Larapinta Trail

The Larapinta Trail is one of Australia’s great desert walks, a 223-kilometre trek along the spine of the West MacDonnell Ranges in the Northern Territory. This world-class trail offers an immersive journey through ancient landscapes, from rugged ridges and deep gorges to ochre-red cliffs and waterholes. The air is crisp, the stars are dazzling, and the silence is profound. Whether you tackle a day section or the full end-to-end adventure, the Larapinta Trail delivers a raw, spiritual connection to the outback.

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 leads to this iconic photo spot.
• Ormiston Gorge – A stunning natural amphitheatre with a permanent waterhole, perfect for a refreshing dip after a hike. The gorge’s layered quartzite walls are a geological marvel.
• Mount Sonder (Rwetyepme) – The trail’s highest point (1,380 m) and a classic dawn hike. Watching the sun rise over the MacDonnell Ranges from the summit is a bucket-list moment.
• Ellery Creek Big Hole – A deep, emerald waterhole surrounded by red cliffs, ideal for swimming and picnicking. It’s a popular spot for walkers to cool off.
• Glen Helen Gorge – A narrow gorge carved by the Finke River, with permanent waterholes that attract birdlife. The nearby Glen Helen Resort offers a cold beer and a place to rest.
• Serpentine Gorge – A quiet, serpent-like chasm with a lookout offering sweeping views over the ranges. The walk is short but rewarding.

Suggested Time to Spend

The full Larapinta Trail typically takes 12–16 days for experienced hikers, but most visitors sample it in shorter sections. For a rewarding taste, allow 3–5 days to hike from Alice Springs to Ormiston Gorge or to summit Mount Sonder. Day walks from the Stuart Highway are also possible – you can explore Standley Chasm or Ellery Creek in half a day. Plan to visit during the cooler months (April to September) when daytime temperatures are pleasant; summer heat is extreme.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Alice Springs – The gateway to the trail, with excellent museums, art galleries, and the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Stock up on supplies and enjoy a steak at the Overlander Steakhouse.
• West MacDonnell National Park – The trail runs through this park, but you can also drive the Larapinta Drive to access gorges and lookouts not on the trail.
• Kings Canyon (Watarrka National Park) – A spectacular sandstone canyon with the famous Rim Walk, about 3 hours’ drive west. Combine it with a visit to Uluru for a classic Red Centre itinerary.
• Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park – The iconic monolith and domes are a 4-hour drive from Alice Springs. Perfect for a multi-day road trip linking the Larapinta Trail with Australia’s most famous landmarks.

Please check official sources for current details.