We are driving from Mildura to Lakes Entrance, Victoria. 22ft van towed by Nissan Navara King Cab. Are we able to cross Mt Hotham between Omeo and the coast or is it a big strain on the tow vehicle?
Hi I have never taken a van over Hotham but I have been over many times in a big Tourist Coach and one thing I would never do is take a van over it as I twists and turns and at times is narrow, it must be a big strain on any tow vehicle and should you meet another car on the road it can be a worry as they get passed you and I am sure of one thing your brakes get a good workout. If I remember right there is a sign both sides saying not recommended for caravans.
From Harrietville to Mt Hotham is a long steep climb. The Great Alpine Road is quite good with wonderful scenery, but be prepared to pull over and let motor and transmission cool down a bit when needed. Take your time and enjoy the fantastic drive. Good overnight camping area in Swifts Creek between Omeo and Bruthen. Ozjohn.
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Retired Engineer, Ex Park Owner & Caravan Consultant. Holden 2.8 Colorado - Roma Elegance 17'6" Pop Top. Location: Mornington Peninsula Vic.
We towed a 17ft poptop behind a mitsubishi challenger in jan last year. As said steep climbs and very winding. Would I do it again?YES,travelled quietly along ,passed by quite a few people in a hurry, If you travel to the conditions it should not be a problem. Enjoy the trip and the scenery.
John
We went from Bright to lakes Entrance via Hotham and Omeo a few years back towing an 18ft Pop top.
We experienced the worst fog on the climb. All we could see were the orange posts on our left. It's a long climb and very bendy. The fog didn't clear until we got to Dinner Plains. It was a very hairy experience that I hope we never have to have again. Once we started the climb there was no going back so took our time and made it safely. The trip from D inner Plains to lakes Entrance was lovely and not a bad road.
Sadly we didn't get to see the beautiful scenery going up and would do it again if there was no fog.
Pam
-- Edited by pambaz on Wednesday 29th of January 2014 09:16:11 PM
Thank you every-one. Have decided to go the long way round. Across to Balranald, Hay, Junee, Queanbean, Cooma and down to Merimbula. We have all the time in the world so better to be safe than sorry.
Look out fishes, here we come.
Take the Brown mountain descent slowly, and you can stop halfway at Pipers Lookout if there's room in the car-park. Lots of trucks and caravans use that road, we don't like it much but its Do-able.
