
What’s on the summit of Mount Matlock?
Australia, oceania
1.9 km
1,372 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, adventurers, listen up! Deep in the south of Victoria, Australia, lies Mount Matlock, boasting a summit of 1,372m (4,501ft). What awaits you at the top? A seriously cool 37-meter fire tower, erected in '94 and bristling with comms gear. Don't expect to check your Insta though, cell service is a no-go.
The route? We're talking Corn Hill Road – a full-on unpaved 4WD track that’ll get your tires dusty. You'll find it nestled within the stunning Yarra Ranges National Park.
The off-road section is short and sweet – just 1.9 km (1.18 miles) from the C511 (Warburton-Woods Point Road). Don't let that fool you, though. You'll climb 167 meters with an average gradient of nearly 9%, so be prepared for a bit of a grunt. The scenery? Expect views to die for! Just remember to take it slow and steady and enjoy the ride.
Road Details
- Country
- Australia
- Continent
- oceania
- Length
- 1.9 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,372 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
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