The Canning Stock Route was surveyed for the purpose of droving cattle from the Kimberley region of Western Australia south to the goldfields. Wells were constructed one day's travel apart for a mob of cattle. The wells were timbered and provided with A-frames to lift water to troughs. They have fallen into disrepair although some may have been restored. The route is one of the classic four wheel drive adventures - and one that must not to be taken lightly .
Navigation is hard, there are sand dunes and other difficult terrain, and it is very, very remote.
Vehicle fire due to overheating and the build-up of spinifex under a 4WD is a serious hazard. Check ahead, and be prepared with enough food and fuel etc. AN4WDRN reports that the Canning Stock Route is open from end to end after prolonged closure of various sections. It's reasonable when you consider the wear and tear on station tracks, and it is negligible compared with your fuel bill. During periods that the south end of the CSR is impassable, alternative routes may be available between well 9 and Wiluna via Glen Ayle Station, or between well 5 and Wiluna via Granite Peak station.