Page 134 - Ebook Explore Cape York

Explore Cape York 128
Old Coach Road
Old Coach Road is different to the other tracks. Some would call
it harder – true – however, it is definitely more technically
challenging. This isn’t a road where you sit behind the steering
wheel and say ‘let’s give it a crack’ with your right foot holding
the pedal to the metal – picking the right line is critical.

If you’re new to four-wheel driving, and even if you’re not, this
track is better done with at least one other vehicle in case you
get into trouble and at times you’re going to want a spotter.
Depending on the time of the year and the state of the track
you may need to do some winching.

Just north of Laura turn left towards the showgrounds. It’s an
easy 32km run to the now closed Jowalbinna, crossing the
shallow, rocky-bottomed ford at Little Laura River.

After the Jowalbinna turnoff ‘shit gets real’, for the next 56km
(7 to 9 hours) plan to spend most of the drive in low range.
You’re going to experience rocky jump-ups (and downs) –
remember you’re going over a range – deep and steep
washouts, winding around fallen trees and hill climbs and
descents. It’s a rough track and not for the fainthearted. The
reward for attempting the track are the breathtaking views from
the top of the range.

Note: when travelling north to south there are signs to keep
you on track, not so when heading from south to north.

Palmer River Roadhouse
Before heading towards Maytown or after successfully
competing Old Coach Road, drop in to Palmer River Roadhouse,
5km north of Whites Creek Road/Maytown turnoff. It’s a great
place for an overnight stay and you’ll learn a lot about the
history of the area while you’re there.

Accommodation: 22 powered caravan and camping sites, 4
permanent tented sites
Facilities: Meals, licenced bar, showers/toilets, outdoor BBQ area,
goldfields museum