FOUR WHEEL DRIVING IN ALBANY

Recovery tracks are becoming a must have for beach driving.

At present 4wd access is allowed along the beach and this provides access to the surf and fishing spots on this beach. Storm tides can make the beach impassable at times. To get there take the Lower Denmark Rd to Elleker and take the signposted Elleker Grasmere turnoff to Mutton Bird Rd. At the end of the road turn right and you will reach a lookout over the beach. A gravel track takes you onto the beach.

Correct tyre pressure will allow even the lowliest 4wd to traverse the soft sandy tracks and beaches. This also keeps the track in good condition and saves wear and tear on your vehicle when you get bogged. As a general rule 18psi is correct for sand.

There are many South Coast beaches accessible to 4wd's. If planning a journey along the beach exercise caution and common sense as tides , soft sand and unexpected waves can be treacherous. Carry a compressor and towing equipment or the new plastic tracks.

The reward from a long track into West Cape Howe is this magnificent view of the cliffs. Due to the sandy nature of many of the tracks, much of the park is accessible only to four-wheel drive vehicles. The main track out to the Southern tip and cliffs is a well worn track several kms back from the coastline. It is not signposted but clearly evident as the only passable 4WD track on the way to Shelley Beach.

The Windmills track is close to town and provides amazing views of the rugged cliffs and coastline as well as close up views of the wind generators. Access this track by taking Princess Drive off Frenchmans Bay Rd and turn right just before the windmills parking area down a gravel track.