How long does it take to drive the Hay River track?

Four days
Essential information

Is the Hay River track open?

Booking Information. Prospective travellers, please refer to the CLC website for up-to-date information and all booking enquiries. The Hay River Track and Batton Hill Bush Camp is currently closed pending negotiations with the Traditional Owners.

Is the Warburton Track open?

WARBURTON TRACK – OPEN IT IS A BIT SHORTER USING THE WAA LINE OR THE RIG RD. Call the Mungerannie Hotel for more info 08 8675 8317.

How much fuel does a Hay River track take?

Running at 60-80km/h felt like speeding, after four days of slow driving on the Hay River Track. Our fuel consumption was interesting, with all three D-Maxs using roughly the same amount of fuel in the demanding off-road conditions: 14 to 15L/100km.

How old is Simpson Desert?

Cecil Madigan named the desert ‘the Simpson’ in 1929. Madigan made his famous Simpson Desert Crossing in 1939. In early 1960s, the French Petroleum Company made a series of exploration tracks which have now become magnets for 4WD enthusiasts.

How long is the Madigan line?

It’s about 720km from Mt Dare to Birdsville via this route. Fuel usage can be heavy depending on conditions.

Is the Simpson Desert Open 2020?

The Simpson Desert Regional Reserve and Conservation Park has only recently re-opened. Since the summer of 2008/09 the park has been closed during the summer months due to the high risk of vehicles becoming bogged or breaking down in extreme temperatures.

Are fires allowed in the Simpson Desert?

Wood fires are allowed, but you must bring your own wood. In Munga-Thirri National Park (formerly Simpson Desert National Park) – in Queensland No fires of any kind are allowed.

Who owns the Simpson Desert?

Does anyone live in the Simpson Desert?

Aboriginal people have lived in and around the desert for at least 5000 years and continue to do so today. When European explorers and scientists began to venture into the Simpson Desert in the late 19th and early 20th Centuries, it was widely thought that no one could possibly live in the harsh, waterless sand dunes.

Is the Madigan Line Open 2021?

In June 2021 and April 2022 we are running our popular 4wd tag along tour along the remote Simpson Desert Madigan Line. We will follow the route taken by Cecil Madigan in 1939 as he crossed the northern section of the Simpson Desert from west to east, using camels as transport, and from Old Andado to Birdsville.

What permits are required for the Madigan line?

You require a permit from the Central Lands Council (CLC) to travel the Madigan Line. It is easy to get and free. Go to: www.clc.org.au/articles/info/application-for-an-entry-permit. If you have any queries, Ph: (08) 8951 6211.

Is the Hay River track Open in the summer?

During the hotter summer months, the desert is closed. One of the reasons the Hay River Track is so exciting is the fact that it was only recently opened to the public, so many visitors consider it to be a new and exciting territory to explore. Travellers need to take note that permits are required to pass through the desert.

When is the best time to visit the Hay River?

One of the best times to visit the Hay River areas is right after the rains, since this brings to life the flora and fauna of the desert, allowing visitors a great view of the colourful desert blooms. The same flora can make passage along the track somewhat slow, which means visitors should allow for plenty of time to complete the journey.

Where is Jervois station on the Hay River track?

Jervois Station is approximately 300km from Alice Springs, and Poeppels Corner is about 170km from Birdsville. The track ventures through Atnetye Aboriginal Land and it takes a bit of organising to travel this track, but the effort is rewarded through the greatexperiences and scenery in this remote area of Central Australia.

What kind of light does Hay River have?

Their serrated crests were bathed in golden-red light from the slowly setting sun. Gaining the southern end of the Hay River Track very late in the afternoon, we made camp.