What are the highest roads in Australia?
Australia, oceania
N/A
N/A
hard
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're in the Aussie Alps, right? Not what you expect from Down Under, I know! We're talking proper mountains, part of that massive Great Dividing Range that runs down the east coast. This particular stretch of road? It’s a bit of a beast, climbing high into the hills. We're looking at a decent length, enough to make a day of it. Watch out for sharp turns and steep drop-offs – this isn't a Sunday drive in the park! But trust me, the views are totally worth it. Think rugged peaks, eucalyptus forests clinging to the slopes, and panoramas that stretch forever. Forget the beach for a day and head for the hills; this road trip will seriously blow your mind!
Where is it?
What are the highest roads in Australia? is located in Australia (oceania). Coordinates: -23.2363, 132.1508
Road Details
- Country
- Australia
- Continent
- oceania
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- -23.2363, 132.1508
Related Roads in oceania
extremeThe defiant Otaki Gorge Road in New Zealand is closed after a big slip
🇳🇿 New Zealand
Get ready for a seriously scenic – but challenging – adventure on the Otaki Gorge Road, nestled in the Kapiti Coast District of New Zealand's North Island. This isn't just a Sunday drive; it's an experience! Starting from State Highway 1, this 17.9km (11.12 miles) dead-end road hugs the Otaki River, winding its way from the town of Hautere towards the majestic Tararua Ranges. The first 13km are smooth sailing on paved road. But hold on tight, because the last 5km are where things get interesting! The road turns into a narrow, winding gravel track, with heart-stopping drops down to the steely river on one side and towering cliffs, often shrouded in misty veils, on the other. Pro tip: remember that stopping on gravel takes way longer than on sealed roads! This road isn't for the faint of heart, especially after rain. Slips are common, so check conditions beforehand and take it super slow. Daylight is your friend here – night driving is a definite no-no. And some sections are seriously steep, so keep that speed under 20 km/h. As of April 2024, the road is closed to both vehicles and pedestrians due to a slip at Blue Bluff. Camping is available at Boielle's Campsite but you can only get there on foot. Because the road is closed, it's not being maintained and will stay closed until further notice. If you need to get to Ōtaki Forks, there's a 5km emergency track you can walk which starts 200m past the locked gate on Ōtaki Gorge Road. One of the absolute highlights is the Waihoanga Road Bridge, a swing bridge offering breathtaking views of the Otaki River and the surrounding gorge. Trust me, you'll want to have your camera ready; the photo ops are incredible! Fun fact: Otaki Gorge was even used to represent the Shire woods in Peter Jackson's Lord of the Rings movies.
moderateIs the road to Whakapapa ski field paved?
🇳🇿 New Zealand
Cruising through Manawatū-Whanganui, on New Zealand's North Island, you'll find the road to Whakapapa, a ski resort perched way up high. We're talking 1,624m (5,328ft) above sea level! The paved road, Bruce Road, is 6.2km (3.85 miles) of smooth sailing (relatively speaking for a ski field road!) starting from State Highway 48. Don't let that fool you though, it’s a pretty steep climb, with some sections hitting an 11% gradient – buckle up! You’ll gain 457 meters in elevation, with an average gradient of 7.37%. Located on the northern slopes of Mount Ruapehu, the landscape is epic but the weather can change in a heartbeat. Keep an eye on the forecast and pack accordingly. You might even need chains, especially in a 2WD, as you near Whakapapa Village. Also, keep your eye out for a 4x4 only service road (-39.244768, 175.561340) that isn't paved! It leads even further up the mountain to 1,778m (5,833ft). This area has claimed lives in the past due to severe weather. Be prepared!
hardWaikawau Tunnel Beach was cut with picks and shovels
🇳🇿 New Zealand
Okay, picture this: You're cruising along the West Coast of New Zealand's North Island, somewhere between Marokopa and Awakino. You're heading for Waikawau Beach, and the only way in is through a crazy-cool tunnel. Waikawau Road is a bit of a wild ride to get to, winding its way along the coast, but trust me, it's worth it. Then you get to the tunnel. This isn't just any tunnel; it's 80 meters long and carved right through the sandstone cliffs. Back in 1911, some hardcore workers dug it out by hand so farmers could move cattle. Now, it's just for pedestrians, adding a touch of adventure to your beach trip. Emerging from the tunnel is like stepping into another world. You're greeted by a totally isolated black sand beach. This hidden gem on the King County coast is the perfect reward for those willing to venture off the beaten path.
hardHow to drive the long Diamantina Developmental Road in Queensland?
🇦🇺 Australia
Okay, buckle up, road trip lovers! The Diamantina Developmental Road in Queensland, Australia is calling your name. This epic trek clocks in at a whopping 1,344 km (835 mi) and connects Charleville in the south-central part of the state all the way to Mount Isa in the northwest. You'll be rolling through charming outback towns like Quilpie, Windorah, Bedourie, Boulia, and Dajarra. Most of the route is smooth sailing on sealed roads, so just about any vehicle can handle it. But be warned: some stretches between Windorah and Boulia are unsealed, adding a touch of off-road adventure. You'll be following State Route 14, State Route 12, and National Route 83. Expect some seriously stunning scenery as you cross iconic rivers and creeks, including the Paroo, Bulloo, Cooper Creek, and the Diamantina River itself. Just keep an eye out – river crossings can get tricky in wild weather. Speaking of weather, be prepared for anything! Pack plenty of water and fuel, watch out for wandering animals, and maybe skip the nighttime driving. Phone reception can be spotty, so planning is key for this Aussie outback escapade. Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!