Larapinta Drive

Larapinta Drive is the iconic 225-kilometre sealed road that links Alice Springs with the West MacDonnell Ranges, offering a stunning self-drive journey through the heart of the Red Centre. This route is not just a means of transport but a destination in itself, with lookouts, walking trails, and cultural sites that showcase the ancient landscapes and rich Indigenous heritage of the region.

Highlights & What to See

• Simpsons Gap: A dramatic gap in the ranges with a permanent waterhole, perfect for a short walk and spotting black-footed rock wallabies at dusk.
• Standley Chasm: A narrow chasm with sheer red walls that glow at midday. A short, easy walk leads to the chasm floor.
• Ochre Pits: Ancient ochre deposits used by Arrernte people for ceremonial body painting. Interpretive signs explain the cultural significance.
• Ellery Creek Big Hole: A deep, permanent waterhole surrounded by red cliffs – a great spot for a swim and a picnic.
• Serpentine Gorge: A quieter gorge with a lookout walk offering panoramic views over the ranges.
• Glen Helen Gorge: The western end of the drive, featuring a permanent waterhole and the Glen Helen Resort for refreshments.
• Inarlanga Pass: A scenic lookout on the way, with views over the Finke River and the surrounding ranges.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan at least a full day to drive the entire Larapinta Drive from Alice Springs to Glen Helen and back, with stops at the main gorges and lookouts. For a more relaxed pace, allow two days: drive out one day, stay overnight at Glen Helen Resort, and return the next day, taking time for longer walks like the Serpentine Gorge Lookout or the Ellery Creek walk. If you're short on time, focus on the eastern section from Alice Springs to Standley Chasm (about 50 km) and return, which can be done in a half-day.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Alice Springs: Start or end your journey in this outback town, with its excellent museums, art galleries, and the famous Alice Springs Desert Park.
• West MacDonnell Ranges: Continue beyond Glen Helen on unsealed roads to explore the more remote gorges like Redbank Gorge and Ormiston Gorge.
• Kings Canyon: About 300 km west via the Red Centre Way, this spectacular canyon offers a challenging rim walk and stunning views.
• Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park: A longer drive (about 450 km) via the Lasseter Highway, but a must-see for the iconic monolith and domes.
• Finke Gorge National Park: South of Alice Springs, this park features the historic Aboriginal site of Palm Valley and 4WD tracks.

Please check official sources for current details.