Redbank Gorge

Redbank Gorge is a dramatic chasm carved through the quartzite of the West MacDonnell Ranges, offering one of the Northern Territory's most rewarding outback experiences. The deep, narrow gorge is a stunning sight, with sheer walls rising up to 80 metres and a permanent waterhole that invites swimming and paddling. It's a place of profound silence and ancient beauty, where the red rock contrasts vividly with the blue sky and the cool, dark water.

Highlights & What to See

• Float through the gorge – Bring an inflatable tube or a small inflatable mattress to drift silently through the narrow, deep waterway between towering cliffs. This is the quintessential Redbank Gorge experience.
• Walk the Redbank Gorge Trail – A 3.5 km return walk (1.5–2 hours) that follows the rocky creek bed to the gorge entrance. The path is rugged and requires some scrambling, but the reward is the dramatic amphitheatre of rock.
• Mount Sonder lookout – A short side track from the gorge offers panoramic views over the West MacDonnell Ranges. It's a great spot for sunrise or sunset photography.
• Spot wildlife – Keep an eye out for black-footed rock wallabies, perentie lizards, and a variety of birds, including the majestic wedge-tailed eagle.
• Swim in the waterhole – The permanent pool at the gorge entrance is a refreshing spot for a dip, especially after a walk.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate a full half-day for Redbank Gorge, including the walk and time to float or swim. If you're short on time, a 1–2 hour visit allows for a quick walk to the gorge entrance and a swim. For a more immersive experience, consider arriving early in the morning to enjoy the gorge in solitude, then combine with a picnic lunch. The gorge is also a fantastic stop on a multi-day self-drive itinerary through the West MacDonnell Ranges.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Ormiston Gorge – Just 25 km east, this is the most accessible and popular gorge in the West MacDonnells, with a stunning waterhole and excellent walking trails.
• Glen Helen Gorge – A beautiful gorge with a permanent waterhole, located about 40 km east of Redbank. It's a great spot for a swim and offers a roadhouse for supplies.
• Ellery Creek Big Hole – A large, deep waterhole surrounded by red cliffs, perfect for swimming and picnicking, about 100 km east.
• Serpentine Gorge – A narrow, secluded gorge with a short walk to a lookout, located between Ellery Creek and Ormiston.
• Standley Chasm – A spectacular narrow chasm with high walls, best visited at midday when sunlight penetrates the floor. It's about 130 km east, closer to Alice Springs.

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