Trail summary
Hike overview
The Mallee Stop walking track offers a fascinating introduction to the breathtaking scenic contrasts of outback NSW. Wander through an environment that is at once harsh and beautiful; the ground like a moonscape but brimming with plant life; the red earth stark against an impossibly blue sky.
Pack a picnic lunch and set out from Mallee Stop, positioned on the eastern side of Lake Mungo along the Mungo Self-guided Drive tour. Be a part of Mungo's history and add your footprints to the sand as you tread this flat track through the heart of mallee country. You'll loop through an area of mallee eucalypts, then head over a low dune studded with pointy spinifex grass. The track also features signs explaining the diversity of the mallee species encountered, as well as other equally significant plants and Mungo's fauna.
When you return to Mallee Stop, pull out that picnic and relax in the peaceful surroundings. You may even see a kangaroo or two bounding by.
Take a virtual tour of Mallee Stop walking track captured with Google Street View Trekker.
Tips
Please do not disturb or remove anything from the park while walking.
There is no mobile coverage in Mungo National Park.
Visit NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service for more information on this trail.
The longitude and latitude of the start and end points are approximately only and should not be used for navigation purposes. Please contact me if you know the correct coordinates.
Map and GPX file
Looks like I don’t have a GPX file for this trail yet. If you have one you’d be willing to share, please email it to me so we can help other hikers have a safer, easier time out there. I’ll double-check each file to make sure it aligns with official tracks and topo maps before adding it to this hike. Thanks so much for helping build an even better hiking resource.
Getting there
Mallee Stop walking track is in the Walls of China precinct of Mungo National Park. To get there:From Sturt Highway, take Silver City Highway south of Mildura.Turn right into Arumpo Road and follow to the endTurn left into Balranald RoadTake the first right into Mailbox Road and continue to the Mungo Visitor CentreFollow Mungo Self-guided Drive tour to the Mallee Stop Road quality Check the weather before you set out as the road to Mallee Stop can become boggy when it rains. Parking Parking is available at Mallee Stop
Photo gallery
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
Track grade
Grade 4 (Hard) - Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
About the region
Mungo National Park in the Murray-Riverina region
Mungo National Park is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.
Suggest an edit
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
Similar trails nearby
Looking for things to do in Mungo National Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
Let someone know
Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.
Explore safe
Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe
Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.