Australia’s Summers are associated with relentless heat, dryness, and scorching sunshine. But, it doesn’t have to be boring. Although many people shelter in their homes to catch some cool air-conditioned frostiness, this can be a great time for adventure. For some hardy fools, they think it’s an excellent time to brave the Hay River Track. What’s more? It’s an opportunity to meet other travellers as you traverse the remote sandy desert. All wrong!
Where is the Hay River Track
The Hay River Track is a remote drive into the amazingly beautiful parts of Australia. The track is popular among tourists and locals alike and follows the course of an extinct river. If touring in winter, your must still prepare your items for the remote drive.
The Hay River Track links the northern and southern sections of the Simpson Desert, inviting adventurers to traverse the dunes along the Hay River.
The track is very sandy. It’s 928km long linking the northern and southern sections of the Simpson Desert. It runs from Birdsville (QLD) to Gemtree (NT). The journey is highly remote. Suitable for low range and high ground clearance. It was only recently opened to the public in 2000.
The trip is only suitable for experienced drivers and should not be undertaken alone. Take emergency supplies and extra parts; make sure you know your route.
Can You Brave the Hay River Track in Summer?
Visitors get to see and experience the beautiful track through the eyes of people who know it best. There’s a tour offered to all visitors of Batton Hill, and you don’t want to miss this. This may not be enough, though! A 10-day tour to complete the track is perfect for a school winter break. And will give you enough time to visit all the attraction sites along the track.
Bush camping is enough reason to brace the Hay River Track. It’s fun in winter when you have the appropriate gear and essentials. You need a strong tent, warm sleeping bag, and a stove ideal for colder seasons. The designated camping areas are Batton Hill camp and Gemtree.
Batton Hill Camp is a serviced campsite on the Hay River 350 km east of Alice Springs. Set among a beautiful stand of gum trees it has water, hot showers, toilets, 2 bough sheds and a bush kitchen. Located on the Hay River Track Batton Hill is becoming a popular stop for people driving to or from the Simpson Desert. The track south of Batton Hill along the Hay River to Poeppel Corner track was pioneered by Jol Fleming in 2000. This ‘flash’ bush camp is operated by Traditional Owners, the family of Lindsay Bookie. You need a permit from Central Land Council to access this untouched wilderness in western NT.
Simply put, regarding Summer …. NO!!! Summer can be deadly on the Hay River Track – always go in winter, or late Autumn, or at the latest, early Spring.
The bottom line
The Hay River Track attracts many visitors, but it’s best to travel in groups. Remember, there are no provisions or fuel, and you should pack all the essentials for the trip. This way, you’ll have a safe yet fun trip on the road. But always do it in winter – eg the link above will take you there in July 2022. Although winter is pretty cold, you need to stay hydrated, so carry enough water for the journey.