Getting to the Painted Desert

If you’re coming from the north-west, the turn-off for the Stuart Highway is at Cadney Park and then it’s an 80km drive to the Arckaringa homestead. From the north-east, access is from Oodnadatta, which is 90km away. Follow the Kempe Road south for 50km and then turn right onto Painted Desert Road. The homestead site is 40km down this road.

From the south, the logical route is up the Stuart Highway to Coober Pedy, then follow the signs through town towards Oodnadatta. After approximately 100km it’s a left turn on to Arckaringa Road. Then it’s another 45km to the homestead and only 11km or so from there to the Painted Desert.

Be sure to know where you’re going. Here, outback expert and former geologist Nick Crase checks on his route.

Spare fuel and tyres are essential for outback travel.