With around 5.3 million people and located on the east coast of Australia, Sydney is one of the most famous cities in the world. Its residents are known as people who love to laugh, live, and enjoy all the benefits life has to offer.

One of the top weekend getaway ideas for Sydneysiders is off-roading. These people love to pack their UTEs and head to some of the many getaway locations specialised for UTE off-road driving. If you find this something you like, you are already getting goosebumps just thinking about it.

If you’re new to this whole idea of off-road driving and spending time in nature, you’re not entirely sure where to go. There are multiple options and choosing one is not easy if you have never tried any of them. In this article, we’re highlighting the three most interesting tracks any off-road lover can enjoy. Fasten your seatbelts and continue reading to explore the world of UTE off-roading.

1. Stockton Beach

A highly popular destination for everyone in New South Wales. Located just 170 km off Sydney, it is the perfect spot for those who don’t like wasting too much time getting to a destination or searching for something specific. It is a two-hour drive, which means anyone can get there without even stopping.

The track is 32 kilometres long which means you can enjoy some time driving through all sorts of sand challenges. From sandy roads to classic dunes, you need to overcome. This track is perfect for beginners but also for those who would like a challenge.

It is also perfect for those who love driving along the coast and let their thoughts go. Set your cruise control to 25 km/h and enjoy the views of the ocean. You can also experience some of the most fabulous sunrises you will ever see in your life.

Visiting Stockton Beach does not require a specific type of vehicle. You can do it with a 2wd or a 4wd UTE, but it is always better to have a 4×4 power in case something goes wrong. The only issue to mind is that camping is not allowed here, so you’ll have to find another place to stay during the night.

2. Blue Mountains National Park

Blue Mountains is a location even closer than Stockton Beach. It is only 80 km off Sydney, which means getting there is extremely fast and easy. Unlike the first option – dunes and ocean views, the Blue Mountains National Park offers staggering forests, nature scenery, and fresh air.

This track is suitable for beginners, intermediate drivers, and experts because many different tracks are available. They all have different difficulties, so ask the officials what might be the most suitable for your needs. If you’re an expert, search for the most challenging one, and if you’re a beginner, look for something simple.

There’s everything you might want here – steep slopes, rocky terrains, and, depending on the weather, some muddy puddles too. The roads go through outstandingly beautiful eucalyptus forests that offer a unique experience you might not find in many places worldwide.

Aside from driving, you can also try hiking, bushwalking, rock climbing, birdwatching, or camping. That means fill your aluminium toolbox to the top and prepare for a trip of a lifetime. Combine some driving, hiking, and enjoying nature for a perfect weekend getaway.

3. Watagans National Park

Watagans National Park is another location close enough for every Sydneysider. It is only 120 km from the city in the beautiful mountains near Newcastle. The area is famous for its rugged landscapes and different off-road tracks offering various driving experiences.

Best felt under a four-wheel-drive vehicle, the Watagans National Park off-road track offers something for everyone. It is excellent for beginners with its simple tracks that go through the wilderness. It will provide many challenges for intermediate and expert drivers who love something more than relaxed cruising.

Although there are multiple tracks, some of the most popular are The Great North Walk, the Monkey Face Road, and the Boarding House Dam Track. Ask about what might be the best for you and your needs, and follow the path you love the most.

When you become tired of driving, find one of the many fantastic locations for camping and picnicking. You may enjoy waterfalls and panoramic views of the surroundings, but also dense forests, hidden creeks, and many other gems that will make you reconnect with nature.

Conclusion

As you may see, these three options offer different experiences. If you love the beach and the sandy challenge, hit the Stockton Beach track, but if you prefer a trip to the wilderness, choose one of the other two options. Also, think about what you would like to do aside from driving, as all places provide various other features for you to enjoy aside from the off-road experience.