A spectacularly scenic journey that draws four-wheel-drive tourers from all over Australia, Wonnangatta Icon Drive is a must-do for adventure-seekers in Alpine National Park. Take in the rich history and heritage of the High Country as you drive these rugged tracks.
For those keen to get well off the beaten track, into mountain history, and onto some magnificent four wheel drive tracks, the Wonnangatta Icon Drive is one of the best four wheel driving experiences in Australia.
Accessible only by 4WD, the breathtaking 222-kilometre loop takes you through Wonnangatta Valley, the Grant Historic Area, the remote community of Dargo, and up to the unmatched panoramas of the Alps offered by the Howitt and Dargo High Plains.
Explore the remains of the pioneer miners and graziers, and discover the heritage huts built by mountain cattlemen in the early 20th century. Linger by 100m waterfalls, and breathe the high mountain air as you step out of the vehicle to stroll beneath Alpine Ash and over grassy alpine plains.
Stop at the many lookouts and family walk locations to take in the glorious mountain scenery and learn more about the European history of the area, including the ruins of an old homestead near the confluence of the Conglomerate Creek and Wonnangatta River. Historic huts, bridges and campsites abound, and offer a glimpse into the hardship experienced by the pioneer settlers of the region (or, if you stop at the Loo With A View at Vallejo Gantner Hut, a meditative glimpse from a longdrop throne onto an improbably awesome view).
You should allow two to three days for this drive, and remember that many tracks are rated Difficult – this is a tour for experienced four-wheel drivers. The whole loop is classified as Very Difficult in dry conditions, so be prepared.
You'll need to take all you need for self-sufficient camping – check the Visitor Guide and 4WD Victoria's Wonnangatta Drive brochure [PDF] for more details on where to make camp.
Things To Do
Dispersed camping in Alpine National Park
Hiking in Alpine National Park
Cross-country skiing
Hunting in Alpine National Park
Fishing
Horse riding
Bird watching
How to get there
Wonnangatta Icon Drive
There are several access routes to join the drive. The most popular entry points are:
- From Heyfield through Licola
- From Dargo
- From Myrtleford or Porepunkah
- From Mansfield
When you're there
Wonnangatta Icon Drive
Need to know
Wonnangatta Icon Drive
Accessibility
Change of Conditions
Nature being nature, sometimes conditions can change at short notice. It’s a good idea to check this page ahead of your visit for any updates.
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Notices Affecting Multiple Sites
TRACK CLOSURE: Wild Horse Gap Track, Alpine National Park
Wild Horse Gap Track is currently closed as a result of poor track condition until further notice.Access to the park is not affected - alternate routes are available that will enable transit through this section of the Alpine National Park. If you require assistance with journey planning as a result of the closure, please contact the local Parks Victoria office for assistance via 13 19 63.McMillans Road - Grant Historic Area - Is currently recommended for 4WD vehicles
McMillans Rd in the Grant Historic Area is currently recommended for 4WD vehicles. Vehicles travelling on McMillans Rd require attention to variations of the surface condition (sections of clay and slippery surfaces, ruts and pot holes). Allow more time for your journey and always drive to the conditions. Reconsider need to tow caravans and be aware of winter conditions. -
Moroka Hut and Camping Area (Alpine National Park)
Moroka River Pedestrian Bridge CLOSED until further notice
The Moroka River pedestrian bridge is closed until further notice due to being assessed as structurally unsound.Access to Moroka Hut is via the Moroka Range Walking Track (4WD only). -
Alpine National Park
Eastern Alps track closures due to storm and flood damage
The 4x4 tracks in the Eastern Region are an iconic part of Victoria and an important focal point for many people. With a large number of visits per year, they are very popular for outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, mountain biking and four-wheel driving.Unfortunately, sometimes we must close infrastructure in the interests of public safety and environmental protection.
The following tracks have been significantly damaged by storms and floods and are currently closed to motor vehicles to ensure public safety and environmental protection:- Cobberas Track
- Macfarlane Flat Track
- Ingeegoodbee Track
Before visiting, Visitors should always check the Parks Victoria website for the latest information about their destination.Mt Pinnibar Track - poor track conditions
Mt Pinnibar Track, between Walkers Road and Tom Groggin Track, has developed sections of significant and deep track erosion following flood and storm events.While the track remains open it is recommended that only experienced drivers in well equipped 4WD vehicles attempt this track in dry conditions.All visitors are advised to consider alternate routes to the summit of Mt Pinnibar until repairs can be carried out.Restricted Access at Eastern end of Spring Saddle Track
The eastern end of Spring Saddle Track has restricted access due to machinery continuing to clear soil as part of the Bogong Village landslip remediation works. The track is open to pedestrian traffic but not vehicles and no Park visitors will be able to enter the works site at the Eastern end of Spring Saddle Track. There is signage explaining the restrictions at the Spring Saddle Track Fainter Fire Trail intersections. - Cobberas Track
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Notices Affecting Multiple Parks
Ground shooting operations targeting deer
Control operations (ground shooting) targeting deer are undertaken in this area. The Park will remain open to visitors during operations.
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