Alice Springs and Its Surroundings
A rugged backdrop to the otherwise flat countryside surrounding Alice Springs, the glorious MacDonnell Ranges stretch for more than 100km to the west and east of the town. Although the East MacDonnell Range has many notable features, its western counterpart has most of the region’s famous attractions, including Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm and Ormiston Gorge.
First Highlights: Simpsons Gap and Standley Chasm
Just a short trip from Alice Springs is Simpsons Gap. Standley Chasm, another highlight, showcases the dramatic beauty of the West MacDonnell Ranges. These popular sites are great places to see the rugged red-orange cliffs for which this landscape is renowned. (An entry fee applies at Standley Chasm, which is privately operated.)
Cooling Off at Ellery Creek Big Hole
Further west is a great spot for a cooling swim at Ellery Creek Big Hole, then Serpentine Gorge which is a perfect location to stop for a picnic. Just a short drive away is the Ochre Pits site, which is another intriguing place to visit with its bands of yellow, white and red.
The Gorgeous Gorges Continue: Ormiston Gorge
The gorges just keep coming as you continue west, with the towering walls of Ormiston Gorge. Its waterhole is a very popular spot to enjoy a swim.
Respite at Glen Helen Lodge
There are some welcome facilities at Glen Helen Lodge, which offers accommodation and food. It’s also home to Glen Helen Gorge. This is another great location to get some respite from the heat with a dip in the waterhole.
Westernmost Wonders: Redbank Gorge
At the westernmost point of the West MacDonnell Range is Redbank Gorge, at the base of Mt Sonder. It’s a bit of a walk to the waterhole, but it is a great spot to cool off with a swim after tackling some of the walks.
Panoramic Views from Tylers Pass Lookout
Although Redbank Gorge is often the last point visited in Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park, Tylers Pass Lookout is also worth a stop. The lookout provides panoramic views over the landscape, including Gosse Bluff crater.
The Adventurous Larapinta Trail
Although these highlights of the West MacDonnell Ranges can all be easily explored by car, an amazing way to experience the less accessible sites is along the 223km Larapinta Trail. Even if you don’t take on the entire trail, there are plenty of shorter sections to try.
