The Sunshine Coast is a playground for 4WD enthusiasts. From sandy beaches to rugged hinterland trails, there’s no shortage of adventure waiting for your rig. To help you plan your next off-road trip, we’ve rounded up the top 10 4WD tracks around the Sunshine Coast — plus the gear, maps, and prep checklist you’ll need before you hit the tracks.
Noosa North Shore & Double Island Point, Cooloola Recreation Area
Terrain: Soft sand, beach driving
Highlights: Greatr surf, fishing, views from the lighthouse, coloured sands, dolphin spotting in season.
Check tide times — avoid driving at high tide.
Drop tyre pressures to 15-20psi before entering the beach. Adjust as needed.
Beach camping at Teewah – Permits required
Freshwater track to Rainbow beach township
- Requires beach driving permit – Available at parks.qld.gov.au/vehicle-access-permit-cooloola
K'GARI (Formerly Fraser Island)
Terrain: Sandy inland tracks, Amazing coastal views
Highlights: Lake Mckenzie, Chapagne Pools, Ngkala Rocks, Eli creek, Great Sandy Straight
Tip: Fuel and food is available on the island, but better to prepare and carry what you need! It is very remote in lots of areas!
- The island is big! You will struggle to make it around all of the various spots in 2-3 days
- Check out this video to see some of the action at Ngkala Rocks! Be prepared!
Glass House Mountains Tracks
Terrain: Steep climbs, clay ruts, rocky sections
Highlights: Iconic volcanic plugs, rainforest scenery
Tip: Tracks can be deeply rutted and get boggy after rain — a well setup vehicle and recovery gear is a must!
Kenilworth Forest Drive
Terrain: Gravel, creek crossings
Highlights: Hinterland rainforest, camping spots
Tip: Ideal for beginners wanting an easy scenic 4WD trip.
Imbil State Forest
Terrain: Gravel, rocky climbs
Highlights: Lush forest, mountain views
Tip: Great spot for camping and testing suspension upgrades.
Conondale National Park
Terrain: Rocky climbs, river crossings
Highlights: Booloumba Creek, waterfalls, dense forest
Tip: Check road conditions in wet season.
Mapleton State Forest
Terrain: Mud, clay, narrow bush trails
Highlights: Cool mountain air, aweome forests and views
Tip: Pack recovery tracks for wet-weather trips.
Amamoor State Forest
Terrain: Dirt, creek crossings
Highlights: Creekside camping, 4WD loops
Tip: Family-friendly destination for camping weekends.
Bellthorpe National Park
Terrain: Technical 4WD tracks, steep climbs
Highlights: Rainforest valleys, waterfalls
Tip: Suited to more experienced drivers.
Mount Mee (D’Aguilar National Park)
Terrain: Rocky climbs, forest tracks
Highlights: Scenic lookouts, picnic areas
Tip: Close to Brisbane, perfect for a day trip.
Essential 4WD Gear Checklist
✔️ Tyre deflator & compressor
✔️ Recovery tracks
✔️ Snatch strap & rated shackles
✔️ UHF radio
✔️ First aid kit
✔️ Navigation maps or GPS
✔️ Spare tyre & tools
✔️ Drinking water & emergency supplies
Prep Tips Before You Go
Check weather & track conditions — Queensland storms can change tracks overnight.
Know your limits — stick to trails suited to your vehicle and skill level.
Respect local rules — stick to designated tracks to protect the environment.
Vehicle check-up — get your 4WD serviced before tackling long or remote trails.
Get your vehicle UP TO SPEED WITH Sunshine Coast 4WD Centre
The Sunshine Coast offers some of the best 4WD tracks in Queensland, whether you’re chasing sandy beach runs or rugged bush adventures. Before you head out, make sure your vehicle is in top condition — from suspension and tyres to recovery gear.