How long is the Anne Beadell Highway?
Australia, oceania
1.325 km
N/A
extreme
Year-round
Okay, picture this: the Anne Beadell Highway. It's an epic outback trek stretching 1,325km (823 miles) from Laverton in Western Australia all the way to Coober Pedy in South Australia. Think red dirt, endless skies, and serious solitude!
Built way back between 1953 and 1962 by Len Beadell and named after his wife, this isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking super remote, seriously sandy, and often narrow tracks. You'll be weaving between dunes for days. There aren't any towns between the two ends, so you need to be prepared!
The landscape is incredible – you'll cruise past clay pans, salt lakes, and those iconic red sand dunes. It's a photographer's dream. You will also have the chance to explore spots like the Yeo Homestead, Yamarna Station, and Djinkagara. Don't miss Anne's Corner, Volkes Hill Corner, and the Serpentine Lakes. Ilkurlka roadhouse is a welcome sight, offering fuel, showers, and even an aircraft wreck nearby!
Temperatures are extreme, hitting highs of 50°C in the summer, so aim for May to September for a slightly cooler (but still hot!) adventure. Night temperatures can drop below freezing. Expect the journey to take 5-7 days, maybe longer. A GPS, HF radio or satellite phone are essential. Also, keep an eye out for flat tires, mechanical issues, and potential flash floods. The longest stretch without fuel is around 750 km (466 miles).
This trip isn't for the faint of heart. Unless you're a seasoned desert explorer, solo travel isn't recommended. But if you're prepared and experienced, the Anne Beadell Highway offers an unforgettable Aussie outback experience.
Road Details
- Country
- Australia
- Continent
- oceania
- Length
- 1.325 km
- Difficulty
- extreme
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