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The Big Desert Wilderness is in the north west of the Victorian Mallee country. Within this area are many tracks and destinations to explore. One of those is the renowned Border Track that follows the South Australia, Victorian border.
The track itself is predominantly loose, dry sand with sand ridges crossing at regular intervals. The sandy single lane can fork into several lines crossing the sand ridges. They wind through low scrub on the approach and can be difficult to climb if not fully prepared. The best way to reach the start of the track is from Pinnaroo along Nickolls Road then turn south along the border. Follow the fenceline. The track, frequently passes through the fence depending on local ownership and land use. Remember to always close gates behind you and be respectful of private property. As the name sugests, following the border, the track runs straight for 91 kilometres all the way from Pinnaroo to the southern end at Blue Hills Road. Total distance from Pinnaroo to Kaniva is 140 kilometres.
Tyre attrition can be an issue here as this environment has broken tree roots protuding from the edges of the sand ruts. Intrusive dead tree branches threaten to scratch your paint hampering attempts to aviod sharp obsticales. This is a good place to have those heavy duty purpose built 4WD tyres with strong walls. Tyre pressure must be reduced to drive the sand ridges and avert damage from the tree roots. The sandy hills can be a great fun challenge as you bump and sway your way over the scrubby dunes. Momentum is your friend in most sandy situations! It is highly recommended to leave the camper trailer at home if possible as many of the sand hills are quite challenging being long and steep. There are some bypass tracks off the main route if towing cannot be avoided.
If you're well prepared the Border track can be completed as a short day drive. Camping is prohibited along the track although a designated camp site is available at Red Bluff which is roughly 73 kilometres from Pinnaroo and 3 kilometres off the main track to the east. There is usually plenty of vacant, flat camping space with shade trees and drop toilets. South of Red Bluff there are some low lying areas that have large bogholes along the track. These can be attempted if you really need a challenge or easily avoided by simply driving around them. Make sure you to keep the Border track in mind when planning your next trip to the area.
