Welcome to the TJM Northern Beaches guide to the best 4WD tracks near Sydney. 

You’re in for a pleasant surprise! 

With so many options in NSW, it's hard to choose just a few, but we've selected the ones that promise the most inspiring well-rounded experiences.

A good balance in terms of distance from Sydney and natural attractions versus 4WD thrill.  

Trail and tested by your truly -The NB Northern Beaches Team. 

Glen here, owner of TJM Northern. 

As an avid 4x4-er, I understand the enjoyment of exploring off-road trails and uncovering hidden treasures in nature. The TJM Northern Beaches Team is dedicated to helping adventurers like you gear up for epic journeys. 

We’re a team of experienced 4x4 accessory fitters and mechanics who assist customers every day with a wide range of accessories, from bull bars to suspension to roof top tents. With our expertise and passion for all things 4WD, we're here to ensure you're ready for whatever lies ahead.

Whether you're a seasoned off-roader or new to this game, the 4WD tracks we’re about to go through offer unforgettable adventures a short distance from Sydney. 

Escape the city and traverse rugged terrain, navigate river crossings, and discover the natural wonders and hidden history of NSW. 

Saving the BEST track till last, the Epic Blue Water Holes 4WD Track with limestone caves and an abundance of trout fishing.  

Keep in mind that track conditions can vary depending on recent weather and maintenance. Before you hit the road, make sure to check the weather and park conditions. And if you want more detailed information, maps, and coordinates, visit TJM Northern Beaches online or in-store. We’ve got 4WD maps galore! 

Unearth History With an Adventure Through the Lost City and Newnes State Forest 

On the edge of the Blue Mountains lies an epic adventure waiting to be discovered - Lost City and Newnes State Forest. This track is an adult playground, offering a treasure trove of delights including eerie abandoned mining towns, the enigmatic Lost City, and the mesmerizing Glow Worm Tunnel. 

It's vast, stretching through the Newnes State Forest, Garden of Stone National Park and the Wollemi National Park. If you’re a Sydney-sider keen to see all the attractions on this track we recommend at least a camp overnight. You can cover some of the attractions in a day trip but a weekend escapade is the go! 

The track entrance is accessible from the nearest towns of Lithgow and Lidsdale and ends mid-way up the Wolgan River at Newnes Campground. 

The track presents a mix of challenges, from rocky terrain to low and high-range driving. 

Take a short walk to the Glow Worm Tunnel, a 400-meter marvel housing a colony of luminous inhabitants. The tunnel was once part of the thriving mining industry at Newnes.

You can explore the remains of the old shale oil mining town. Here, you'll encounter an old large Furnesses and Mine heritage park with rugged walls and brick kilns, and hear the whispers of a forgotten time.

Only a little bit creepy but worth it! 

The Lost City is a natural wonder of towering rock structures as far as the eye can see. The rock has formed into tiered-like towers with multiple eaves resembling an old civilisation. Think of the Pagoda towers in China and Thailand. It's a sight to see! 

While the main track accommodates AWD vehicles, the track to the Lost City requires a capable 4WD. 

You can then end the day by setting up camp at the Little Capertee camping area. This site offers stunning views of the Wollemi National Park valley. 

A must-do track for all 4WD Sydney siders! 

The Unforgettable Bendethra Valley, NSW 4WD ONLY Track 

Ok, this one is a little further from Sydney especially if you’re in the Northern part but if you can snag an extra day off. Make it a 3-day weekend - it’s certainly worth it! 

Bendethra Valley is a hidden gem nestled between the mid-far NSW South Coast and the Snowy Mountains. Between the towns of Cooma, Braidwod and Moyura in the Deua National Park. 

This track is a true haven for 4WD enthusiasts. It has a little something for everyone!

Moruya is a good option to start at if you’d like to make a day trip of it from the coast. 

You’ll begin by winding your way through the enchanting Dampier State Forest before descending into Bendethra Valley below. Be prepared for several exciting river crossings along the way and some very steep tracks. The excitement level will depend on the amount of rainfall that’s occurred. 

You’ll also encounter remnants of an old settlement and discover the rich history of the land.

As you navigate through the valley, you’ll feel a sense of solace in the abundance of flat shady camping spots along the Deua River. 

Picturesque to say the least. 

The Bendethra Valley offers a truly immersive outdoor experience. It’s perfect for a peaceful night under the stars. There’s also plenty of fishing and wildlife spotting. 

However, exercise caution during inclement weather, as the track's rugged terrain can quickly become treacherous. 

You can decide to finish off at Braidwood or Cooma both beautiful NSW towns. Or you can finish off back in Moyura at the Waterfront Hotel with a cold beer and a chicken parmie. 

It’ll be the freshest drink you’ve ever tasted after coming off the Benedethra tracks! 

The Epic Blue Water Holes 4WD Touring Track

The Bluewater Holes Track is a 4WD experience perfect for any season except the winter months when snowfall closes most of the trail. 

The Anzac Day long weekend would be ideal for this trip. Later April can offer ideal frosty nights and beautiful clear warm sunny days. You can start this track at Cooma end or Canberra. 

Be prepared for a scenic marvel, especially along Long Plain Road, where vast treeless plains stretch to the horizon. If you’re lucky like we were you’ll see a back of wild brumbies running in sync across the plains. 

Nature lovers will enjoy the track's natural features, including the Yarrangobilly Caves, the blue water holes with limestone caves, and Clarke Gorge. 

The Clarke Gorge Walk is a must. 

It weaves alongside Caves Creek and limestone rock walls. Sturdy reef shoes are recommended for creek crossings and shorts. The water can be icy and walking the track with wet clothes is not pleasant. In the end, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the gorge.  Keep an eye out for trout swimming in the crystal-clear creek along the walk. 

There’s an abundance. 

There are also five caves to explore, including the renowned Blue Water Holes cave  Coolman One and Two, Barbers and Murray Caves. Suitable for inexperienced cavers.  

Whether planning a day trip from Cooma or a multi-day adventure from Canberra, the Bluewater Holes Track promises incredible experiences for all.

There you have it! 

You don’t need to be in Western Australia to enjoy some decent 4WD and nature's beauty! NSW can be underestimated by what the 4WD track has to offer. All three tracks will not disappoint. 

You’ll get your 4WD fix! 

For detailed maps and coordinates of these tracks, visit our shop today in person or online. Start your next adventure with confidence and quality 4WD gear from TJM Northern Beaches.