Best driving roads near Coffs Harbour, NSW
Coffs Harbour sits at the base of Waterfall Way - one of the east coast's best-scored driving roads - and opens up to the rest of the Mid North Coast hinterland.
- 01
Short Cut Road
NSWTertiary2 km76.1 km away1 grey spot8.4RQS - 02
Back Creek Road
NSWUnclassified3 km130.2 km away8.2RQS - 03
Eukey Road
QLDTertiary26 km142.1 km away3 grey spots8.0RQS - 04
Palmers Road
NSWResidential1 km127.1 km away8.0RQS - 05
Duncans Road
NSWUnclassified1 km22 km away7.9RQS - 06
Hillside Lane
NSWResidential1 km116.5 km away7.9RQS - 07
Hills Road
NSWResidential1 km107.2 km away7.9RQS - 08
Shearer Drive
NSWResidential1 km50.3 km away7.9RQS - 09
Clarkes Road
NSWResidential1 km73.8 km away7.8RQS
Waterfall Way (the Dorrigo escarpment) is the signature climb, starting at Bellingen and rising 30 km to Dorrigo. The Orara Way north links Coffs to Grafton with quieter country driving. South, the Bowraville-Nambucca loop extends the network.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best driving roads near Coffs Harbour?+
Contour's top three scored roads near Coffs Harbour are Short Cut Road (NSW, RQS 8.4/10, 76.1 km away); Back Creek Road (NSW, RQS 8.2/10, 130.2 km away); Eukey Road (QLD, RQS 8.0/10, 142.1 km away). All are within a two-hour touring drive of the city.
How far should I drive from Coffs Harbour to find a great road?+
The nearest excellent-rated road (RQS 8+) is Short Cut Road, about 76.1 km from Coffs Harbour. Plenty of good options sit closer if you don't want the full drive.
Are there good motorcycle roads near Coffs Harbour?+
Yes. Short Cut Road scores 8.4/10 for motorcycles and sits 76.1 km from Coffs Harbour. Several other strong rides sit within the same radius.
Are there any dangerous sections on roads near Coffs Harbour?+
Contour has identified grey spots on 2 roads within range of Coffs Harbour - sections where the posted speed limit does not match the road geometry. Short Cut Road has 1. Take extra care in wet conditions.
When is the best time to drive near Coffs Harbour?+
Summer wet-season rain makes Waterfall Way's lower hairpins slick; winter is clear and grippy.
Scores are based on road geometry, surface quality, traffic density, and crash history. Always drive to conditions and follow local road rules.