public road in New Zealand! But be warned, the weather here is no joke. The road is closed from early June to September 30th for winter. Even in summer, things can change fast, so keep an eye on conditions. Snow or high river levels can make it impassable. Definitely bring a buddy or another vehicle – you're going to be pretty remote. Speaking of remote, be prepared. Seriously. Don't go solo. There's zero cell service, so if you get stuck, you're on your own. You won't see many other vehicles out here. You'll be too busy navigating the 26-ish river crossings anyway. And keep an eye out for historical reminders scattered throughout the area. Just a heads-up: heavy rain can make the track muddy and those river crossings a bit deeper.
hardHow long is Hughenden Muttaburra Road?
🇦🇺 Australia
Get ready for an Outback adventure on the Hughenden Muttaburra Road (part of State Route 19) in Queensland, Australia! This isn't your average Sunday drive. Clocking in at 210 km (130 miles), this north-south track links Hughenden to Muttaburra, and it's best tackled with a 4WD or high clearance vehicle. While much of the road is open to all, be warned: Mother Nature throws some curveballs! We're talking about infamous black soil patches that turn treacherous with a hint of rain. Expect some serious corrugation too, especially that final 100km stretch heading into Hughenden from Muttaburra. Brace yourself for sharp gravel, deep ruts, and granite boulders that can wreak havoc on your vehicle's undercarriage. The road climbs to 376m (1,233ft) above sea level and boasts plenty of steep sections. Forget those 100kph speed limit signs – you'll be lucky to hit 60kph without risking damage. For 2WD vehicles, especially those towing a caravan, this road is a true gravel nightmare! But with the right vehicle and a sense of adventure, you'll experience the raw, untamed beauty of the Australian Outback!