If you’re an avid 4X4er chasing adventure, there’s nothing quite like tackling Australia’s most remote track: the Canning Stock Route. Spanning 1,850 kilometres from Wiluna to Billiluna, this iconic outback trek is as rugged as it is breathtaking. Pat recently shared his expert advice on preparing for this monumental journey, and here’s the lowdown on his key tips to get you started.
Why Take on the Canning Stock Route?
The Canning is a track like no other. Over 19 to 21 days, you’ll navigate rocky terrain, corrugations, and endless red sand stretches. While other Aussie favourites like Cape York or the Simpson Desert are popular 4X4 destinations, few adventurers undertake this incredible route. If you’re after solitude and stunning landscapes, the Canning is the ultimate challenge.
Key Preparation Tips
Preparation is everything. Here are Pat’s essentials:
- Fuel Planning: With only one fuel stop at Kunawarritji, you’ll need to calculate your fuel needs carefully. A long-range tank or additional jerry cans are non-negotiable.
- Water and Food: Plan for 21 days and prepare for bush-sourced water to need filtration. Consider a high-quality filtration system and carry plenty of drinking water to avoid nasty surprises like Giardia.
- Vehicle Setup:
- A suspension upgrade is essential—choose robust, reliable gear rather than extreme lifts or oversized tyres.
- Daily checks are critical. The corrugations are brutal, so tighten bolts, inspect for leaks, and monitor your vehicle’s wear and tear.
- Safety Gear: Satellite communications like Starlink or a PLB are lifesavers in remote areas. Don’t skimp on recovery insurance—it could save you tens of thousands of dollars if things go south.
When to Go
Plan your trip between May and August, when the weather is cooler, and conditions are favourable. Avoid the scorching heat and potential rain damage during the rest of the year.
Watch the Full Adventure
Over on YouTube Pat dives deep into his preparation and shares some incredible insights about the challenges and rewards of the Canning Stock Route in his latest video. Whether you’re dreaming about attempting it yourself or simply want to see what makes this track so special, the video is a must-watch.
Watch the video above and don’t forget to subscribe to Pat Callinan’s 4X4 Adventures YouTube channel for weekly tips, tricks, and stunning adventures.
Have you tackled the Canning or plan to? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!
1 comment
Suspension upgrade?? modern vehicles I guess, Did it in 2012 in a MJ Triton Dual cab loaded up 2 people and camping gear , extra water carried where back seat was . great trip , just need meticulus planning and preparation. Replaced 2 uni joint at Kunnurra before the run back to eastern Vic.It had done 450K klm, was a great vehicle . A couple of years before did the simpson desert and there needed a lift yes , as got stuck on a few sand dunes due mainly ” off tracking “over the top of some dunes!!!
The other vehicle was a ex telstra Patrol which broke a spring on the last day , chained it up to carry on , was after market up grade , funnily enough they did the same trip the next year and the same thing happened. Also came on the Simpson trip and couldnt get up Big Red , triton up first go !!