Timeline
17:30
Drive from Menzies along the Menzies–Sandstone Rd. The road is unsealed but smooth enough for any car. Look for Custom Inside Australia signposts marking the way every 10 km. Arrive at the lake well before the sun sets to find a good vantage point among the sculptures.
18:30
Walk among the 51 forlorn steel figures. The contrast between the dark metal and the dazzling white salt encrusted surface is striking. Use this time to settle in and watch the light change on the sculptures.
19:00
Watch the sunset. In January the sun sets toward the WSW at 19:00, in April toward the W at 17:38, in July toward the WNW at 17:15, and in October toward the W at 18:06. The golden light around 18:26 (Jan), 17:06 (Apr), 16:40 (Jul), or 17:34 (Oct) will cast long shadows across the salt pan, highlighting the textures of the statues.
19:45
Stay for the twilight glow. The light fades quickly in the outback, but the silhouette of the figures against the deepening sky remains powerful. Take your time before heading back to Menzies.
Local tip
There are no food or drink shops at Lake Ballard. You must bring all water and snacks with you from Menzies. The drive is long and remote.
Check before you go
- The road to Lake Ballard is unsealed. While a 4WD is not strictly necessary, drive carefully.
- There is no mobile phone reception or services at the lake.
- Bring plenty of water and sun protection. Temperatures can be extreme.
- Check the sunset times for your specific date of visit to plan your arrival.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Menzies (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).