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 mountain ranges, chasms, and dry riverbeds, offering an immersive journey into the heart of Arrernte country. The trail is divided into 12 sections, each with its own character, from the dramatic ridges of Mount Sonder to the cool waterholes of Ormiston Gorge. Whether you tackle a day walk or the full end-to-end, the Larapinta delivers rugged beauty, profound silence, and star-filled nights.

Highlights & What to See

• Mount Sonder (Section 10–12): The iconic summit and finish point; catch sunrise from the top for panoramic views over the ranges.
• Ormiston Gorge (Section 8): A permanent waterhole framed by red cliffs – perfect for a swim or a short gorge walk.
• Simpsons Gap (Section 1): A dramatic cleft in the range with a permanent waterhole; black-footed rock wallabies often appear at dusk.
• Standley Chasm (Section 1): A narrow, sheer-walled chasm that glows fiery orange when the sun hits directly (best around midday).
• Ellery Creek Big Hole (Section 3): A deep, cool waterhole surrounded by red dolomite cliffs – a favourite spot for a dip.
• Glen Helen Gorge (Section 7): A stunning gorge where the Finke River cuts through the range; access to the trailhead for sections 7–10.
• Aboriginal Rock Art: Several sites along the trail, particularly near Alice Springs and in the ranges, show evidence of Arrernte occupation for over 20,000 years.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most walkers allocate 12–16 days for a full end-to-end trek, covering 15–20 km per day. If you're short on time, focus on the central sections (3–8) which offer the most varied scenery and permanent waterholes, or do a 3–5 day highlights walk from Ormiston Gorge to Mount Sonder. Day walks from Alice Springs to Simpsons Gap or Standley Chasm can be done in a few hours. The best walking season is April to September when temperatures are mild; avoid the summer heat (October–March).

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Alice Springs – The trail's eastern gateway; stock up on supplies, visit the Desert Park, and explore the town's Aboriginal art galleries.
• West MacDonnell National Park – The entire trail lies within this park; drive the Larapinta Drive to access trailheads, gorges, and scenic lookouts.
• Finke Gorge National Park – South of Alice Springs, home to the ancient Palm Valley with its unique red cabbage palms.
• Kings Canyon (Watarrka National Park) – A 3-hour drive from Alice Springs; combine the Rim Walk with your Larapinta experience for a different desert perspective.
• Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park – Further southwest; a road trip from Alice Springs to Uluru is a classic Red Centre itinerary, with the Larapinta as the active highlight.

Please check official sources for current details.