The Big Trip (I come to you), May to September, most states and territories

G'day!

After too many years working and saving the Missus and I are finally going on the big trip we always wanted to do (since our last big trip in 2007/2008). We fell in love with the outback in 2007 and returned many times for shorter adventures. This time though we have 4 month to explore the interior of Australia with our trusty GQ. In broad terms we'll drive from Melbourne to Alice Springs via the Simpson Desert, then to Cape York, along the gulf, over into the Kimberly and down the Canning Stock Route and back via the Gunbarrel Hwy.

The reason for this thread is to share a bit of the trip. I plan to post some photos and stories. I hope to get tips and advice. And of course it would be great to meet YOU for a cuppa, a bear or maybe even some driving.
So if you're in the area I go to why not send me a message? It's a meet-up where I come to you. Too easy!

Cheers,
Flo-w

Melbourne -> Broken Hill -> Flinders Ranges

We'll leave 17 May from Melbourne. First destination will be the beautiful Flinders Ranges. Any suggestions?

sounds like great trip mate, unfortunately im not anywhere near where you are heading. have a great trip and post lots of pics

Sky track.. Costs a little but the track and views are stunning..

Look forward to some pics. we really live in the Lucky country, even if the Budget stinks LOL

Rawnsley Park Station near Wilpena Pound is a great place to camp in the Flinders. http://www.rawnsleypark.com.au/
As Westy said, Skytrack is great.
Brachina Gorge is great to explore.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by TPC

Rawnsley Park Station near Wilpena Pound is a great place to camp in the Flinders. http://www.rawnsleypark.com.au/
As Westy said, Skytrack is great.
Brachina Gorge is great to explore.

---

I reckon rawnsley park is a must also.
You can day treck up the face to the top from there also. I'd say it's a mild hike.

Since you drink Bear, you must be a Queenslander!

Cape York has a few not so well known places that in my book are worth a looksy, particularly if you aren't towing a camper.

You are also entering peak-hour traffic period on the Cape at the moment with every man and his dog heading up there and back. Parks & Wildlife now have a full online booking system that they want everyone to use and I'd get in asap if you haven't already.

I'm away with work a fair bit, but enjoy a Bundy bear or two and if you are passing through Cairns can point you at some not so visited destinations.

As always thanks for the replies!

I've heard of the Skytrek before. I'll check it out.
As for camping we rather stick to free bushcamping wherever we can, especially on a long trip it saves you heaps. I'll check out the hiking trails though.

I reckon I won't have much internet access till Alice so I better ask now:
What's your opinion on Walkers Crossing Track?
What's your preferred track combination for the Simmo?
And what track do you like from Mt Dare up to Alice?

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Flo-w

As always thanks for the replies!

I've heard of the Skytrek before. I'll check it out.
As for camping we rather stick to free bushcamping wherever we can, especially on a long trip it saves you heaps. I'll check out the hiking trails though.

I reckon I won't have much internet access till Alice so I better ask now:
What's your opinion on Walkers Crossing Track?
What's your preferred track combination for the Simmo?
And what track do you like from Mt Dare up to Alice?

---

Walkers Crossing Track is listed as open to 4WD with caution for ponded water, it can get slow and interesting after rain.
The Simpson really depends on how adventurous you want to get, I have crossed 3 times and gone a different way each time.
I would take Binns track to Alice.