Day 97 - Newman to Tom Price and Mount Nameless

We left dusty Newman on a beautiful sunny day and headed for Tom Price some 320km away.  It was a relaxed drive over excellent roads as we wound our way through the delightful Hamersley Ranges. We were on their northern side so they were bathed in sunshine most of the way. For about 200km we were retracing our steps which we did to avoid taking the van over the rough, dusty roads of the shorter alternative route.

It was a delight to arrive in Tom Price to be greeted with a green oasis in the customary red.  There were even some palm trees and the parks and nature strips were green and obviously cared for.  The town is small but has a comfortable and welcoming ambiance.

Late this afternoon we tackled Mount Nameless, a huge mountain behind the town.  Red roads to get to its base and then a challenging drive to the top.  The road was rough in places and very steep, the steepest we have experienced.  It required low range first gear in many places and passing cars was demanding. Yes, there were others as silly as we were, taking the challenge.  It was all very much worthwhile for the view from the top was superb, 300 degrees overlooking the mine, the town and the hundreds of hills that make the Pilbara what it is.  A silvery mist was descending on the hills as the evening approached and as we were leaving the summit, a chill wind sent us scurrying for the comfort of the car.  What a view!  What an experience!

120714 Hamersley Range north of Newman on Great Northern Highway

120714 Hamersley Ranges heading west along Karijini Way

120714 Coming into Tom Price

120714 Mount Nameless, the mountain behind Tom Price

120714 Looking west from the top of Mount Nameless

120714 The town of Tom Price from Mount Nameless (where the dark green is)

120714 Another view from Mount Nameless

120714 Portion of the iron ore mine from Mount Nameless

120714 More of the iron ore mine from Mount Nameless

120714 Driving down Mount Nameless