Although paved to the top, the Mt Baw Baw access road after the entry gate is very steep, and becomes icy because of its southerly aspect. It is a VicRoads Declared Hazardous Road beyond Tanjil Bren, as is the Thomson Valley Road to Mt St Gwinear, being unpaved beyond the Thomson Dam turn-off. The new South Face Road although wide, is very steep, with loose gravel, and sometimes mud, snow or fallen trees.

Wheel chains must be carried always (by law) during the season, and in snow conditions should be fitted to drive wheels for ascending, and front wheels for descending. A particular risk we have observed is with rear wheel drive, auto transmission, ABS-equipped cars. If chains are fitted to the rear wheels, on steep downhill corners steering is easily lost, the ABS system releases the brakes prematurely, and the transmission torque converter fails to disengage, causing the car to drive itself off the outside of the corner.

Not surprisingly, car rental companies do not allow their cars on these roads at all (the contract fine print voids insurance). Also if parked overnight, cars can suffer freezing problems affecting door locks, hand brakes, cooling systems and rubber engine timing belts.

This season is our eleventh year of operation at Mt Baw Baw, and we have worked hard to earn a reputation for reliable, punctual and friendly service.

Is your own 4WD just as good?
These days there are a lot more all-wheel-drive "soft roaders" getting about, and they are certainly much better than a 2WD vehicle in the snow. But before deciding your 4WD is  suitable for driving to Mt Baw Baw, consider the following questions: Is it full time or only part time 4WD? Does it have a large wheel diameter to maximise traction? Does it have a positively lockable centre diff or does it rely on "traction control" operated through the ABS brake system (which automatically releases the brakes if wheel lock-up is detected)? How experienced is the driver in steep, slippery conditions, in fitting wheel chains correctly, and in avoiding other traffic which may be out of control?                     

"Thank you very much for all of the history and information you were able to give us on the surrounding areas as we travelled up the mountain. We were all very grateful for the comfort and safety of your four wheel drive, especially on our trip down the mountain when we saw a car that had slid off the road in the icy conditions."     - Dianne H. (Queensland)