The west is calling you this next long weekend, why not answer it? Remember the family road trip, the car drive adventure, stopping on the way, and exploring the nooks and crannies in your own time. The family games, the conversations, the packed lunch… admittedly there was sibling tension and long haul drives unearthed some frustrations but in the same breath they also provided the resolution – it’s hard to be angry at your sister for stealing the last lolly when she is also your friend at the destination you’re staying at. We tend to think most of us remember the road trip with the family, like the song says ‘life is a highway…’ and boy do we have some highway for you.
So, let’s get stuck into it. It’s 384 km to Hughenden from Townsville around 4 hours if you’re planning to not stop – but at Visit Hughenden we are about stretching the legs and taking it all in. A spot of morning tea, a small exploration at the national park and taking every photo opportunity on the way.
Here we go…
Oh and one more thing… it sounds crazy but make sure to pack your paddle board, kayak or canoe. Trust us, it’ll get some use.
Day one: Coffee, views and highways.
It’s time to rouse the troops and hit the road. Pack for the weather, usually fine sunny days and cooler nights, perfect for exploring. Without further ado let’s drive west along the Flinders Highway (the A6) and towards our first stop – morning tea at Charters Towers. Charters Towers hardly needs an introduction with its rich history (in gold, antiquity and stories). But, we’re just going to stop for a little bit; stretch our legs, grab a coffee, snack and maybe have a wee. Try the Stock Exchange Cafe for a brief respite and an opportunity to take in the ambience and history of this landmark building. All caffeinated and ready for the next leg? Great! Hop back in we’ve got a few country miles to go.
Next Stop, Ju Ju’s lookout and a brief photo at the White Mountain National park. White Mountain National Park is without a doubt, best taken in from the air – if you have the time a flight with Fox helicopters is without a doubt one of the greatest experiences you can have in Hughenden. The view from above of White Mountain National Park is the rival of any in Australia – we stand by that. However, helicopter flights aside we like the idea of getting out at the nearby lookout and taking a few snaps. Ju Ju’s lookout is around 90 minutes from Charters Towers – the perfect distance to get out and take in the panorama and expanse of wilderness under a never-ending blue sky.
Next Stop, Ju Ju’s lookout and a brief photo at the White Mountain National park. White Mountain National Park is without a doubt, best taken in from the air – if you have the time a flight with Fox helicopters is without a doubt one of the greatest experiences you can have in Hughenden. The view from above of White Mountain National Park is the rival of any in Australia – we stand by that. However, helicopter flights aside we like the idea of getting out at the nearby lookout and taking a few snaps. Ju Ju’s lookout is around 90 minutes from Charters Towers – the perfect distance to get out and take in the panorama and expanse of wilderness under a never-ending blue sky.
By now, you’re surely getting hungry again – it’s time to head to Torrens Creek for Lunch at the Exchange Hotel. A short 15-minute drive from the lookout and you’ll find yourself at Torrens Creek. You really can’t miss the pub, sit down, grab a cold drink and order some fantastic ‘pub-grub’. Zander, the owner, is an easygoing local who never imagined himself owning an outback pub but has embraced the lifestyle and thrown himself into the task. It’s a good honest pub with cold bevvies (beverages), tasty food and easy-going staff. After a long drive it’s perfect, but don’t get too comfortable there’s some exploring to do! Visit Oolong Aboriginal Art shop and have a chat with Ned. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a stroll by the banks of Torrens Creek and find some great artwork from @DRAPL.
Fed, watered and walked – time to keep going, but don’t stress you’re almost at Hughenden. An easy hour drive in the mid-afternoon – take in the rolling plains of flinders grass, see the mammoth wind turbines in the far-off distance from the Kennedy Energy Park and keep an eye out for camels munching on the invasive Prickly Acacia weed by the roadside.
So, you’re here at Hughenden – time to set up and settle down. Hughenden has some great places to stay and recover, ensuring that you’re ready to get out and make the most of your time. Revive yourself and get ready for the days of adventure ahead of you. You can view our accommodation here or if you travelled by caravan, or RV or if you’re looking for camping, check out the free camp in town, which offers water and a dump point, plus the ability to walk to town from camp – you can find it here.
So, what’s left? Have a wander around town, head to the lake to cool off with your paddle board or kayak if you brought t. Maybe drop in for a drink and a meal or just put your feet up – it’s been a long day.
Keen to keep planning read day two here.
See you next time
The ‘Hughey’ team.
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