Vehicle Suitability for Gibb River Road

by John and Jen
(Perth)

Western end of the Gibb River Road: Inglis Gap

My question relates to the suitability of our vehicle for the Gibb River Road, particularly as you point out the importance of your vehicle's clearance. We've got a ten year old four wheel drive Rodeo which is in good condition, however, it doesn't have the clearance of a Landcruiser.

We'll be up there in August and will only have time to do the western end of the Gibb River Road (Derby-Bell Gorge-Windjana Gorge-Tunnel Creek).

Do you reckon we'll be right? A couple of other people we know who've done the road in the past state the ute will not be up to it.

Thanks.

John and Jen Robertson

PS.: I have purchased your guide and have enjoyed the read.

Vehicle Suitability for Gibb River Road

Hi John and Jen,

The quick answer is, yes, I do reckon you'll be right.

The western end of the Gibb River Road is in much better shape than the eastern half. My guess is that you will have no problems whatsoever.

Also, all these roads improve every year, and if your friends were here a few years ago they would have found a very different track to what you will see.

The road to Windjana Gorge and Tunnel Creek will be fine, the Gibb River Road itself will be fine, the only track that is a bit rougher is the track into Bell Gorge itself.

No, the Rodeo does not have the clearance of a Landcruiser, but it certainly isn't as low, or as vulnerable underneath, as an average city car. Many people around here drive them and take them places a lot wilder than Bell Gorge!

I would not worry about your clearance or anything.

If you want to make 100% sure, get in touch with the rangers at Bell Gorge before you leave Derby. They can let you know if there are any unusual obstacles on the track. Or even ask at the Derby visitor centre. They would also know what state the track is in.

Just to double check.

And, of course, drive carefully and keep an eye on the road.

PS.: Glad you enjoyed the guide. Where I mentioned clearance in the driving chapters, it's not because you need a huge amount of it, but because most of the time that is the ONLY aspect of your 4WD vehicle that you need.

Saying a track requires a 4WD makes people expect the wildest things, when in fact you hardly ever need the 4WD itself.