As one of the most remote, hardcore tracks in the world, riding the Canning Stock route in Australia is no mean feat. Indeed, for many it is considered among the few remaining, real adventure roads. This epic route stretches 1850 km between Wiluna in the south and Billiluna in the north, cutting through stark deserts and the barren outback. There are no major services or towns along the sand packed route and little chance of emergency aid. Passing through the Gibson desert, as well as the Little and Great Sandy deserts, this former drover’s trail demands respect and serious planning. Attempting it solo is not advised and anyone considering the route should have a good mechanical knowledge and survival skills.
Planning your ride on the Canning Stock Route The route can be started from the north or the south depending on preference, though many riders agree that north to south is the better option, as the sun isn’t your eyes so much. The route doesn’t need to be completed in one go, as there are exit points dotted along it, listed below;
Between wells 22 and 23, the Talawana Track can be accessed going east or west. Near Well 33 the Kidman Track can be taken heading west. At wells nine and five on the southern end of the route, private station tracks, Glenayle and Granite peak stations respectively, can be taken for a fee.
There are around 50 wells along the route, though not all of them are currently operational. Well 1 is found at the southern end, climbing up to well 51 on the northern end. It’s well worth checking current information regarding which wells can be relied on for safe water, from others who have completed the route recently.
Road surface and traffic The road surface is mostly sand, though it depends on recent weather as to how dry it will be. It’s not unheard of for boggy sections and deep puddles if you hit the rainy season. The route is used by increasing numbers of 4×4 drivers looking for adventure and as such the track is deeply furrowed in some parts. Riding the ridge is difficult as large rocks and vegetation can appear from nowhere. Riding in the tracks leads to an onslaught of whipping and slapping branches from the vegetation that grows on the side of the track. It’s a hard ride whichever way you go!
The route is far more popular than it used to be. Thirty years ago riders would tackle the track and not see a soul the entire way. Nowadays you’re likely to come across 4×4 drivers and other motorcyclists. There won’t be huge numbers, however during school holidays the track sees a lot more use.
Fuel It’s likely you’ll need a long range tank or an additional jerrycan or two to tackle this beast. With stretches without fuel as long as 665km, it’s easy to see why. Fuel can be obtained midway through the route at the Kunawarritji Roadhouse and at the start at the Billiluna Community Store. Also, with prior planning, fuel drops can be arranged in advance around well 23, just speak to the Capricorn roadhouse.
Accommodation Typically a trip along the Canning Stock Route will take anywhere between two to three weeks. Camping gear is essential as you’ll be spending many nights beneath the stars. Most people camp at the wells for easy access to water, though there are many fantastic places to pull over and set up camp. There are roadhouses at Billiluna and Kunawarritji and campsites offering basic facilities at Durba and Pierre springs.
Food Pack plenty of nutritious food and as much water as you can. Water can be refilled at some of the wells, while food supplies can be boosted in the communities.
Weather considerations The ideal time to travel the route is between May and August. It’s best to avoid traveling over summer months (December – February) due to extreme heat. The shoulder seasons are often very wet and should also be avoided. Despite hot days, temperatures can plummet in the night so be sure to pack warm sleeping gear.
Paperwork for the Canning Stock Route Anyone tackling the entire route is required to purchase two permits. The first covers the majority of the route and encompasses the Birriliburu, Ngurrara and Tjurabalan sections. The second permit covers the Martu section through the middle of the route. Both permits can be applied for and bought online and cost around $150.
Sights There are a number of sights to take in along the route, from waterfalls and springs to stunning rock formations and mountains. It’s worth bringing an extra memory card for your camera, in order to capture the stark natural beauty of the area.
