Emily Gap

Emily Gap, known to the Eastern Arrernte people as Anthwerrke, is a striking gorge and permanent waterhole just 10 km east of Alice Springs. This sacred site is part of the Caterpillar Dreaming story, with vivid ochre paintings on the rock walls depicting the Yeperenye caterpillars. The gap offers a serene escape into the red centre's ancient landscape, with a short walking track leading to the waterhole and a shaded picnic area.

Highlights & What to See

• Ochre rock art – View the well-preserved Dreaming paintings of the Yeperenye caterpillars on the quartzite walls, best seen in the soft morning or late-afternoon light.
• Permanent waterhole – A tranquil spot for birdwatching and soaking in the stark beauty of the gorge, especially after rain.
• Emily Gap Walking Track – An easy 1 km return walk along the dry creek bed to the waterhole, with interpretive signs about Arrernte culture.
• Picnic facilities – Shaded tables and BBQs make it a perfect stop for a peaceful lunch away from town.
• Sunset views – The gap's red walls glow brilliantly at dusk, ideal for photography.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow 1–2 hours for a relaxed visit: 20 minutes to walk the track, time to study the rock art and enjoy the waterhole, plus a picnic. Combine with a half-day trip to the nearby East MacDonnell Ranges for a fuller exploration of the region's gorges and cultural sites.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Alice Springs – 10 km west, the town offers the Royal Flying Doctor Service Museum, Alice Springs Desert Park, and the Telegraph Station Historical Reserve.
• Trephina Gorge Nature Park – 50 km east, featuring dramatic red cliffs, a seasonal creek, and walking trails through river red gums.
• N'Dhala Gorge Nature Park – 60 km east, home to over 5,000 rock carvings and engravings, one of the most significant Aboriginal art sites in Central Australia.
• Corroboree Rock Conservation Reserve – 40 km east, a dolomite outcrop with cultural significance and a short interpretive walk.
• John Hayes Rockhole – 80 km east, a scenic waterhole and picnic spot in the East MacDonnell Ranges.

Please check official sources for current details.