This trip is a scenic drive that starts at Wisemans Ferry and follows the Macdonald River through St Albans and on to the Great North Rd.
Along the trail we will stop for some photo opportunities and to check out the old cemetery before St Albans where a few first-fleeters are buried, some remains of convict-built structures and road sections before heading into the Yengo National Park. We will head for the Finchley Lookout for some amazing views and then head out via the Howes Valley Trail to Putty Rd.
For anyone who has the 4WD Treks Close to Sydney book from Boiling Billy publications, this is Trek 4.
Anyone keen to make a weekend of it can easily continue to the Hunter Valley for the wineries or find a campsite to overnight and do some additional trails on Sunday.
Grade:
The standard is generally easy and suitable for beginners and non-Wrangler drivers, although the Howes Valley Trail is rough, rocky and narrow in places and you will need some ground clearance and all-terrain tyres for traction. Low range is generally not required but airing down a few psi is a good idea.
Meeting point:
8.30am in the park just opposite the ferry - Google Maps. There are two ferries at Wisemans, so when you get to the bottom of the hill, turn right to stay on Old Northern Rd and follow it to the end.
Duration and exit:
The trip from Wisemans Ferry to Putty Rd is approx 125kms and takes about 5 hours to complete, not including stops. Plan on reaching the Putty Rd end by around 5pm, from there it is a 116km drive to Windsor.
This is the exit point: https://goo.gl/maps/dA5VXKCKSbcKVErF8
Fuel is available at Wisemans Ferry
What to bring:
You will need a UHF radio to stay in touch with the convoy. Some sections of the trail are narrow and there are contra-flow controls in place around landslides and roadworks which may separate the convoy.
Bring a camera for the scenery, pack a lunch and appropriate clothing for the weather.
Vehicle limits:
12 Jeeps, including the trip leader. The trail is narrow in places and parking is limited so managing a larger group would be difficult.
Trip leader:
Julian Olencewicz - 0425 277 721
