Finke / Old South Road
About this track
The Finke—or Old South Road—shadows the heritage Ghan railway line south from Alice Springs to Finke (Aputula) and Lambert Centre, Australia's geographic heart. This 230 km moderate 4WD route cuts through red-centre spinifex and rocky outcrops, famous as the racing ground for the Finke Desert Race. It's a fast, sandy run for drivers comfortable with whoops and corrugations, best tackled in a single long day or split across two.
Highlights
- Sandy whoops (the 'Finke' signature) demand good suspension and line choice
- Lambert Centre: stand at Australia's geographic middle point
- Historic Finke (Aputula) settlement and former Ghan railway heritage
- Corrugations and occasional rocky patches test vehicle and driver
- Remote spinifex country with limited services—fuel at Alice Springs or Kulgera only
What to expect
Largely unformed sand track with heavy corrugations and pronounced whoops, especially in the racing corridor. Terrain alternates between soft sand and consolidated sections. No major water crossings, but track can be rough and washboarded after rain. Moderate remoteness: no towns between Alice and Finke. Driving is fast-paced if conditions suit; slowdowns come from corrugation impact and route-finding through multiple lines.
Permits, prep & good to know
- Permits: No — confirm current details before you go.
- Surface / hazards: Sand, corrugations.
- Remoteness: Moderate — travel self-sufficient.
No permits required. Best April–October; avoid November–March heat and wet-season sand softness. Fuel up in Alice Springs or Kulgera before departure—no bowsers in Finke. Carry 40+ litres extra fuel and 20+ litres water per person. UHF radio and basic recovery gear (snatch straps, shovel, high-lift) essential; convoy travel strongly recommended for remoteness. Tyre pressures 18–22 psi suited to sand. Check road condition with local authorities before travel; sections may be rough post-rain.