Australia's Golden Outback - Self Drive Trails : DriveWA

Self Drive Trails

Inside Australia Statues on Lake Ballard

The Golden Pipeline Heritage Trail
Discover the inner workings of CY O’Connor’s famed pipeline, engineered in the 1890’s. The trail stretches 560 kilometres east of Mundaring Weir, to the dry lands of Kalgoorlie. The Golden Pipeline, a National Trust of Australia (WA) initiative, is a heritage trail with great historical significance.

The Golden Pipeline Heritage Trail allows visitors the opportunity to explore the history and culture of pipeline country. Along the trail be enthralled by the 100 year old steam pumping station or walk across a dam wall. The trail provides visitors with a glimpse into the past; to experience the lives and practices of those who built and maintained the pipeline. Various museums are located along the trail as well as a number of walking trails, which range from extensive cycle tracks to walking trails through the gardens and forests surrounding.

The Golden Pipeline Heritage Trail Guide can be purchased from DriveWA's shop, the National Trust, larger book shops in the metro region, newsagents along the Heritage Trail, in tourist centres along the Trail, and in major towns like Albany and Busselton. It retails at $34.95.

Golden Quest Discovery Trail

Explore the fascinating Golden Quest Discovery Trail, launched in March 2003. The 965 kilometre adventure trail, in which visitors can undertake their own ‘quest for gold’, retraces the events of the early gold-rush and their impacts on the communities of present.

Those with interest in the rich culture of the gold-rush era will be amazed, entertained, educated, and in awe of the many stories told along the trail. Along the trail be delighted to gain knowledge on aboriginal and natural history, architectural and engineered gems, and an array of quirky characters along the way. Extending from Coolgardie to Laverton, the trail encompasses beautiful surrounds, fascinating history, and an emotional journey; as visitors set on a voyage of discovery.

To view an example itinerary for the Golden Quest Discovery Trail, Click Here.

Pioneers Pathway
The Pioneers Pathway is a fantastic alternative to the Great Eastern Highway direct route. The pathway explores the captivating expanse of wheatbelt farmland; meandering through the small towns of Dowerin, Goomalling, Wyalkatchem, Trayning, Kununoppin, and Nungarin. The trip adds a mere 44 kilometres to the traditional Great Eastern Highway route and adds a great historical element to any journey.

The pathway provides visitors with breathtaking scenery, especially during the colourful exquisiteness of wildflower season. Architecture and museums compliment the culture and history of the pathway and provide great educational value to visitors. For nature lovers, the pathway offers a number of stimulating nature walks to break up the drive. The Pioneers Pathway is a fantastic self drive option; whether it be for the weekend or extended travel.

To view an example itinerary for the Pioneers Pathway, Click Here.

Granite and Woodlands Discovery Trail

The Granite and Woodlands Discovery Trail is a ‘not to be missed’ expedition. Encompassing natural beauties and cultural gems, the trail is alive with activity. The trail offers and abundance of attractions including the world renowned Wave Rock. The trail begins just on the skirts of Hyden and concludes in Norseman.

There are 16 fantastic attractions, both natural and cultural, along the trail. These attractions are separated by stunning scenery, eucalypt woodlands, and striking granite outcrops. The trail is gravel, but is still in adequate condition to accommodate family cars and caravans. Due to the harshness of Western Australian weather, especially in the Golden Outback, visitors are recommended to engage in the trail in the cooler months, between March and November.

To view an example itinerary for the Granite and Woodlands Discovery Trail, Click Here.

Best Western Hospitality Inn Kalgoorlie

Kalgoorlie has a rich history steeped in the romance, hard times and booming success of the Gold Mining Industry. more

Nallan Station

Experience warm hospitality and delicious homestyle cooking on this outback working cattle and sheep station. A ideal base to see historic Cue, Walga Rock, Aboriginal drawings, beautiful wildflowers, birdlife and wildlife. more

Gunbarrel Laager Travellers Rest

Experience the friendly atmosphere and wonderful starlit nights on the 200 hectare Gunbarrel Grapes property. The vineyard is ideally situated for travellers planning to undertake the Canning Stock Route to Halls Creek, or the Gunbarrel Highway to Alice Springs. more