Understanding Track Difficulty Ratings

Not all tracks are created equal — and neither are all difficulty rating systems. At 4WDGrid, we've developed a rating system specifically for Australian conditions.

The 4WDGrid Rating Scale

Easy (Green)

Suitable for stock 4WDs with basic off-road capability. Well-maintained dirt roads, gentle gradients, and minimal obstacles. Examples: most national park access roads, graded forestry tracks.

You'll need: 4WD with low range, basic recovery gear, reasonable tyres.

Medium (Orange)

Requires a capable 4WD with decent ground clearance. Expect some ruts, loose surfaces, moderate water crossings, and steeper gradients. Some experience recommended.

You'll need: Good all-terrain tyres, recovery boards, snatch strap, tyre deflation kit.

Hard (Red)

Challenging terrain that tests both driver and vehicle. Rock steps, deep ruts, steep descents, and potentially deep water crossings. Lockers strongly recommended.

You'll need: Minimum 2" lift, mud-terrain tyres, dual recovery points, winch recommended, travel with at least one other vehicle.

Extreme (Black)

The most demanding tracks. Expect vehicle damage risk, extreme articulation requirements, and conditions that push even heavily modified rigs to their limits. Expert drivers only.

You'll need: Purpose-built 4WD, full recovery kit including winch, experienced spotter, convoy recommended. Assess risk carefully.

How We Rate Tracks

Our ratings consider:

•Terrain type — rock, mud, sand, clay, mixed

•Gradient — steepness of climbs and descents

•Obstacles — size and frequency of rocks, ruts, washouts

•Width — passing room and recovery space

•Remoteness — distance from assistance

•Conditions variability — how much weather affects difficulty

Ratings on 4WDGrid are updated by the community, so they reflect real, current conditions — not just what the track was like five years ago.

Download 4WDGrid and never get caught out on a track you're not prepared for.