Hi Vince. The easiest, although longest is via Hexham and the Golden Highway through the Hunter Valley. No significant climbs at all. The next best in less steep climbs is the Gwydir through Grafton exiting at Glenn Innis. The worst is the Oxley through Wauchope. The first 50 kms is winding and steep. The road is also closed several days a week while they repair land slips. Hope that helps.