A rugged 5-Day 4WD Expedition through Victoria's High Country
Day 1: Dargo High Plains Road - An Enthralling Introduction
As the first rays of sun bathed the Victorian landscape in a golden glow, I fired up my 2006 Nissan Patrol, its burly engine roaring with anticipation. Our maiden voyage was the iconic Dargo High Plains Road, a legendary track that wove through the heart of the Alpine National Park.
The Patrol's robust build and precise handling quickly asserted itself on the gravel-strewn track. With each bend and turn, we bore witness to a vista more breathtaking than the last - from the rugged beauty of the Dargo River Valley to the sprawling expanse of the High Plains. The Nissan's independent front suspension negotiated the terrain with grace, making the ride smoother than anticipated.
At the pinnacle of the High Plains, we set up camp under a starlit sky, the perfect end to our first day, promising an adventure that was just beginning.
Day 2: Billy Goats Bluff – Conquering Heights
Billy Goats Bluff, a trail known for its heart-stopping inclines and dizzying heights, was our challenge for day two. Its reputation was intimidating, but the Nissan Patrol, with its 4.8L inline 6 petrol engine, was more than ready to tackle it.
The track was a relentless upward journey, with sections so steep they seemed to kiss the sky. However, the Patrol's reliable 4WD drivetrain and low-range gearing kept us steady and unwavering.
Reaching the top felt like an enormous achievement, the view from the summit was awe-inspiring. We stood in silence, drinking in the panorama of valleys below, verdant forests, and distant peaks - a testament to the wilderness of the High Country.
Day 3: Journey Through the Past – Wonnangatta Valley
Our third day took a turn towards the offbeat as we veered onto the Wonnangatta Track, delving deep into the history of the High Country. The route, with its tight turns and rutted sections, required thoughtful wheel placement, but the Patrol's high clearance and diff lock options made it a formidable adversary to the challenging terrain.
In the heart of the valley, the abandoned Wonnangatta Station stood as a stark reminder of a bygone era. As night fell, we found ourselves under a surreal night sky, a spectacle of shimmering stars that blanketed the remote wilderness in a soft, ethereal glow.
Day 4: Skyward Bound - Blue Rag Range Track
As day four dawned, we geared up to traverse the Blue Rag Range Track, celebrated for its elevation - one of the highest drivable points in Australia. With steep switchback climbs and loose rocky terrain, it was a test of the Patrol's power and resilience. But the vehicle, in its element, rose to the occasion, with its torque-heavy performance shining through.
The summit offered an otherworldly spectacle. We stood amidst a sea of clouds, rolling green hills punctuating their endless expanse. Driving in such high altitudes, with the Patrol ploughing through the mist like a ship through waves, was an experience bordering on the mystical.
Day 5: Stepping Into Cinematic History - Craig's Hut and Stirling Circuit
The final leg of our expedition led us to the iconic Craig's Hut, a relic of cinematic history, and the thrilling Stirling Circuit. With deep ruts, rock steps, and muddy sections, the track presented a befitting challenge for our last day.
The Patrol, with its superior ground clearance and locking differentials, powered through with grace and grit, turning obstacles into mere stepping-stones. The Hut, nestled amidst stunning mountainous backdrops, was a sight to behold - the perfect spot to capture a memento with our unbeatable Nissan.
As we navigated back to civilization, the Nissan Patrol purred contentedly, having proven itself against the ruggedness of the High Country. From steep inclines and rocky terrains to river crossings and historical trails, this beast of a vehicle had embraced all challenges with unparalleled poise and power.
The Victorian High Country, with its undulating landscapes, vast valleys, and rich history, had enthralled us beyond measure. The culmination of this experience was the respect we gained for the stalwart that was our 2006 Nissan Patrol - a testimony to Nissan's legacy of crafting vehicles that not only withstand the challenges of the wild but revel in them.
As we cast one last look at the receding peaks in our rear-view mirror, we knew this journey would forever echo in our hearts. The allure of the wild, the challenge of the trails, and the steadfast spirit of our Patrol had woven together an unforgettable tale of adventure, resilience, and discovery.
I hope you enjoyed reading this trip report. Although I have done a similar trip many times through the high country. I just generated this report with ChatGPT. Leave a comment if you found any mistakes in here and I will be sure to let it know.
