Abandoned Section Gunbarrel Highway

You'll discover one of Western Australia's most remote and challenging routes along the Abandoned Section Gunbarrel Highway, where isolation and raw outback terrain converge to test your 4WD skills. This 17.3 km stretch near Ngaanyatjarra-Giles demands respect and preparation, offering an authentic off-road experience far removed from established tracks. The route's defining feature is its river crossings, which can vary dramatically depending on seasonal conditions and recent rainfall. These water obstacles demand careful vehicle assessment and expert navigation—you'll need to evaluate water depth, current strength, and ground conditions before committing to each crossing.

The landscape shifts between rocky outcrops, sandy patches, and creek beds as you traverse this historic route. You'll experience genuine remoteness here, with minimal infrastructure and no established rest points. The relatively flat grade belies the actual difficulty; the real challenge lies in reading terrain, managing water crossings, and maintaining vehicle momentum through variable surfaces. Before attempting this trail, ensure your vehicle is in excellent mechanical condition, carry substantial water supplies, and pack recovery gear. Mobile service may be non-existent, so communication devices and self-sufficiency are essential. Navigation tools like the Newtracs app can help you track your progress through this unrated but rewarding expedition into Australia's vast interior.