Oodnadatta Track

Stretching 620 kilometres from Marla in South Australia to Darwin in the Northern Territory, the Oodnadatta Track is an epic outback adventure that follows the route of the old Ghan railway. This unsealed road crosses some of Australia’s most remote and starkly beautiful landscapes, passing ancient mound springs, ghost towns, and the vast expanse of the Simpson Desert. Driving the track is a rite of passage for self-drive enthusiasts, offering a genuine taste of the red centre’s history and raw nature.

Highlights & What to See

• Mound Springs – These fragile, water-fed mounds are unique desert oases; stop at the Freeling Springs or Blanche Cup for a glimpse of endemic flora and birdlife.
• Algebuckina Bridge – Australia’s longest single-span railway bridge, a 1920s engineering marvel straddling the Neales River floodplain.
• William Creek – A tiny pub town with a population of around 10, famed for its outback hospitality and as a base for scenic flights over Lake Eyre.
• Oodnadatta – The track’s namesake settlement, home to the iconic Pink Roadhouse and a museum showcasing the region’s pioneering past.
• Lake Eyre – When conditions allow, detour to see Australia’s largest salt lake, a surreal expanse that occasionally transforms into a pink-hued bird haven.
• Old Ghan Railway Ruins – Scattered along the route, these remnants of the early 20th-century rail line tell the story of the Afghan cameleers and the harsh environment they conquered.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow at least 3 to 4 days to drive the full track, giving you time to soak in the landscapes and make spontaneous stops. Most travellers begin from Marla or Coober Pedy in the south, heading north to Alice Springs or Darwin. Pace yourself – the road is rough in parts, and you’ll want to break the journey with overnights at William Creek, Oodnadatta, or the remote Dalhousie Springs. A high-clearance 4WD is essential, especially after rain.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Coober Pedy – The opal-mining underground town is a logical southern starting point, with its quirky dugout homes and moon-like landscapes.
• Alice Springs – The red centre’s hub, offering cultural sites like the Alice Springs Desert Park and the historic Telegraph Station.
• Simpson Desert Conservation Park – For serious off-roaders, a side trip into the world’s largest sand dune desert is an unforgettable challenge.
• West MacDonnell Ranges – West of Alice, these ancient ranges boast gorges, waterholes, and hiking trails like the Larapinta Trail.
• Kata Tjuta & Uluru – A long but rewarding detour south to the iconic monoliths and domes, best explored after the track.

Please check official sources for current details.