7 reasons to road trip through WA this winter
Winter isn’t the preferred time to travel in WA.
But it sure has its perks. With thousands of kilometres of untouched coastline, deep forests, excellent wine regions, and breathtaking natural wonders, it’s actually one of the best places to be during the cooler months.
Here’s why.
1. It’s always warm somewhere in WA
It’s true. Even in the coolest months of July and August, temperatures in the northernmost parts of the State range from 15 to 30 degrees!
If that’s not a reason to get up and start packing your Subaru Forester, then we’re not sure what is. In all seriousness, WA’s warmer climates are perfect for families and friends hoping to escape the miserable wet weather that sets in around June. Escaping to the northern areas of the State takes you about a day’s drive. From there, you’re set to dive into the balmy waters around Shark Bay, or even further around Ningaloo Reef and Exmouth.
2. Less crowded
While tourists and holidaymakers can be found almost anywhere at any time these days, winter is your chance to make the most of the sights without the busy crowds that start flooding in around September and October.
Depending on where you’re headed, you may want to check when the high season begins and ends to avoid the crowds as best you can. The good news is that WA is enormous: 2.6 million square kilometres. So don’t feel like you’re going to miss out on some private time.
3. Fewer fire restrictions
Roasting marshmallows on an open flame is one of the many winter treats you can look forward to in WA’s more rural areas. If you’re planning a winter trip, you can make the most of the wet season by enjoying an open fire (local restrictions permitting) and testing your roasting skills.
Remember to build your fire carefully and check the local restrictions before doing anything. Illegal fires can carry severe consequences.
4. Do more stargazing
Winter brings with it some wonderfully crisp and clear night skies. Whether you’re camping out in the desert, bunked up in a caravan or tucked away in your holiday home, Western Australia’s night skies offer some of the most spectacular views in the world.
Even WA’s largest towns and cities offer spectacular views of the night sky, but the experience is unbeatable once you’re out in the wild.
For anyone hoping to catch a deeper look into space, then why not visit one of the local stargazing sites where you can make sure of professional telescopes and modern technologies to see further than ever.
5. Less traffic = safer roads
The cooler months bring with it a change in mood. People are more insular and willing to stay at home. For anyone who’s thinking of making a road trip, winter is the best time to avoid the busy roads in and out of the city.
If you’re not used to WA roads, beware of road trains (long trucks) which are both large and difficult to see past. When overtaking, be careful not to underestimate the length of these vehicles. If you’re in kangaroo territory, be especially careful when driving during the night and at dusk/dawn. Animals like to lie on the warm roads during the cooler hours of the night.
6. The beef pies are to-die-for
If there’s one thing we can (mostly all) agree on it's that beef pies on the road are the best.
And WA has an abundance of them. For your next winter road trip, make a pie stop and savour the juicy goodness. After all, this is what road tripping is about - the fun stories you make along the way become the stories you remember it by.
7. Winter delivers the perfect hiking weather
While WA has a fairly stable climate, hiking during the height of summer (from December to February) can actually be a dangerous gig. If you’re not prepared for the extreme heat of above 40 degrees, it can be a fatal exercise.
Winter, on the other hand, is the perfect time to take a long hike. With temperatures more stable, you can make the most of the scenery and (hopefully) not end up sweating too much. No matter the season, remember to bring plenty of water with you, sturdy shoes and a hat.
Bonus tip: make sure your car is winter-ready
For many, winter is the time for bunking in and making fires, relaxing with a cup of hot tea or coffee. For others, it’s a time of adventure, energy and fun. If you’re thinking of heading off on a weekend getaway this winter - make sure your car is up to the job. Visit your local dealership to make sure your car is prepared to take on the winter roads.
