The Overlander’s Way, stretching from Townsville to Mount Isa, is one of Queensland’s iconic road trip routes. Echoing the footsteps of early pioneers, this approximately 1,200-kilometre journey takes travellers through rugged landscapes, rich mining heritage, and towns brimming with stories of Australia’s outback spirit.
Winter is the perfect time to travel the Overlander’s Way, with cooler temps making it ideal for exploring Queensland’s outback without the intense heat, plus clear sunny skies and crisp mornings add a whole new charm to the journey. As you set your compass west, let’s uncover the wonders awaiting on the Overlander’s Way.
Start your journey in the vibrant coastal city of Townsville. With its picturesque Strand promenade, the city boasts stunning views of Magnetic Island. Visit the Black Barra Café & Bar for a unique food experience with delicious food and a relaxed atmosphere overlooking their stunning wetland. For the energetic, take a walk up Castle Hill for some incredible views – you can walk up the road, or for those with a sense of adventure and plenty of energy, why not try the Goat Track?
A mere hour and a half from Townsville, Charters Towers is a town steeped in gold rush history. Wander through the historic streets, visit the Zara Clark Museum, and for a unique experience, embark on the Ghosts of Gold Heritage Trail by night. A Charters Towers highlight is Ghosts After Dark, a film and presentation which sees Towers Hill come to life!
Welcome to Australia’s dinosaur country. Hughenden is home to the Flinders Discovery Centre, where you can meet ‘Hughie’, a life-size replica of the Muttaburrasaurus. The surrounding landscapes, including the Porcupine Gorge National Park, offer scenic trails and panoramic views.
Richmond takes you further back in time, to when much of inland Australia was underwater. At Kronosaurus Korner, discover marine fossils, including the mighty Kronosaurus, which once roamed these ancient waters. Don’t miss the opportunity to fossick for your fossils at the designated free sites. No visit to Richmond is complete without spending some time at Lake Fred Tritton, perfect for swimming, skiing, canoeing, or to enjoy the playground and waterpark on its banks.
Nestled among Mitchell Grass plains, Julia Creek is renowned for its rich birdlife and unique animals, like the endangered Julia Creek Dunnart. The At the Creek Visitor Centre provides an interactive experience about the town’s natural and cultural assets. Be sure to take a dip in the warm therapeutic artesian waters at the Julia Creek Artesian Bath Houses.
Known as the Friendly Heart of the Great North West, Cloncurry is not just a mining town but also the birthplace of the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Visit the John Flynn Place Museum to learn more. If you’re visiting in August, get ready for some action at the Cloncurry Stockman’s Challenge & Campdraft.
Your journey concludes in Mount Isa, an oasis in the outback. Renowned for its vast mines, the town invites you to the Hard Times Mine for a real underground experience. The Outback at Isa complex provides a comprehensive insight into the region’s geology, fossils, and history. Don’t forget to enjoy the panoramic views from the City Lookout.
The Overlander’s Way is a trip through the pages of Queensland’s rich history, diverse landscapes, and resilient spirit. From coastal vistas to fossil-rich lands and from pioneering tales to mining marvels, this route offers a comprehensive Australian outback experience.
So, rev up your engines, and embark on a journey this winter that promises memories for a lifetime!
Visit www.caravanqld.com.au/park to find a caravan park to stay at as you travel along the Overlander’s Way.
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