Winter road trips in WA's Golden Outback

By Natalie Pugh

There’s something magical about exploring the Golden Outback region in the winter months. You’ll be greeted by crisp, clear mornings, blue skies, and vast outback plains bursting into colour as early wildflowers pop up around rugged landscapes.

Whether you’re cruising along sealed roads in a two- wheel drive or you’re an off- roader keen to explore some four-wheel drive tracks, there are three outback road trips that will lead to some uniquely Western Australian outback adventures.

Along these roads less travelled, you’ll connect with the ancient landscapes of Mount Augustus and the Kennedy Ranges in the Gascoyne Murchison region, mysterious deserted ghost towns in the Goldfields, and pristine white beaches in Esperance.

Ocean to Outback

Route: Perth to Esperance and Kalgoorlie Loop
Distance: Approximately 2100km
Duration: 7-day loop
Vehicle: Two-wheel drive accessible

This epic road trip takes you through the many shades of the Golden Outback’s ever-changing landscapes, coasting past wheat-filled paddocks, granite outcrops, and red dirt, to dazzling turquoise waters.

The first leg of your trip takes you from Perth to Hyden, where rural country towns dish up old-school bakeries and unexpected sights, like Corrigin’s Dog Cemetery.

Consider taking a detour to one of the Wheatbelt’s quirkiest sights, the Tin Horse Highway, where farmers have crafted an army of hilarious tin horse sculptures. Your next stop is Wave Rock, a fascinating granite formation resembling a giant cresting wave. From there, visit Mulka’s Cave to see more than 450 Aboriginal rock paintings.

As you push south, the landscape shifts again and Esperance delivers a shock of white sand and bright turquoise water. Arguably one of the region’s best scenic drives, the Great Ocean Drive showcases some of Australia’s most spectacular beaches, like Twilight Cove and Blue Haven Beach.

Just a short drive from town is Cape Le Grand National Park, where you can see those famous kangaroos lounging on the beach at Lucky Bay - arrive at dawn for the best chance of spotting them. If the weather is on your side, tackle the steep hike up Frenchman’s Peak.

The views more than make up for the challenging climb, plus you can reward yourself afterwards with a freshly baked cinnamon bun from the famous Bread Local in town.

Leaving the ocean breeze behind, the route heads inland to Kalgoorlie (390km, 4.5hr drive), WA’s gold mining hub. Tour the world’s largest open-cut mine at the Super Pit, dig a little deeper into gold rush history at the Museum of the Goldfields, and explore historic buildings along Hannan Street, where grand old pubs line the road. From there, a day trip to Lake Ballard via Menzies (342km return) offers an otherworldly experience, with Antony Gormley’s eerie steel sculptures standing out against the vast salt flats.

After Lake Ballard, it’s back to Perth via the Golden Pipeline Heritage Trail, winding through historic towns such as Southern Cross, Westonia, and Merredin. After good winter rains, you’ll see the outback showered in colour thanks to one of the greatest wildflower shows on earth.

Where to stay: Hotels, motels, national park campgrounds, farm stays, and caravan parks.
When to go: Winter and early spring for mild temperatures and wildflowers in bloom.
Things to note: Ensure you carry sufficient fuel, food, and water, as the distances between towns can be vast, and services may be limited in remote areas.

Road to the Rock

Route: Perth to Mount Augustus
Distance: Approximately 2400km
Duration: 9 days
Vehicle: Four-wheel drive

This nine-day itinerary winds through the Gascoyne Murchison region, leading to the spectacular Mount Augustus, which is often compared to Uluru. While technically not the same type of ‘rock,’ it is larger and even older than Uluru.

Leaving Perth, head north to Dalwallinu for your first taste of the Wheatbelt and a gentle introduction to outback life. Hold off refuelling both your tank and appetite until Paynes Find, where you’ll find a family-run outback roadhouse welcoming travellers with warm meals.

Stay the night at Mount Magnet, a historic gold mining town where travellers can explore old mine sites and ancient rock formations like The Granites. From there, it’s a short drive to Cue (85km), a well-preserved gold rush town with grand heritage buildings.

Your next stop is the abandoned ghost town of Big Bell. Established in 1935 for mine workers, the town’s remains are a vivid reminder of the days when it was buzzing with activity.

Wander around what’s left of the old cottages, a crumbling church, and what once must have been a grand hotel.

A side trip to monolithic Walga Rock and its cave reveals one of WA’s largest Aboriginal rock art collections. If you’re feeling adventurous, it’s a 20-minute walk to the top of the rock, which will reward you with wonderful views across the vast Gascoyne Murchison region.

By the time you reach Meekatharra, it’s your last chance to stock up on fuel and supplies before heading off the bitumen for roughly five hours.

As you approach Mount Augustus, the landscape changes dramatically, with the stark red earth giving way to the rock’s massive silhouette. From the base, set out on one of the many walking trails, from short scenic walks to the challenging 6-hour return Summit Trail (Grade 4 hike).

Nearby Cattle Pool offers a refreshing swim, while Emu Hill Lookout is a great spot for sunset views. Hikers wanting to explore more on foot will find many paths and tracks around Gascoyne Junction and the Kennedy Ranges.

The return leg would not be complete without a stay at Wooleen Station. This working pastoral station offers a unique insight into sustainable farming practices. There are catered accommodation options, guided sunset tours, and stunning open landscapes.

If travelling between July and September, take a detour via Coalseam National Park to see blankets of yellow and pink everlastings before heading back to Perth.

Where to stay: Station stays, caravan parks, motels, country pubs, and bush camping.
When to go: April - September
Things to note: This track is best suited to four-wheel drive vehicles. Fuel stops are limited so plan accordingly. Mobile phone coverage is sparse in some areas. Be mindful of weather conditions—winter is the best time to travel as summer temperatures can be extreme.

Wool Wagon Pathway

Route: Geraldton to Exmouth
Distance: Approximately 1200km
Duration: 3 days
Vehicle: Two-wheel drive accessible (some unsealed sections)

Offering both a scenic and historically rich alternative for those travelling between Geraldton and Exmouth, this three-day route takes you through the heart of WA’s sheep and wool country, passing charming rural towns before reaching the warmth of the stunning Ningaloo Coast.

Starting in Geraldton, stock up on supplies at the locally run Rigters IGA and get your caffeine fix from one of the many cafes along Marine Terrace. Once on the road, the salty sea air soon gives way to the red dust of Mullewa as you enter wildflower country. If travelling between July and September, the roadside is often alive with blooms, including the rare and iconic wreath flower, which can sometimes be found near Pindar.

From here, the landscape transforms into vast, station country, with snaking red dirt roads leading to Murchison Settlement and Wooleen Station. If you’re looking for total isolation, find a hidden nook near Errabiddy Bluff, a remote (free) bush camp.

Continuing north, stop at Bilung Pool, one of only a few permanent water holes on the seasonal Wooramel River and a perfect spot for bird watching.

Before arriving at Gascoyne Junction, take time to explore the Gascoyne Junction Museum, a treasure trove of relics from the region’s pastoral history, before hitting the showstopper: Mount Augustus.

Drive the 49-kilometre loop and be treated to secret gorges, rocky creeks, and Aboriginal rock engravings. Experience views of Mount Augustus from the comfort of your own campsite at Mount Augustus Tourist Park or stay nearby in town at the Junction Pub & Tourist Park.

The next day, jump in the car and set off on a 45-minute trip, where you’ll turn left to the Kennedy Range National Park. The sheer size and grandeur of the towering sandstone cliffs will leave you feeling humbled by your surroundings. Fully immerse yourself in the landscape by camping beneath the ancient rock walls at Temple Gorge and gaze up in wonder as the night sky comes alive.

The final stretch to Exmouth offers glimpses of the rugged outback colliding with the turquoise waters of the Coral Coast. In Exmouth, visitors can snorkel at Ningaloo Reef and, from March to August, swim with the gentle giants of the sea - whale sharks.

Where to stay: Station stays, motels, bush camping areas, caravan parks.
When to go: April - September
Things to note: Sections of the road may be unsealed or not well maintained. Always check road conditions before setting off, especially during the winter months when rain can affect some of the roads.