Ellery Creek Big Hole

Ellery Creek Big Hole is a striking waterhole nestled in the West MacDonnell Ranges, about 90 km west of Alice Springs. Surrounded by rugged red cliffs and ghost gums, this permanent pool offers a refreshing escape from the desert heat and is a beloved spot for swimming, picnicking, and soaking in the stark beauty of the Central Australian landscape.

Highlights & What to See

• The Waterhole: A deep, cool pool fringed by river red gums and sheltered by sheer quartzite cliffs. It's one of the best natural swimming spots in the region, with clear water perfect for a dip on a hot day.
• Ellery Creek Walk: A 3 km loop trail that climbs the cliffs for panoramic views over the waterhole and the surrounding ranges. The walk passes ancient rock formations and offers excellent birdwatching opportunities.
• Dolomite Gorge: A short walk from the carpark leads to a narrow gorge with fascinating geological formations, including layered dolomite rocks that hint at the area's ancient seabed origins.
• Wildflowers and Wildlife: After rains, the area bursts with wildflowers. Keep an eye out for black-footed rock-wallabies, perenties (monitor lizards), and a variety of bird species such as zebra finches and honeyeaters.
• Sunset Views: The cliffs catch the last light beautifully, making this a serene spot to watch the day end over the MacDonnell Ranges.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 2–3 hours here, which allows time for a swim, a walk around the waterhole, and the short Ellery Creek loop. If you want to fully relax or explore the longer trails, plan for a half-day visit. It's a perfect stop on a self-drive itinerary along the Larapinta Trail or the West MacDonnell Ranges.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Ormiston Gorge & Pound: 25 km west – a spectacular gorge with a 7.5 km walk around the pound, plus excellent swimming and picnic spots.
• Serpentine Gorge: 15 km east – a narrow, shady gorge with a lookout over the ranges; often quieter than Ellery Creek.
• Standley Chasm: 50 km east – a deep cleft in the rock that is best visited at midday when sunlight illuminates the red walls.
• Alice Springs: 90 km east – the regional hub for supplies, accommodation, and cultural experiences, including the Royal Flying Doctor Service and the School of the Air.
• Glen Helen Gorge: 40 km west – a waterhole at the base of Mount Sonder, with a short walk and a nearby resort for food and fuel.

Please check official sources for current details.