Ellery Creek Big Hole

About 90 kilometres west of Alice Springs, Ellery Creek Big Hole is one of the West MacDonnell Ranges' most beloved swimming holes. A permanent waterhole flanked by towering red cliffs and ghost gums, it's a surreal oasis in the arid outback – perfect for a refreshing dip after a hike or drive through the range. The surrounding area is rich with geological history, and the waterhole itself is a sacred site for the Arrernte people, so treat it with respect.

Highlights & What to See

• Swimming at the Big Hole: Plunge into the deep, cool waterhole – it's one of the best natural swims in the Red Centre, and on a hot day it's bliss. The water is clear and refreshing, bounded by sheer rock walls.
• Ellery Creek Walk: A 3.5-kilometre loop trail that climbs the dolomite ridge for panoramic views of the waterhole and the surrounding amphitheatre of hills. The geology here is fascinating – look for ancient stromatolite fossils in the rock.
• Picnicking & Birdwatching: Shady picnic tables under ghost gums make this a great spot for lunch. Zebra finches, honeyeaters and even the occasional peregrine falcon can be seen.
• Stargazing: The Red Centre's dark skies are phenomenal, and Ellery Creek is far from any light pollution. After sunset, the Milky Way stretches overhead – bring a blanket and a torch.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 1–2 hours here, combining a swim with the short walk. If you're keen to relax and soak up the atmosphere, you could easily stretch it to half a day – pack a picnic and a book. It's a perfect midday stop on a self-drive along the West MacDonnell Ranges, especially if you're basing yourself in Alice Springs or Glen Helen.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Ormiston Gorge & Pound: A spectacular gorge with a permanent waterhole and a 7.5-kilometre circuit walk – about 20 minutes west of Ellery Creek.
• Serpentine Gorge: A narrow, shady gorge with a short walk to a lookout; great for spotting wallabies at dusk.
• Standley Chasm: A dramatic, narrow chasm where the sun hits the walls at midday – book ahead for the best light.
• Alice Springs: The region's hub, with the Royal Flying Doctor Service, the School of the Air, and the Desert Park – all worth a day.
• Glen Helen Gorge: The western end of the West MacDonnell loop, with a lovely waterhole and a pub for a cold beer.

Please check official sources for current details.