Jun 22, 2010

4WDING AROUND COFFS

The great thing about the Coffs Coast is the vast amount of areas that can be accessed at anyone time, wether it be in a 2wd car, a soft roader or something more serious with some lift , lockers and a winch. Surrounding Coffs, we have many State Forests, National Parks, designated Heritage listed areas that are great for walking and revisiting the past or some of the best beach drives in Australia through to extreme tracks. 

After setting up a base camp whether it be in a beach side caravan park, motel or any of the resorts that line our coast is just how easy it is to access any of the many local tracks to start exploring what there is to offer on the Coffs Coast. Trips can be as easy as several hours through to an overnight stay. Maybe drop the missus off to any of the local shopping centres and wheel in the bush for an hour or two!!. 

The Great Dividing Range almost touches the ocean, and this is why the 4wding here is regarded as some of the best in Australia.

Tracks in the hinterland can range from mild to wild, yet others are great for the family to explore pristine creeks, the old mines that litter our hills, maybe go bird watching or for the fitness fanatics it is a great spot to walk or cycle your time away. Having a wide range of roads that criss cross each other from park to park and having a vast range of groups with varied interests; it is only a matter of time before you encounter other vehicles exploring. It is best to drive with your lights on, to warn other uses that you may encounter, from bushwalkers, bike riders, other 4wders and even the odd log truck. 

The forests surrounding Coffs is a playground for bikes and 4wds and combined with our seasonal yet sometimes monsoonal rainfall, tracks can vary overnight- best to check with local authorities before you set out. Drive to the conditions at a safe speed and enjoy what we have to offer. Better still, travel with others in convoy procedure and by having radio contact not only can you warn them about an obstacle but also you can monitor local channels for other users in the area. 

Carrying a basic first aid kit will enable you to handle most situations from scratches, bruisers through to leeches which can be prolific in some rainforest areas. Vegetation varies from dry heavily timbered hills, pristine rainforest, stands of old growth forests through to timber plantations waiting to be harvested. Around every corner awaits a new view and the possibility of sighting many forms of wildlife that frequent our forests. Wallibies, koalas, lyrebirds, possums, snakes, rare frogs, the list is endless. It is best to be alert at all times as wildlife here can often appear out of nowhere.

Whilst driving in the Coffs hinterland, pick up the appropriate map for your area, stay on the designated sign posted roads and enjoy. If 4wding is not on your daily agenda, maybe a casual drive up through the Dorrigo wilderness area where on a clear day you can see forever from any of the local lookouts, or take a drive along our coast line visiting any of the quaint seaside villages-lunching at one of the many cafes that take advantage of our wonderful climate. Head to a local 4wd, camping shop or a local authority for the right advice on track condition.















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