Canning Stock Route

The latest update from the VKS network (April 4) has changed their position from "unlikely to open until 2003" to "unlikely to open for some time", with some general improvement in conditions. Here's hoping for lots of sun and wind with no rain!

Agree entirely with your comments Colin.

"I hardly think diverting around flooded lakes in the most remote area of Australia is going to have a significant environmental impact."
Clay, they say "ignorance is no excuse", but I forgive you for that. This site provides some info and links where you can find out the about 'best practices' in regard to 4WDing.

Quotes from Track Care WA and Tread Lightly

The magnificent public and private lands of this country represent a surprisingly fragile resource. A single Off Highway vehicle or hikers in a single file crossing a wet field can leave deep tracks that start erosion and form a long lasting scar on the landscape.

Environmental issues regarding 4WDing have become a hot topic and its important to consider the impact of your vehicle on the environment. Areas are being restricted to vehicle access and a number of these closures has to do with the treatment the area has received in the past.

Think about it - stay on designated tracks, obey private and park signs and be aware that what we do today, impacts on where we can go in the future.

Our aim is to monitor and maintain 4WD tracks in Western Australia some of which were laid down by the early explorers of this great State. Where necessary we will endeavour to keep clean and repair any damage caused by both nature and man.
Our biggest aim is to preserve these tracks for generations to come so that they too
can enjoy the privileges which we have today.


Obey "road closed" signs. The reason why roads are closed may not be always be obvious, but you need to obey these signs. Failure to do so can result in fines and penalties for those who don't comply.

Stick to designated roads and avoid making your own tracks. Where possible, try to avoid 4WD driving when the conditions are really wet and muddy as this can cause serious damage to unsealed roads often making it impassable for others. Sticking to designated tracks will reduce the spread of weeds and plant infection such as Jarrah dieback.

I could have provided you with some useful info in regard to an alternative route on southern part of the CSR. A future edition Hema map may have this trip info for others to enjoy.