Ellery Creek Bighole

Ellery Creek Bighole is one of the West MacDonnell Ranges’ most beloved waterholes, a deep, permanent pool carved into red quartzite cliffs. The water is startlingly clear and cool, a perfect antidote to the desert heat. Surrounded by ghost gums and spinifex, this spot feels like a hidden oasis. It's a popular stop on the Larapinta Drive, offering a quick dip, a short walk, and a profound sense of the ancient landscape.

Highlights & What to See

• Swimming in the Bighole: The deep, spring-fed waterhole is the main draw. The water is chilly but refreshing; the setting, with sheer rock walls and sandy banks, is idyllic. Lifeguards are not present, so swim with care.
• Dolomite Walk: A 2.5 km loop trail that climbs onto the cliffs above the waterhole, offering panoramic views of the surrounding ranges and the waterhole from above. It's a great way to appreciate the geology and spot birdlife.
• Picnicking and Relaxing: Shady picnic tables and barbecues are available. It's a prime spot for a leisurely lunch or simply lounging by the water.
• Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for black-footed rock-wallabies on the cliffs, and listen for the calls of zebra finches and honeyeaters in the trees.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 1–2 hours here, which allows for a swim, a short walk, and a picnic. If you're keen on the Dolomite Walk, add another 45 minutes. It's an ideal mid-morning or late-afternoon stop to break up a day of driving along the Larapinta Drive. Many travellers combine it with other nearby waterholes for a full day of exploration.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Ormiston Gorge – A stunning gorge with a permanent waterhole and excellent walking trails, about 30 km west.
• Glen Helen Gorge – Another iconic waterhole with a resort and camping, 40 km west, often used as a base for hiking.
• Serpentine Gorge – A narrow, dramatic gorge with a short walk to a lookout, 15 km east.
• Standley Chasm – A popular chasm with steep walls, best visited at midday when sunlight penetrates the narrow gap, 50 km east towards Alice Springs.
• Alice Springs Desert Park – An excellent introduction to the desert environment, located in Alice Springs, about 100 km east.

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