Mount Barrow is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 1.413m located just east of
Launceston in north east Tasmania. The out and back drive up Mount Barrow Road is stunning but it is gravel and the final section is narrow and made up of switchbacks. The road ends at a
carpark at the Mount Barrow Stone hut so if you want to reach the true summit you'll need to hike up the final section from there. There are some metal steps initially but then its
rock hopping and will take about 30 minutes.
The road up the mountain is called Mount Barrow Road C404 and is a 14km long, unsealed spur route. It is periodically closed in winter due to snow, with the snow line located at around 1.100 metres. The steepest grade is 20%, with an overall average above 10%. Avoid driving in this area if unsealed mountain roads aren't your strong point. And definately not for those scared of heights.
The route up the mountain is popular with hikers, cyclists and 4-wheel drive enthusiasts and there are various points where you can enjoy lookouts and forest walks. Red directional arrows lead you up the mountain. Stop at lookouts and cultural sites.
An AWD vehicle is recommended for safety as the road is gravel and has a few odd potholes/washaways and stoney outcrops however people do drive conventional vehicles all the way when conditions are favourable. Warning: do not attempt in winter without a 4WD and snow chains.