Metricup
Metricup
Northam
Northam
Driving

Metricup to Northam

Updated: 31 May 2026

The drive from Metricup to Northam covers 280 kilometers and takes approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes. You will travel north through Perth and then head east on the Great Eastern Highway into the heart of the Wheatbelt. Northam is a historic town situated on the Avon River, famous for its hot air ballooning and the annual Avon Descent. This is a pleasant drive through rural landscapes.

Total Distance: 280 km driving distance; 250 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving via the highway network takes 3 hours 15 minutes.
Cheapest Way
Driving your own vehicle is the most cost-effective option.
Compare Metricup to Northam Routes
Driving
Direct
Duration
3 hours 15 minutes
Avg Price
50-60 AUD in fuel
Operator
Personal vehicle
Route
Forrest Highway, Roe Highway, and Great Eastern Highway

Expect heavy traffic through the Perth metropolitan area.

Travel Tips
  • Traffic
    Avoid peak hour traffic in the Perth metropolitan area.
  • Fuel
    Fill up in major towns along the Great Eastern Highway.
  • Navigation
    Use a GPS to navigate the route through Perth.
  • Accommodation
    Northam offers a wide range of hotels and motels.
  • Connectivity
    Mobile coverage is good on the highway but can be spotty in remote sections.
Safety Tips
  • Speeding
    Strict speed enforcement is in place on the Great Eastern Highway.
  • Fatigue
    Take a break every two hours; the drive is long.
  • Weather
    Be prepared for extreme heat in summer.
  • Emergency
    Carry extra water and a first aid kit for long-distance travel.
People Also Ask
  • Is Northam a big town?
    Yes, it is the largest town in the Avon Valley.
  • How long is the drive?
    It takes about 3 hours 15 minutes.
  • Are there trains?
    Yes, the AvonLink train connects Perth to Northam.
  • Is the road safe?
    Yes, the Great Eastern Highway is a major, well-maintained road.
  • Can I see the river?
    Yes, the Avon River is a central feature of the town.
Quick Info
  • From Metricup, Western Australia, Australia
  • To Northam, Western Australia, Australia
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

Spring for the Avon Descent and the blooming canola fields.

Things to Do in Northam
1
Avon River
Enjoy a walk along the river or a picnic in the park.
2
Hot Air Ballooning
Experience the Wheatbelt from above in a hot air balloon.
3
Northam Heritage Centre
Learn about the town's history and the early settlers.
4
Bilya Koort Boodja Centre
An indigenous cultural center showcasing the local Noongar culture.
Tags
Metricup to Northam Great Eastern Highway Northam travel Wheatbelt WA driving to Northam Metricup transport Western Australia road trip Avon River