Larapinta Trail

Stretching 223 kilometres along the spine of the West MacDonnell Ranges, the Larapinta Trail is one of Australia's great desert walks. This world-class trek winds through ancient quartzite ridges, ghost-gum lined creeks, and ochre-red gorges, offering an immersive journey into Arrernte country. Whether you tackle a section or the full end-to-end, you'll be rewarded with vast outback skies, cultural stories, and a profound sense of solitude.

Highlights & What to See

• Standley Chasm: A dramatic, narrow cleft in the rock that glows fiery orange at midday – a short walk from the car park makes it an easy introduction.
• Ormiston Pound: A natural amphitheatre ringed by rugged cliffs; the 8.5 km Pound Walk loops through spinifex and river red gums, with a refreshing waterhole at the end.
• Mount Sonder: The trail's grand finale (or start), this 1,380 m peak is a classic sunrise hike. The 15.8 km return climb from Redbank Gorge is strenuous but the 360-degree views are unforgettable.
• Glen Helen Gorge: A permanent waterhole at the base of rust-coloured cliffs – perfect for a swim after a hot day's walk.
• Ellery Creek Big Hole: A deep, cool swimming hole framed by towering dolomite walls; it's a popular spot for walkers to soak trail-weary legs.
• Serpentine Gorge: A serene, narrow gorge with a lookout that offers sweeping views over the range – keep an eye out for black-footed rock wallabies.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most walkers allow 12–16 days to complete the full Larapinta Trail, but shorter sections are equally rewarding. A day trip can cover the highlights near Alice Springs (Standley Chasm, Simpsons Gap), while a 3–5 day itinerary lets you tackle the best central sections like Ormiston Pound and Mount Sonder. Self-drive travellers can base themselves at Glen Helen Resort or camp at designated sites along the trail. Plan your walk during the cooler months (April to September) when daytime temperatures are manageable.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Alice Springs: The gateway town for supplies, gear hire, and a dose of outback culture before or after your trek.
• West MacDonnell National Park: Drive the Larapinta Drive to access trailheads, gorges, and scenic lookouts – many are just a short walk from the road.
• Kings Canyon: A stunning sandstone canyon in Watarrka National Park, about 3 hours' drive southwest – combine with the Larapinta for a classic Red Centre itinerary.
• Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park: A 4.5-hour drive from Alice Springs; pair the trail with the iconic monolith and domes for a complete outback experience.
• Finke Gorge National Park: Home to the ancient palm-filled Palm Valley, accessible by 4WD – a wild detour off the main highway.

Please check official sources for current details.