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Thomas River crossing to Mt Arid car park, Cape Arid NP

Trail difficulty
Trail difficulty
  • Length 50km
  • Est. time 1-3 hours
  • Return
Today

23°C

23°

12°

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This challenging remote 4wd beach drive starts at the crossing of the Thomas River just past the Thomas River Day Use Area.  Once crossing the river, drive east along this amazing coastline. Most of the driving is on the beach which can be challenging due to the changing conditions of the beach sands being soft or firm. There are creek washout crossings along the way which can be hazardous. There are sections where you will leave the beach and head inland on single lane tracks and then back to the beach. Some of these single tracks are sandy and others go over rocky outcrops. After approximately 25km you will access the track off the beach which leads to the Mt Arid car park.  The track from the beach to the carpark is well sign posted.

Before starting this beach drive, you will need to research the times for the high and low tides as well as the swell conditions. This is extremely important that you have a good understanding of the tide conditions as a high tide can restrict access and make this beach drive hazardous.  This remote track is for experienced 4wd drivers only, who have the appropriate equipment in their vehicles to deal issues that can occur when driving in remote areas and in sandy and rocky track conditions. 

Esperance Visitor Centre

(08) 9038 1555

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Here is everything you need to know before visiting this trail.

Time / Duration

1 Hour

Length

50km return.

Fees

National Park fees apply at Cape Arid National Park

Trail Start

Cape Arid National Park, 123km (1hrs, 30min) east of Esperance.

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Trail End

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When to go

September through to May

What’s the weather like?

4WD

Very Difficult

Low Range 4WD vehicles required with standard clearance. 4WD experience or training required.

Prohibited items

No dogs allowed in national parks

Today Jul 18, 2:36pm

23°C

Feels like 22°C

Max 23°

Min 12°

Precipitation: 0%

Visibility: 10km

Wind: 8.35km/h NW

Weather data provided by:

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