Madigan Line

About this track

The Madigan Line is a 670 km crossing of the Simpson Desert's remote northern reaches, tracing explorer Cecil Madigan's 1939 expedition route through SA and NT. This extreme, multi-day desert crossing demands complete self-sufficiency: no fuel, water or services exist along the route. Only experienced desert travellers with purpose-built 4WDs, dual batteries, recovery gear and satellite comms should attempt it. The track is a serious test of vehicle, navigation and mental endurance across soft sand and spinifex scrub.

Highlights

• Madigan's original 1939 expedition camps and navigation markers
• Extreme remoteness — no fuel, water or rescue infrastructure
• Soft sand and corrugated spinifex scrub throughout
• Navigation-critical: accurate GPS and paper maps essential
• 6–8 days of isolated desert driving across two states
• Seasonal closure risk: impassable in wet season (Nov–Apr)

What to expect

Predominantly soft sand interspersed with spinifex scrub and occasional rocky outcrops. Corrugations are common where previous tracks exist; navigation between waypoints often requires cross-country driving. Water crossings are minimal but can be treacherous after rare rainfall. Remoteness is absolute — satellite navigation and communication are non-negotiable. Expect slow progress (40–60 km/day), high fuel consumption and constant vigilance for bogging and mechanical failure.

Permits, prep & good to know

• Permits: Desert Parks Pass — confirm current details before you go.
• Surface / hazards: Soft sand, scrub.
• Remoteness: Extreme — travel self-sufficient, ideally in convoy.
• Carry an EPIRB or satellite communicator, recovery gear, extra fuel and water.

A Desert Parks Pass is required; confirm current permit conditions and track closures with SA Parks and Wildlife and NT Parks before departure. Best May–August only; wet season closures Nov–April are enforced. Carry 100% of fuel and water for the entire route. Convoy travel is mandatory. Fit an EPIRB, dual battery, sand flag, rated recovery points and full spares kit. UHF communication between vehicles is essential. Navigate by GPS and paper topographic maps — no phone signal. Leave no trace: pack all rubbish and fuel containers.