Hyden Norseman Road – What To See And Do Plus More

We drove the Hyden Norseman Road in Sept 2024 and discovered some of WA’s hidden gems – from salt lakes to ancient rock formations.

Amanda and I completed a memorable trip along the Hyden Norseman Road towing our caravan in early September 2024. We travelled this iconic outback route that stretches from Hyden, home of the famous Wave Rock to Norseman, a town rich in gold rush history. In this guide, I’ll share what we experienced, what you can expect and some tips to make the most of your trip.

Changing Roadside Scenery Between Norseman And Hyden

Road Conditions On The Hyden Norseman Road

Road conditions experienced on the Hyden Norseman Road conditions can vary depending on the season. While most of the road is unsealed it is generally well-graded and accessible for 4WD vehicles, caravans and even some 2WD vehicles under good weather conditions. However, after heavy rain the road can become slippery with soft patches and occasional washouts.

When we travelled in September 2024 the road was in good condition. We made sure to drive cautiously and check conditions beforehand. For the latest updates contact,

• Shire of Kondinin: https://www.kondinin.wa.gov.au
• Shire of Dundas: https://www.dundas.wa.gov.au

History Of The Hyden Norseman Road

The road has a long history, initially established as a stock route and later used as a pathway for miners and settlers heading to the goldfields. Today, it serves as a well maintained gravel road for adventurous travellers, connecting the agricultural town of Hyden with Norseman in the Eastern Goldfields. Spanning approximately 300 kilometres the road traverses diverse terrains including the Great Western Woodlands and expansive salt lakes.

Lake Johnston Seen From The Camping Area

Highlights Of The Trip

The Hyden to Norseman Road is full of unique stops and stunning scenery. Here are some of the highlights we experienced along the way.

1. Wave Rock (Hyden)
   We started our trip in Hyden, home to the iconic Wave Rock. This rock formation is shaped like a giant wave. It’s considered one of Australia’s natural wonders and a must-see before beginning your journey.
2. The Breakaways
   About 80 kilometres along the road we pulled in at the Breakaways. The Breakaways are a series of ancient rock formations. These colourful cliffs offer incredible photo opportunities. While exploring we found a geocache adding a fun and unexpected element to our stop.
3. Lake Johnston
   Further down the road, we stopped at Lake Johnston, a vast salt lake. The shimmering white surface of the lake against the blue sky was stunning. Here, we discovered another geocache, which added to our sense of adventure.
4. Holts Rock
   We camped overnight at Holts Rock, a peaceful and scenic spot surrounded by woodlands. The area features a short walking trail around the rock, offering lovely views of the surrounding landscape. It was a great free camp and nice and quiet. We only had one other camper sharing the whole area with us.
5. Norseman
   The journey ended in Norseman. Norseman is an historic town that served as a gateway to the goldfields. The town features several attractions, including a striking display of corrugated iron camels that reflect its connection to camel transport during the gold rush era.

Camping Along The Hyden Norseman Road

There are several excellent camping options along the Hyden Norseman Road, ranging from formal caravan parks to informal bush camping spots. Here are some of the places we considered and experienced:

1. Wave Rock Caravan Park (Hyden): A well-equipped starting point with powered sites, hot showers and other amenities.
2. Holt Rock: This is where we chose to camp. It’s a free camping area with plenty of space for caravans and tents. Be sure to bring your own water and supplies. Holt Rock camping area is about 34 kilometres south off the main road. It’s accessed by a good dirt road. Turn off towards Bushfire Rock and follow your GPS. GPS coordinates for Holt Rock are -32.674985°, 119.416316°.
3. Lake Johnston: Informal camping is available here, offering stunning views of the salt lake.
4. Newman Rock: Another free camping spot with basic facilities and beautiful surroundings.

When camping along the road, it’s essential to be self-sufficient as facilities are minimal. Always take your rubbish with you to keep these pristine areas clean for future visitors.

Campfire At Holt Rock Free Camping Area

Activities Along The Road Between Hyden And Norseman

The road offers a variety of activities for travellers. Here’s what you can do:

1. Photography: The landscapes along the road, from salt lakes to woodlands, are incredibly photogenic.
2. Geocaching: We found geocaches at several stops, including the Breakaways and Lake Johnston, which added excitement to our journey.
3. Bushwalking: Many stops, like Holts Rock, feature short trails that allow you to explore the surrounding area.
4. Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for kangaroos, emus and birdlife, particularly early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
5. Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, the night skies are breathtaking and perfect for stargazing.
6. Historical Sites: Many of the roadside stops have signboards highlighting the history of the site. The stops are all clearly marked and give plenty of warning time to slow down and stop.

Weather On The Hyden Norseman Road

The weather along the road between Hyden and Norseman can significantly influence your travel experience. Summers are very hot, with daytime temperatures often exceeding 40°C, while winters are cooler but can bring cold nights. Rainfall is infrequent, but even a small amount of rain can make the unsealed road challenging to navigate.

Spring and autumn are the best times to travel, with milder temperatures and, in spring, a spectacular display of wildflowers.

Wildflowers At Wave Rock WA

Travel Tips For The Hyden Norseman Road

1. Check Road Conditions: Always check the latest road conditions with the Shire of Kondinin or Shire of Dundas before setting off.
2. Be Prepared: Carry plenty of water, food and spare tyres. There are no fuel stops between Hyden and Norseman, so fill up before you start.
3. Drive Safely: Take your time on the unsealed road and watch for soft patches or corrugations.
4. Plan Your Stops: Have a rough plan for where you’ll stop to rest or camp.
5. Respect Wildlife: Drive cautiously, especially at dawn and dusk, when animals are most active.

Fuel Stops On The Hyden To Norseman Road

Planning your journey along the Hyden to Norseman Road requires careful preparation, especially when it comes to fuel. This remote stretch of road offers no fuel stops between Hyden and Norseman, making it essential to top up your tank before departure.

In Hyden, the local service station is your first and most reliable spot to refuel. Stock up on essentials here, as the next chance to refuel will be 300 kilometres away in Norseman. Both towns are well equipped with facilities.

Overestimating your fuel needs is better than underestimating. You never know what detours or unexpected conditions could arise.

Travellers towing caravans or exploring the region with a 4WD should consider carrying jerry cans as a precautionary measure. This ensures peace of mind on an otherwise fuel-less stretch. Proper planning for fuel requirements is key to a smooth and stress free journey through Western Australia’s breathtaking outback.

Lots Of Colours In The Breakways On Hyden Norseman Road

Potable Water On The Hyden Norseman Road

Securing a reliable supply of potable water is essential when traversing the Hyden Norseman Road as this remote stretch offers few opportunities to refill. With no dedicated water stations between Hyden and Norseman, travellers must be fully self-sufficient to avoid unnecessary risks.

Before setting off, ensure you fill all water containers in Hyden. The town provides access to potable water, making it the best place to prepare for the journey. Norseman, at the other end of the route, is another opportunity to refill, but the 300-kilometre expanse between these points requires careful planning.

The dry and often unforgiving terrain along the road means water is not just for drinking. Cooking, washing, and even vehicle emergencies can deplete your supply faster than anticipated. We recommend carrying ample reserves in portable containers or a water tank fitted to your vehicle.

Be careful and conserve water whenever possible. Simple steps like using biodegradable wipes instead of water for cleaning or cooking with minimal water can make a significant difference. Adequate preparation for Hyden Norseman Road water needs will ensure a safe and comfortable journey across Western Australia’s rugged outback.

Norseman Hotel They Have Nice Cold Beer!

Final Thoughts

Driving the Hyden Norseman Road was an unforgettable journey for Amanda and I. It’s a road that offers a perfect mix of history, natural beauty and adventure. From the fascinating breakaways to the serene salt lakes, every stop along the way added something special to our trip.

If you’re looking to explore a unique and less travelled part of Western Australia the Hyden to Norseman Road is a fantastic choice. Be prepared, take your time and enjoy the remarkable landscapes and experiences this route has to offer.

Safe travels!

Photo Gallery

FAQs Frequently Asked Questions About The Hyden Norseman Road