Great Northern Highway

Stretching from Western Australia into the Northern Territory, the Great Northern Highway is an epic outback route that cuts through the heart of Australia's Red Centre. This legendary road offers a raw, immersive journey through vast desert landscapes, ancient mountain ranges, and remote communities, making it a bucket-list drive for adventurous travellers seeking the true spirit of the Australian outback.

Highlights & What to See

• Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk National Park): A series of 13 sandstone gorges carved by the Katherine River – take a cruise or kayak to appreciate the sheer cliffs and abundant wildlife, including freshwater crocodiles.
• Mataranka Hot Springs: Soak in the crystal-clear, 34°C thermal pools surrounded by tropical palm forest – a perfect antidote to long days on the road.
• Daly Waters Pub: An iconic outback pub with a quirky, eclectic interior plastered with memorabilia – stop for a cold beer and a classic pub meal.
• Devils Marbles (Karlu Karlu): A field of giant, rounded granite boulders scattered across a wide valley – particularly magical at sunrise or sunset when the colours shift.
• Tennant Creek: A historic gold-mining town where you can try your luck at a gold-panning experience or explore the Nyinkka Nyunyu Art and Culture Centre.
• Alice Springs Desert Park: An immersive wildlife and cultural experience that showcases the desert's flora, fauna, and Indigenous heritage – don't miss the nocturnal house and free-flying bird show.

Suggested Time to Spend

Driving the full length of the Great Northern Highway from Western Australia to the Northern Territory (or vice versa) requires at least 5 to 7 days to cover the roughly 1,200 kilometres between Katherine and Alice Springs without rushing. Break the journey into manageable 3–4 hour driving stints, with overnight stops at Katherine, Daly Waters, Tennant Creek, and Alice Springs. Add an extra day or two to explore side trips like Litchfield National Park, the Bungle Bungles (Purnululu National Park), or the West MacDonnell Ranges. Fuel stops are few and far between, so plan ahead and carry extra water and supplies.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Katherine & Nitmiluk National Park: Gateway to the stunning Katherine Gorge – allow a full day for a boat cruise or canoeing adventure.
• Litchfield National Park: Famous for its cascading waterfalls, swimming holes, and termite mounds – a perfect 2–3 day detour from the highway.
• Purnululu National Park (Bungle Bungles): The iconic beehive-shaped domes of the Bungle Bungle Range – accessible via a rough 4WD track, best visited in the dry season (May–October).
• West MacDonnell Ranges: A series of dramatic gorges, waterholes, and hiking trails west of Alice Springs – spend a day exploring Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm, and Ormiston Gorge.
• Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park: While a significant drive south from Alice Springs, the majestic red rock of Uluru and the domes of Kata Tjuta are a must-see for any Red Centre itinerary.

Please check official sources for current details.