Mt Dare to Alice Springs (420kms)

Mt Dare Hotel and Roadhouse lies at a remote crossroads in South Australia. Heading north, the Old Andado Track leads to Alice Springs, skirting the Simpson Desert’s red dunes and the floodplains of the Finke River. Along the way, stop at Molly Clark’s Old Andado Homestead, a remarkable piece of pioneering history. Just 240km further, Alice Springs surprises with rich arts, culture, wildlife, and access to breathtaking landscapes. From there explore the MacDonnell Ranges, Palm Valley, Rainbow Valley, and Chambers Pillar—unforgettable outback day trips in every direction.

Alice Springs to Plenty Highway - via East MacDonnell Ranges (290kms)

The East MacDonnell Ranges, 150 km east of Alice Springs, showcase Central Australia’s stunning outback landscapes, gorges, waterholes, bushwalks, Aboriginal rock art, and pioneering history. Take Ross Highway from Alice Springs to Emily Gap and Jessie Gap, sacred sites on the Caterpillar Dreaming trail. The Binns Track then heads off-road through N’Dhala Gorge, home to thousands of ancient petroglyphs, then to Trephina Gorge with scenic hikes and the refreshing John Hayes Rockhole. Further east, Ruby Gap Nature Park offers remote bush camping, and secluded swimming in Glen Annie Gorge. Then head to the ghost town of Arltunga and stay at the Arltunga Bush Pub & Eco Retreat. The track then leads north, through the rugged Harts and Fergusson Ranges, famous for gem fossicking.

Plenty Highway to Tennant Creek (690kms)

Iytwelepenty/Davenport Ranges National Park lies where arid Central Australia meets the southern tropical north, offering surprising landscapes and abundant wildlife. Its waterholes provide a haven for birds, fish, and visitors seeking a refreshing stop. Before reaching Tennant Creek, take a short detour to Karlu Karlu/Devils Marbles, giant granite boulders that appear precariously balanced—perfect for sunrise or sunset photos. Tennant Creek is rich in history and culture. Learn about Australia’s last great gold rush on an underground gold mine tour at the Battery Hill Gold Mining and Heritage Centre and discover the pioneering story of the Overland Telegraph Line, at the wonderfully restored Telegraph Station.

Tennant Creek to Timber Creek (1030kms)

The track from Tennant Creek to Timber Creek is through the remote heart of the Northern Territory. This unsealed route takes you through rugged landscapes and fascinating history. Stop at Bullita Homestead, a perfect campsite, and explore its historic houses and original timber stockyards, remnants of the region’s pioneering past. Along the way, admire striking rock formations at Limestone Creek, showcasing the area’s natural beauty. Your journey ends at Timber Creek, where the Police Station Precinct offers a glimpse into early life in the NT.