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To wrap up Graham Cahill’s top 4WDing spots in WA, we’ll now cover north of Perth. Take note, because this includes two of Graham’s absolute favourite spots off the beaten track!

Whether you’re planning a day trip to the beach or a weeklong tour, in Graham’s opinion the track has got to have something at the end of it, there’s no driving up and down a hill for the sake of it. If you agree, then the following tracks are definitely worth adding to your list…

The Holland Track 

When Graham calls it a cracker and his “favourite 4WD track in Australia”, you know it’s good. Super remote and about 2-3 days long, the Holland Track is an iconic Western Australian road. The track was cut out by John Holland and served as a direct route during the gold rush.

This track is full of pioneering history, taking you through the WA goldfields region plus incredible granite outcrops (such as Wave Rock), gamma holes and beautiful Aussie bush. The Holland Track also has plenty of magnificent winter campsites along the way, and firewood to spare.

Image: https://www.offthetrax.com.au/

Rated as medium difficulty, the track runs between Broomehill and Coolgardie (the 4WD section starts at Hyden). A tip from Graham- in the summer it’s stinking hot with plenty of flies, so keep this one up your sleeve for the winter months. It can also get very muddy after rain so keep an eye on the weather.

Steep Point

Next up is Steep Point- the most westerly point on Australia’s mainland and about 900km north of Perth. Steep Point is reached via a long, corrugated coastal track, which takes you past some of WA’s most spectacular coastline including massive cliffs and rolling dunes. Steep Point is also one of the best rock fishing locations in Australia, so don’t forget your rod.

…“You haven’t been to WA if you haven’t driven on Cable Beach at sunset, had a beer and watched the sun go down over the ocean” – Graham Cahill, 4WD 24/7

There’s plenty of dune driving and some brutal corrugations on this track, so you’ll need to air down your tyres several times during the trip. It’s also worth noting that camping near Steep Point is by booking only, so you’ll need to lock in a date up to 10 months in advance. But according to Graham, it’s definitely worth it.

There’s plenty to explore along this track, so set aside at least three days to really enjoy this beautiful part of the coast. And while you’re in the area, you should make the trip across to Dirk Hartog Island…

Dirk Hartog Island 

If you’re looking to drive your 4WD to the absolute furthest west point in Australia, then you can’t miss Dirk Hartog Island. To get to this island you need to load your 4WD on a barge at Steep Point, and 15 minutes later you’ll have 80+ km of stunning coastline to explore.

Image: https://www.4wdingaustralia.com/

Take a 4WD tour across the island, or head off on your own to check out the blow holes, secluded beaches and abundance of wildlife. Only 20 vehicles are allowed at one time within the National Park, so you’re guaranteed to find your own private campsite.

Shifting sand dunes and deep sandy tracks can make 4wding around the island challenging, so make sure you’ve got recovery gear on board, and keep an eye on the tides.

Cable Beach, Broome

According to Graham, “You haven’t been to WA if you haven’t driven on Cable Beach at sunset, had a beer and watched the sun go down over the ocean”. Located in Broome, here you’ll find 22 km of flat white sand and sparkling clear water- views of the Indian Ocean don’t get much better than this.

Image: https://www.4wdingaustralia.com/

4WD access is permitted north of the rocks, and the hard sand makes for an easy drive. Just be aware of the tides and restrictions during peak turtle nesting seasons. And of course while you’re in Broome, you can’t miss Cape Leveque…

Cape Leveque

If it’s a stunning camping spot you’re after, then Cape Leveque has got you covered. Located at the tip of the Dampier Peninsula, this 4WD track takes you out to some incredible red cliffs along the beach, and when a well-seasoned traveller like Graham describes it as freakin’ gorgeous, you know it’s worth a visit.

“This is a cracker. This is my favourite 4WD track in Australia…big call, big call” – Graham Cahill

Broome to Cape Leveque is approx. 200km of unsealed, corrugated track. This destination is fairly remote but worth every bit of the 3-4 hours trip. Give yourself a few days here to take in the scenery, and spend some time snorkelling, fishing and driving along the sand.

Image: https://4wdtouring.com.au/

Gibb River Road 

One of the most famous outback Aussie tracks, the Gibb River Road stretches 660km through the Kimberly ranges. In this untouched wilderness, you’ll find everything from remote cattle stations and Aboriginal rock art to waterfalls, gorges and freshwater swimming holes.

Give yourself at least 2 weeks to see highlights, and make sure you check the track’s conditions before you go. Between April and September is the best time to visit – note either end of this dry season you’ll likely see plenty of washouts and water crossings.

The following map from the Derby Visitor Centre is a great tool for planning your trip.

Image: https://www.derbytourism.com.au/

Oomeulgurri Track 

This one is Graham’s second favourite 4WD track in the world – “400 km of low range, utterly isolated Kimberly wilderness”. The Oomeulgurri Track has it all – camping, fishing, hidden waterholes and action-packed 4wding, plus the opportunity to learn about the region’s Indigenous culture, history, and bushcraft.

Graham’s done the Oomeulgurri Track several times now with Traditional owner Ronnie Morgan, who leads the convoy. Offering an unforgettable 4WD experience, Ronnie is from a long line of Traditional Owners who have an incredible knowledge of this remote Kimberly region.

Note the Oombi track is not for the fainthearted- you’ll need a decent vehicle set-up plus plenty of 4WD touring experience under your belt. Check out this account from 4WD 24/7, and you’ll get an idea of the kind of challenges you’ll face along the way. Spots on the tour book out quickly,  so plan this one well in advance.

Image: https://www.4wd247.com/

A good word of warning from Graham – the majority of WA tracks are fairly remote, and even on the shorter ones, you’re likely not to have mobile reception if you run into trouble. Unless it’s during the holidays, keep in mind that other 4WDers on the track can be few and far between, and make sure you’re adequately prepared. Stay safe, and enjoy exploring some of the most beautiful spots Western Australia has to offer.

If you haven’t already had a read, you can check out Graham’s top 4WD tracks in South Western Australia here, and his favourite 4WD tracks around Perth here.

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