From Southern Cross to Merredin: Scenic Drive in WA’s Wheatbelt

Embarking on a scenic drive from Southern Cross to Merredin offers a delightful journey through the heart of Western Australia’s Wheatbelt. This trip is packed with stunning landscapes, endless expanses of golden wheat fields, and intriguing small towns. Join us as we explore the highlights of this route.

The Route Overview

The drive covers a distance of approximately 115 kilometers, making it a manageable day trip. Our journey begins in the town of Southern Cross, a historic mining hub, and ends in Merredin, the largest regional center in the Wheatbelt.

Best Times to Travel

We found spring to be an ideal time to travel, with the weather being mild and the wildflowers in full bloom.

Top Attractions Along the Way

1. Yilgarn History Museum: Our first stop in Southern Cross where we explored the rich history of the gold mining days. For more details, visit Yilgarn Shire.
2. Nature’s Window: A short detour to Marvel Loch offers a spectacular geological formation that we enjoyed for its unique view. Check it out on Google Maps.
3. Collgar Wind Farm: Nearing Merredin, we stopped off to see one of Australia’s largest wind farms. More information is available through Collgar Wind Farm.

Exploring Merredin

Merredin, our destination, surprised us with a variety of attractions:

• The Merredin Railway Station Museum, showcasing the town’s rail history.
• The Merredin Peak Reserve for a short hike and panoramic views of the Wheatbelt.

Details can be found at the Merredin Visitor Centre.

Travel Tips

Here are a few tips we found useful:

• Ensure your vehicle is well-prepared for long distances, as service stations can be sparse.
• Pack extra water and snacks, especially if traveling in summer.
• Plan stops in advance using tools such as Google Maps Directions.

We hope this overview of the scenic drive from Southern Cross to Merredin encourages exploration of the serene Wheatbelt region. From historic towns to vast landscapes, each mile offers something unique.