THE OODNADATTA IN THE WET

Unexpected Rain and Mud in Australia's Red Center

- DAN GREC 

The Oodnadatta Track is one of Australia's most iconic and famous outback tracks. Quirky name aside, the Oodnadatta is well known for being remote, scorching hot even in the winter months, and severely dusty. That last point bears repeating. This is the kind of Outback "bulldust" that is as fine as talcum powder that works its way past door seals and zips and leaves a fine coating on every surface inside and out.

Of course, the track has plenty of redeeming qualities, too. There are a smattering of natural hot springs, quirky outback towns and pubs, date palm plantations from the Middle East, and plenty of stunning views across the rugged desert.

While I thought I knew exactly what we had in store for the next week or so, I couldn't have been more wrong.

Going Nowhere, Fast

Dropping down out of the Flinders Ranges, we were surprised to see evidence of recent flooding on the main North South highway but didn't think much of it. We just had a couple of weeks of scorching hot sun and dust and had no idea there was any rain forecasted for the area. In the great Aussie tradition, we set up the swag for the night at the back of the Copley Hotel and Pub-the only watering hole for an hour in any direction. Sitting at the bar is a great way to hear all the local gossip, and later we move outside to sit around a bonfire and swap stories of Outback travel.