The Finke River Track is the scene of the infamous offroad race/sideshow carnival that goes down each year in June.

For the rest of the year, however, it’s just a beautiful outback touring route between Finke Gorge and Watarrka National Park.

The Finke Gorge National Park is located about 140km out of Alice Springs, so easily within range of an overnight expedition, or even a daytrip, for Alice Springs locals and interstate visitors alike.

If you manage to line up your visit with the Queens Birthday long weekend in June, be prepared to witness the spectacle of the Finke Desert Race, an offroad race from Alice Springs to Aputula Community, via any and all offroad contraptions that can be coerced into conquering the terrain.

The race is open to 4WDs, motorcycles, quads and buggies, and is a guaranteed spectacle each year.

STUFF TO DO

4WDING is the main reason to visit, however it should be noted that sections of the track can be quite challenging.

A high clearance vehicle is necessary to negotiate some steep rocky sections and deep sandy patches.

BUSHWALKING is popular within certain parts of the Finke Gorge National Park. Kalaranga Lookout is an easy 20-minute climb and offers spectacular views of the natural rock amphitheatre.

The Mpaara Walk is a little more challenging, taking approximately two hours to complete, and allows visitors to view Western Arrernte rock art en route.

IMPORTANT INFO

LOCATION: Approximately 140km west of Alice Springs, the Finke region can be reaches in about two hours drive from the regional centre.

BUSH CAMPING is permitted within the park, however no facilities are provided. Camping is not permitted between Hermannsburg and Palm Valley.

FUEL is available in Alice Springs.

MORE INFO is available at www.parksandwildlife.nt.gov.au