
How long is the Gunbarrel Highway?
Australia, oceania
1,350 km
N/A
extreme
Year-round
The Gunbarrel Highway: if you're looking for the ultimate Aussie outback adventure, this is it! This legendary 1,350 km (840 mi) track carves its way from Carnegie Station in Western Australia all the way to Giles, near the Northern Territory border. It's a major part of the epic 2,800 km (1,740 mi) Outback Way.
Be prepared for anything โ washaways, seriously corrugated sections, rocks, sand, and even flood plains. The track ranges from stony to sandy, with ruts and the occasional muddy surprise. A high-clearance 4WD is essential, and this trip isn't for the faint of heart!
Built in 1958, it's seen better days, with some sections untouched since its original construction. Allow at least 4 days to complete it, and definitely don't make this your first desert expedition.
You'll be venturing into seriously remote territory, so you need to be totally self-sufficient with water, food, and fuel. The longest stretch between fuel stops is a hefty 489 kilometers (Warburton to Carnegie Station), so plan accordingly. Services are scarce, and conditions can change rapidly. Avoid the scorching summer months! Do your research, stock up, and get the latest track info before you go.
Road Details
- Country
- Australia
- Continent
- oceania
- Length
- 1,350 km
- Difficulty
- extreme
Related Roads in oceania
extremeWhere does Waterfall Way start and finish?
๐ฆ๐บ Australia
Waterfall Way in Northern NSW is an absolute stunner of a drive! Think rainforests, river valleys, and, of course, waterfalls galore! You'll cruise right through the incredible New England and Dorrigo National Parks. This 170km (106mi) stretch of road kicks off from the New England Highway near Armidale and winds its way to the Pacific Highway close to Urunga (just a quick 20-minute jaunt south of Coffs Harbour). The road's fully sealed, but be warned: it can get pretty narrow and twisty, especially with a steep, winding 14km section west of Thora. Some spots are carved right into the mountainside, while others are built up with stonework โ so keep your eyes peeled! Overtaking can be tricky, especially on the Dorrigo Range. And watch out for wildlife! While undeniably gorgeous, this route has seen its fair share of accidents in the past. Take it slow, stay focused, and you'll be golden. Plan for about 2.5 to 3 hours of driving time, but honestly, you'll want to stop and soak it all in. Waterfall Way is a detour that's more than worth it, with everything from pristine coastal beaches to lush rainforest and wide-open plains. Keep an eye out for heavy trucks and slow-moving caravans. And if you're driving at night near Ebor, you might even spot a spotted-tail quoll โ if you don't hit a kangaroo first! Don't forget your insect repellent, and be aware that mobile reception can be spotty along the way. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
moderateSummit Road is a narrow scenic drive in New Zealand
๐ณ๐ฟ New Zealand
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! Summit Road in Canterbury, New Zealand is calling your name! This isn't just any drive; it's a totally paved 28.2km (17.52 mile) rollercoaster through the Port Hills (Te Poho-o-Tamatea), south of Christchurch, that'll give you views for days! Built way back in the 30โs, this road snakes along the edges of ancient volcanoes on the Banks Peninsula, climbing to a dizzying 490m (1,607ft). Heads up: itโs narrow and twisty, so keep your eyes peeled for lumbering trucks and wandering campervans. Be prepared for a thrilling ride with hairpin turns and steep climbs between 300 and 500 meters above sea level. The road was shut down for a bit after those pesky earthquakes in 2010 and 2011 (rockfall risk!), but good news, some sections are open again! Trust me, the panoramic views of Christchurch and the surrounding landscapes are SO worth the adrenaline rush. Get ready for an unforgettable journey!
moderateClarks Road
๐ Tasmania
Okay, picture this: Tasmania, Australia, southeast region. You're in the Mount Dromedary Forest Reserve, and you stumble upon Clarks Road. It's a dead end, stretching for just under 4 kilometers, but trust me, it feels longer. The road leads to a meditation center, so you know it's supposed to be peaceful. But getting there? Not so much. The edges are soft and crumbly, and let's just say tractors are on speed dial to rescue cars that have taken a tumble. We're talking 15-foot drops, people! Oh, and did I mention it's basically a one-lane road? Hope you're good at reversing, because you'll need those skills. As for the road surface, imagine driving across a rock quarry. Yep, that's about right. Flat tires are practically a souvenir here. Apparently, up to 50 cars brave this "road" daily. Seriously, itโs a bad accident waiting to happen. But hey, if you're looking for an adventure with a side of natural beauty, this could be your spot!
hardWhere is Wakehurst Parkway?
๐ฆ๐บ Australia
Okay, adventure junkies, let's talk Wakehurst Parkway! Just a stone's throw โ about 26 clicks โ from the Sydney city center, this 14.5 km (9-mile) stretch of road runs from Seaforth to North Narrabeen, snaking its way through the northern beaches. Now, Wakehurst isn't just any old scenic route. It has a reputation, and not just for its pretty views! This road is infamous for its high number of accidents and a seriously spooky vibe, especially after dark. Legend has it that Wakehurst Parkway has been used as a dumping ground for the bodies of Sydney murder victims. One of the most haunted parts? Where Wakehurst Parkway intersects with Warringah Road. Many attribute accidents here to the ghost of a young girl named "Kelly" who hitches rides in unsuspecting motorists' cars after midnight. If you donโt tell her to leave, sheโll supposedly seize control of your car and send you careening off the road. Some say she appears in the backseat or on the side of the road, then vanishes without a trace. So, if you're cruising Wakehurst Parkway late at night, maybe keep an eye on your rearview mirror... just in case!