This route passes through some of the most arid country in Australia. However, it does actually rain here from time to time, and when it does, the unsealed parts can become impassable. Check the conditions with local authorities if you're thinking of going this way. In mid 2010, the road through the Arckaringa Hills State Heritage Area (also known as the Painted Desert road) was in particularly bad condition. The section south of Oodnadatta is known as the Oodnadatta Track and closely follows the route of the Overland Telegraph and the old Ghan Railway .