
What are Big Red and Little Red tracks?
Australia, oceania
N/A
N/A
moderate
Year-round
Alright, 4WD fanatics, listen up! If you're heading to the Glasshouse Mountains in southeastern Queensland, Australia, you HAVE to check out Big Red and Little Red. These aren't your average dirt tracks; they're legendary!
Think you've got what it takes? Big Red and Little Red will put your 4WD skills to the ultimate test. We're talking serious obstacles that demand a capable vehicle, a spotter who knows their stuff, and a driver with serious experience. Big Red is the real beast, but don't underestimate Little Red β it's no walk in the park either. Trust me, photos and videos don't do justice to how intense these tracks can be.
Now, a heads-up: these tracks are currently being used as a service road due to recent flattening and bulldozing for powerline maintenance. Rollovers are super common out here, so come prepared. You'll need low range gearing, high ground clearance, traction aids, and all the recovery gear you can carry. Even lifted rigs with mud tires can struggle, especially when things get muddy β which they often do! Basically, come ready to use your recovery gear...a lot. But hey, that's half the fun, right? Get out there and see if you can conquer these iconic tracks!
Road Details
- Country
- Australia
- Continent
- oceania
- Difficulty
- moderate
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