Larapinta Drive

Larapinta Drive is the scenic 230-kilometre route that slices through the heart of the West MacDonnell Ranges, connecting Alice Springs to the rugged western frontier of the Red Centre. This sealed road offers a spectacular self-drive journey through ancient gorges, ochre-red cliffs, and desert oases, with turn-offs to some of the Northern Territory's most iconic outback experiences. It's the perfect way to immerse yourself in the region's Indigenous heritage, geology, and vast, silent landscapes.

Highlights & What to See

• Simpsons Gap – A dramatic gap in the range with a permanent waterhole, home to black-footed rock-wallabies. Best visited at sunrise or sunset for the glowing rock colours.
• Standley Chasm (Angkerle Atwatye) – A narrow, sheer-walled chasm that comes alive when the midday sun illuminates its red walls. It's privately owned by the local Aboriginal community and offers cultural tours.
• Ochre Pits – An ancient quarry where Aboriginal people have sourced ochre for ceremonies for thousands of years. The multi-hued cliffs are a photographer's dream.
• Ormiston Gorge – A stunning natural amphitheatre with a permanent waterhole, ideal for swimming and short walks. The 7.5km Pound Walk offers superb views.
• Glen Helen Gorge – Where the range meets the Finke River; a peaceful spot for a picnic and a dip, with sheer cliffs reflecting in the water.
• Tnorala (Gosses Bluff) Conservation Reserve – A comet-impact crater formed 142 million years ago, now a sacred site for the Western Arrernte people. The drive-in track is rough but rewarding.
• Redbank Gorge – The westernmost gorge, known for its permanent waterhole and the challenging Mount Sonder walk – one of the best outback hikes.

Suggested Time to Spend

To truly appreciate Larapinta Drive, allow a full day (10–12 hours) for a round trip from Alice Springs, stopping at the main gorges and taking short walks. For a more immersive experience, plan for two days: stay overnight at Glen Helen Resort or camp at Ormiston Gorge, and tackle a longer hike like the Mount Sonder summit. The drive can be done in either direction, but starting early from Alice Springs avoids the heat and delivers the best light for photography.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Alice Springs – The gateway town with the Royal Flying Doctor Service, School of the Air, and the Araluen Cultural Precinct.
• West MacDonnell Ranges (various walks and waterholes) – Beyond the drive, explore Ellery Creek Big Hole and Serpentine Gorge for more swimming and hiking.
• Namatjira Drive – A loop off Larapinta Drive that takes you past the historic Glen Helen Homestead and through the rugged country that inspired painter Albert Namatjira.
• Finke River – One of the world's oldest rivers; you can explore its dry bed on 4WD tracks near Glen Helen.
• Kings Canyon (Watarrka National Park) – A 300km drive west via the Mereenie Loop (4WD recommended) for the famous Rim Walk.
• Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park – A longer detour (about 450km) for the ultimate Red Centre experience, best combined with a multi-day itinerary.

Please check official sources for current details.