Spending a few days in Wudinna was a great way to recharge (including multiple visits to the bakery). Stayed an additional couple of days to escape the heat and rain before finally heading off in light drizzle. Following the access trail next to the pipeline all the way to Kyancutta, the first 13km were great. Upon reaching the tiny town, I took a quick break for food and sat listening to a gent attempting to recall his dog, only to be completely ignored as the dog went about his business. From Kyancutta I was forced to hit the black top once more. The traffic returned, along with a few decent hills as I steadily gained altitude. At least there was the occasional downhill to enjoy and the wind was light. After a while I took a risk on one of the small access trails that ran along the fence to one of the farms, but that proved to be the wrong choice. The trail was predominantly sand and very difficult going, so it wasnt long before I made my way back to the highway. Eventually, around the 90km mark, the highway turned North East and I reached a junction that, according to the map, offered an off road option all the way to Kimba. While the trail began with promise, it soon changed from rocky to very soft sand, pock marked with rabbit holes. Going up hills was at walking pace. Even the downhill sections were barely any faster. I decided it wasnt worth the effort, so pushed the bike through the bush and across the rail line back to the highway. Another few km along the road, I found the correct junction. Turns out the previous trail was just some random track not marked on the map. The actual road was unsealed but in top condition. No sand anywhere. The rest of the ride passed quickly as I raced along with the wind behind me. Not sure if its the time of year or just the natural generosity of the people in Kimba, but after staying a night at the Kimba hotel, the managers heard about this trip and offered a free room for the next couple of days. To top it off, one of the staff invited me around for Christmas lunch. Have absolutely loved the couple of days spent here. Tomorrow begins the journey to Port Augusta, this time taking back roads. Hope everyone is having a great Christmas :-)
Posted on: Thu, 25 Dec 2014 08:07:40 +0000
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