Sydney’s got its fair share of traffic and concrete, but just a couple of hours west, you’re looking at some of the best off-road playgrounds in the country. Whether you’re after a scenic bush drive, a proper technical challenge, or a remote campsite by the river, there’s a track out here with your name on it.
From beginner-friendly routes to tracks that’ll have you gripping the wheel with white knuckles, here’s a rundown of the best 4X4 destinations west of Sydney.
Caves to Caves – Jenolan Caves to Wombeyan Caves
Quick Take
Experience Level: Mild to moderate—nothing extreme, but some tight, winding sections keep it interesting.
Highlights: Dramatic limestone cave systems, winding dirt roads, and classic Aussie bushland.
Don’t Miss: Stopping in at Jenolan Caves for a tour before tackling the dirt road to Wombeyan Caves.
Why It’s Worth It
This is one of those drives that’s more about adventure than outright difficulty. You start off at Jenolan Caves (or Kanangra-Boyd NP if the caves are shut – they frequently are), where the entrance alone is like something out of a fantasy movie, then wind your way through the bush towards Wombeyan Caves over the next three days. It’s an absolute cracker of a trip, with sweeping ridgelines, towering cliffs, and plenty of spots to stop and soak in the views.
While the track itself won’t push your 4X4 to its limits, the narrow, twisting sections and occasional washouts will keep things interesting. Plus, camping at Wombeyan Caves is unreal—set up near the gorge, kick back, and enjoy a proper bush escape.
Pro Tip: Pack a decent camera and a good torch. The caves are full of hidden gems you won’t see without the right lighting.
jenolan caves 4WD adventure west of sydney
Marrangaroo National Park
Quick Take
Experience Level: Beginner to intermediate—easy tracks, but some areas get washed out.
Highlights: Tranquil bush camping, riverside driving, and epic views.
Don’t Miss: A lilo around gentle cascades in the river—one of the best kept secrets around.
Why It’s Worth It
Marrangaroo is one of those places where the drive is just as good as the destination. The tracks here are mostly easy-going, perfect for anyone still getting used to their 4X4, or for those who’d rather cruise than conquer hardcore terrain. That said, some sections can be washed out after rain, so don’t assume it’s all smooth sailing.
The real magic of Marrangaroo is in the riverside campsites. If you snag a good spot, you’ll be treated to mirror-like reflections on the water and zero crowds—a rare thing so close to Sydney.
Pro Tip: If you’re here in winter, bring plenty of firewood—it gets chilly fast once the sun drops.
4wd tracks near jenolan caves in sydney
Gardens of Stone Conservation Area
Quick Take
Experience Level: Moderate to Extreme—but access rules keep changing.
Highlights: Insane rock formations, rugged terrain, and new conservation efforts.
Don’t Miss: The famous “pagoda” rock formations—something you won’t believe is so close to Sydney.
Why It’s Worth It
Gardens of Stone is getting a massive facelift. This area has been hammered by logging and mining for well over a hundred years, but it’s now being restored into a proper conservation zone. That means some tracks have been closed, but the ones that remain open are well worth the drive. Less hardcore 4X4ing is definitely a downer, but it’s good to see the area no longer being trashed.
The scenery is what sets this place apart. The “pagoda” rock formations look like something out of a sci-fi movie, and the feeling of isolation here is unreal. If you’re into photography or just love wild landscapes, it’s a must-visit.
Pro Tip: Check the NPWS website before heading out—closures change regularly, and you don’t want to drive all the way out here only to be turned around.
gardens of stone conservation area west of sydney 4wd trip
Lake Lyell
Quick Take
Experience Level: Intermediate to Advanced—some tracks are brutally steep.
Highlights: Technical 4X4 challenges, lakeside camping, and iconic climbs.
Don’t Miss: Having a crack at Fire Truck Hill—just make sure your 4X4 is up to scratch.
Why It’s Worth It
Lake Lyell is an off-roader’s dream. It’s home to some of the steepest, most rutted-out climbs either side of the Sandstone Curtain, including the legendary Fire Truck Hill. If you want to test your rig—and your nerve—this is where you’ll do it.
Not keen on pushing your luck? No worries—there are plenty of other tracks in the area that offer a mix of fun and challenge without the “am I about to roll this thing?” feeling. And when you’re done, you can set up camp right by the water, crack a beer, and swap war stories about how close you came to parking your rig on its roof rack.
Pro Tip: A winch isn’t optional if you’re tackling the hardest tracks here. Fit one, use it, and don’t be the one who holds up the convoy because you weren’t prepared.
Turon National Park
Quick Take
Experience Level: Beginner to intermediate—tracks range from easy to a bit of fun.
Highlights: Big country landscapes, epic lookouts, and riverside driving.
Don’t Miss: Pearson’s Lookout—the view will make you feel like a tiny speck in the bush.
Why It’s Worth It
Turon is Marrangaroo’s wilder, bigger brother. The tracks range from gentle riverside routes to rocky climbs that’ll test your tyres, so you can make it as challenging (or relaxed) as you want.
The best part? There’s no shortage of great spots to set up camp. Whether you’re after a quiet bush retreat or a base camp for serious 4X4ing, you’ll find it here.
And don’t forget the pubs nearby. A proper greasy, country-style pub meal after a long day of driving hits different—you won’t regret it.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on weather conditions—heavy rain can turn some tracks into a serious mess and the river crossing into camp will let you know about it.
always check the weather and water crossings before attempting them when 4wding off-road
We Go Wherever You Can
From beaches to bush tracks to water crossings, we cover 4X4s anywhere they’re allowed to go & can recover them when things go wrong.
Essential Tips Before Your Next Western Sydney Trip
Check Track Conditions
Some parks and tracks close unexpectedly due to weather or conservation efforts. Hit up the NPWS website before you go.
Pack Smart
You’re only a stones throw from Sydney, but no one’s coming to save you quickly. Carry extra water, spares, and a first-aid kit, and don’t assume reception will work.
Respect the Environment
Stick to the tracks, take your rubbish out, and keep it clean so we can keep coming back.
Plan for Emergencies
No phone signal? No problem—if you’re prepared. A UHF radio or satellite communicator can be a lifesaver in remote areas.
Test New Modifications Before You Leave
Don’t be that guy who fits new suspension or a winch the night before and then spends half the trip fixing it. Shake down your rig before heading remote.
There’s no shortage of river crossings west of the Great Dividing Range so make sure you’ve got a snorkel, and don’t be shy to walk the crossings before driving them.
Final Thoughts
Sydney might be a concrete jungle, but west of the Great Dividing Range is where the real adventure starts. Whether you’re looking for an easy bush escape or a weekend of wheel-lifting, heavy-winching action, there’s something here for everyone.
So, load up the rig, grab a few mates, and hit the dirt—you won’t regret it.
Keep the shiny side up!
Pat