The Ultimate Guide to Traveling the CREB Track
Located in northeast Queensland, Australia, the CREB Track is one of the Australia’s most spectacular and challenging four-wheel-drive trails. Make sure you have advanced 4WD experience, all the necessary recovery gear, and a winch if attempting in the wet.
The track is 71km long and winds its way through the Daintree Rainforest from Daintree to Wujal Wujal. The CREB Track (Cairns Regional Electricity Board) was originally the service access track for the old powerline to Cooktown. This is definitely not a Sunday drive. It’s regarded as one of Australia’s most spectacular and challenging four-wheel-drive trails. The track becomes incredibly steep with ascending peaks leading into big descents and river crossings.
The track is very steep and very rough. A speed of between 15 and 20kmh is advised. A traveler on this road must be experienced and completely devoted to safe, slow and obstacle-conscious driving to deter danger. This track requires low range, high ground clearance, traction aids and recovery gear. It’s suited for well-equipped 4WD vehicles and those with experience in vehicle self-recovery - it's easy to get bogged or stranded even after moderate rainfall so only use this track if you are confident that you can get yourself out of these situations. It is not suitable for trailers.
Road conditions are always changing. You should check local weather conditions before attempting to drive the track. The route has humbled many egos. The Track can be open from May-November. Other months is impassable as a result of high river crossings and slippery conditions. It’s closed during the wet season and at other times if the situation warrants it.
In case of a breakdown, there is very little in the way of passing traffic or inhabitants around, and no cell phone service in parts. It shouldn't be attempted after rain due to the red clay that makes up most of its length. The ride is rather remote, so you need to be prepared. Even after moderate rainfall, the track can become treacherous or impassable and vehicles easily become bogged or stranded. It’s not for the sissies and shouldn’t be attempted by novice drivers. Because of the hazardous conditions, Council may temporarily close the track without warning. Check track conditions in Council’s website.
Pic: http://www.tourismcapeyork.com/journeys/adventure-4wd/creb-track/