Old Ghan Track

River crossings and remote outback terrain await you on the Old Ghan Track near Hugh, where this medium-difficulty trail offers an authentic taste of Northern Territory 4WD adventure. Though brief at just 0.4 km, don't let the length fool you—this historic route delivers concentrated driving challenges that test your vehicle handling and water-fording skills in one of Australia's most isolated regions.

You'll navigate through authentic red-earth landscape characteristic of central Australia, with the track's defining feature being its river crossings that demand careful line selection and steady vehicle control. The terrain is manageable for intermediate drivers with decent ground clearance, and the flat grade means you won't face steep climbs, allowing you to focus on reading water depths and maintaining momentum through wet sections. The sparse traffic on this route means you're experiencing the outback much as early travellers did along the historic Ghan route.

Before attempting this trail, ensure your vehicle is properly equipped for water crossings—check your air intake height, secure loose components, and carry recovery gear. The remote location near Hugh means limited services nearby, so plan accordingly with fuel, water, and supplies. The Newtracs app will help you locate this gem and understand current conditions before you head out into this quintessential outback experience.