10 Must-Do Experiences Along the Overlander’s Way

Take a journey through Outback Queensland’s heart with an iconic road trip through the Overlander’s Way.

Stretching from Townsville in North Queensland to Camooweal in Queensland’s far west, this iconic route follows the Flinders Highway weaving together authentic country towns, pioneering history and unforgettable landscapes.

Here are ten experiences along the Overlander’s Way not to miss!

1. That’s Not a Pub, THIS is a Pub

Walkabout Creek Hotel is one of Outback Queensland’s most iconic watering holes. Established in the 1900s, the pub shot to fame after appearing in the original Crocodile Dundee film. The original movie set was later donated to the hotel by producer John Cornell, with the bar from the film now proudly displayed in the beer garden.  Enjoy an authentic pub meal and a coldie at Australia’s most recognisable bar!

2. Explore An Outback Ghost Town

Just a short detour from the highway near Cloncurry, is Mary Kathleen. Once a thriving uranium mine, the town was sold and stripped bare in 1983 after the mine closed. Now, empty streets and concrete footings are all that remain of a town that once stood proud. The town’s electric blue mine pit is a stunning reminder of Mary Kathleen’s former glory.

Self-contained caravanners can free camp at the remaining ghost town making it an affordable and completely one-of-a-kind stop over, however, the mine is only accessible via 4WD. Those who would prefer a guided tour can book a day trip to Mary Kathleen with North West Tours.

3. Go Deep Into Dark Skies

Experience the brilliance of Outback Queensland’s night skies with the Astronomy Group of Mount Isa. Between March and November, the group hosts regular stargazing events at locations including Lake Moondarra Observatory, the Southern Observatory and Gallipoli Park. From meteor showers and full moons to the dazzling Milky Way stretching overhead, it’s an experience unlike any other.

4. Marvel At Porcupine Gorge

The scenery along the Overlanders Way is the ultimate show, where vast landscapes change in form and colour from lush tropics in North Queensland to the red and rugged landscapes of Mount Isa. Porcupine Gorge (located outside of Hughenden) is a highlight of the route.  Often referred to as Australia’s “Little Grand Canyon”, the park has towering sandstone cliffs and dramatic waterholes.  Dramatic sandstone cliffs, sweeping views and peaceful walking trails offer an unforgettable immersion in the region’s ancient landscapes. Hike to the base of the gorge and swim in the many waterholes scattered along the creek.

5. Walk Amongst Dinosaurs

Anchored by towns like Hughenden and Richmond, the Overlanders Way passes through some of Australia’s richest fossil fields.  Hughenden is considered Queensland’s dinosaur capital with 3,000 fossils discovered in the area to date, including the Muttaburrasaurus. The most famous of these is “Hughie”, a 7m skeletal Muttaburrasaurus residing at the Flinders Discovery Centre.

More dinosaur action can be found in Richmond at Kronosaurus Korner, which houses Australia’s premier collection of marine fossils. Tour the facility before picking up your very own fossicking kit and trying your hand at fossil finding at the nearby sites.

Outback at Isa is home to the Riversleigh Fossil Discovery Centre.  Guided by expert fossil enthusiasts and scientists, you’ll see how fossils are excavated, cleaned, and studied in a working laboratory.

Top Travel Tip: Dino enthusiasts can take a short detour along the Australian Dinosaur Trail encompassing Hughenden, Richmond and neighbouring Winton before rejoining the Flinders Highway.

6. Go Outback At Isa

Outback at Isa is more than a visitor centre as it offers visitors immersive experiences to uncover the stories, culture and history of Mount Isa. Step underground on the iconic Hard Times Mines Tour and experience life as a miner, discover ancient fossils at the Riversleigh Fossil Discovery Centre or connect with Country on a guided Bush Tucker experience. From indigenous culture and prehistoric discoveries to the regions’ rich mining history, Outback at Isa brings the spirit of the Outback to life in one unforgettable stop.

7. Soak Under The Stars In Style

The artesian baths at Julia Creek Caravan Park are one of those unexpected finds that Outback Queensland is known for. The park has custom-built, private bath houses where you can enjoy a restorative soak in mineral rich waters while you sip on a champagne and take in the night skies.

8. Discover Outback’s Spirit in Cloncurry

Few places capture the spirit and ingenuity of Outback Queensland like Cloncurry. This unassuming town played a pivotal role in Australia’s aviation and mining history. Discover the origins of the Royal Flying Doctor Service at John Flynn Place Museum, view artifacts and memorabilia from the Mary Kathleen mine at Cloncurry Unearthed and see one of the original hangars used by Qantas at the Cloncurry Airport (which is still in use today).

9. Go Underground in Mount Isa

In Mount Isa, the real stories lie beneath your feet.  Descend deep into the town’s past with a tour of the Underground Hospital, a remarkable World War II facility carved into solid rock. This fascinating guided tour reveals stories of resilience, innovation and community spirit, offering a unique glimpse into the region’s wartime history. 

While in Mount Isa, you can also step into the boots of a miner at the Hard Times Mine experience.  Here, you’ll immerse yourself into life as an underground miner where stories of grit and determination prevail.  Prepare for dusty boots, glowing headlamps and a fascinating insight into the workings of underground mines.

10. Explore the Camooweal Caves

Near the Queensland-Northern Territory border lies Camooweal Caves National Park. Millions of years in the making, this remote park reveals an ancient landscape of sinkholes, limestone formations and underground caverns waiting to be explored. Base yourself at the nearby Nowranie Waterhole camping area and spend your days birdwatching, mountain biking, trail riding or simply soaking up the solitude.

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BEST TIME TO GO:

April through to October.  Think crisp mornings, sunny days and clear, star-filled nights.

DISTANCE:

The Overlanders Way from Townsville to Mount Isa is approximately 905 kms.  Plan at least 10 to 14 days to enjoy the journey at a relaxed pace and spend time exploring the towns of Hughenden, Julia Creek and Mount Isa.