How long is the Outback Highway?
Australia, oceania
2,800 km
N/A
hard
Year-round
The Outback Way: Calling all adventurers! This epic 2,800 km journey, also known as Australia's longest shortcut, stretches from Laverton in Western Australia all the way to Winton, Queensland, cutting right through the heart of the country.
Get ready to rumble because around 1750 km is unsealed – a proper gravel track that demands a 4WD. This isn't a drive; it's an off-road odyssey through Queensland, the Northern Territory, and Western Australia, showing off the raw beauty of the Aussie outback.
Heads up: this trip is remote! We're talking limited everything – communications, repair shops, supplies. So, preparation is key! You'll find food, fuel, and a place to crash every 300 km or so, tops.
Factor in at least 3-4 days of solid driving (forget night driving!) to conquer the Outback Way. But honestly, stretch it to 6-7 days. You'll want to soak in the iconic views, like Uluru (Ayers Rock), Kata Tjuta (the Olgas), the Petermann Ranges, and the MacDonnell Ranges. The Outback Way is actually made up of seven interconnecting roads and highways, including the Kennedy Development Road.
Timing is everything: the sweet spot is March to November. Steer clear of November to March when the heat can be brutal, or the rains can turn the roads into a muddy mess. Get ready to experience a kaleidoscope of climates and landscapes as you journey from the tropical vibes near Cairns to the desert heart of Alice Springs and beyond to the Western Australian outback.
Road Details
- Country
- Australia
- Continent
- oceania
- Length
- 2,800 km
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in oceania
extremeHow long is McKillops Road?
🇦🇺 Australia
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hardWhy was the CREB Track built?
🇦🇺 Australia
Looking for an epic 4WD adventure in Queensland? The CREB Track is calling your name! This 71km beast winds from Daintree to Wujal Wujal right through the heart of the Daintree Rainforest. Originally built for powerline access, the CREB Track is no joke. Think seriously steep climbs, heart-pounding descents, and multiple river crossings. We're talking the Daintree River, Bloomfield River, Donovan’s Creek, and Roaring Meg Creek, just to name a few. Water levels can get seriously high, especially during the wet season, so be prepared for some serious navigation. This isn't a Sunday drive – you'll need a well-equipped 4WD with high clearance, low range, and traction aids. And definitely bring your recovery gear and winch, especially if it's been raining. Speaking of rain, avoid this track after a downpour – the red clay turns into a slippery nightmare! You'll want to keep your speed between 15 and 20 kmh. The track runs through the Burungu Aboriginal community so be mindful when travelling. The CREB Track is typically open May-November, but closures can happen without warning due to weather. Always check conditions before you go! Cell service is spotty, and it's a remote area, so be completely self-sufficient. But if you're up for the challenge, you'll be rewarded with incredible scenery and a true off-road experience!
moderateAdventure along the wild Donohue Highway
🇦🇺 Australia
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through the rugged northern reaches of the Simpson Desert foothills in Queensland, Australia. You're on the Donohue Highway, a seriously stunning stretch of road named after a local legend, Cliff Donohue. This isn't your average Sunday drive, though. We're talking 249 km (155 miles) of east-west adventure, connecting the Diamantina Developmental Road (Route 83) near Boulia to the Queensland/Northern Territory border where it meets State Route 12. Now, fair warning: this is Outback Australia at its finest, meaning mostly unpaved! Expect bone-jarring corrugations, axle-testing potholes, and clouds of bulldust that'll coat your vehicle (and everything else) in a fine layer of red. They only grade it occasionally. Sections are being paved, but don't count on it being smooth sailing. Rain? Forget it! The road becomes totally impassable. High-clearance vehicles and 4WDs are practically mandatory. But hey, that's part of the fun, right? Get ready for some epic scenery!
extremeGunbarrel Highway is one of Australia’s best 4WD tracks
🇦🇺 Australia
Get ready for an epic Aussie adventure on the legendary Gunbarrel Highway! This isn't just a road trip; it's a true outback odyssey spanning 1,350 km (840 mi) from Carnegie Station in Western Australia to Giles, near the Northern Territory border. Think of it as a chunk of the even bigger 2,800 km (1,740 mi) Outback Highway. But hold on tight! This track throws everything at you: washaways, bone-jarring corrugations, rocks, sand, and even flood plains. We're talking seriously rugged terrain that demands a tough 4x4 and some serious driving skills. They built this thing back in '58, and some parts haven't seen a grader since! So, if you're new to desert driving, maybe start with something a little less intense. Give yourself at least four days to soak it all in. This isn't just a drive; it's a journey through history. You'll be completely off-grid, so pack all the water, food, and fuel you'll need. The longest stretch between fuel stops is a hefty 489 kilometers (Warburton to Carnegie Station), so plan accordingly. Keep an eye on the weather and road conditions. Avoid it during the scorching summer months. Supplies and services are few and far between.