Ellery Creek Big Hole

Ellery Creek Big Hole is a stunning natural waterhole set amid the rugged red gorges of the West MacDonnell Ranges, roughly 90 kilometres west of Alice Springs. Sheltered by towering cliffs and shaded by river red gums, this permanent waterhole is one of the most beloved swimming spots in the Red Centre. The surrounding area is rich in Arrernte cultural significance, and the site offers excellent opportunities for bushwalking, birdwatching, and cooling off after a day of exploration.

Highlights & What to See

• Swim in the big hole: Plunge into the deep, clear waterhole – the water is often surprisingly cool, a welcome relief from the desert heat.
• Ellery Creek Gap Walk: A 3-kilometre loop trail that leads you through the gap between the quartzite ridges, passing ancient rock formations and offering panoramic views over the waterhole.
• Dolomite Walk: A shorter, easy stroll that reveals the area’s geology, including white dolomite rocks that contrast with the red cliffs.
• Picnic and relax: Well-maintained picnic tables and shade shelters make it an ideal spot for a leisurely lunch surrounded by dramatic scenery.
• Birdwatching: Look for zebra finches, spinifex pigeons, and the rare black-footed rock-wallaby that sometimes appears on the cliffs.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 1–2 hours at Ellery Creek Big Hole, which is enough for a refreshing swim and a short walk. If you plan to do the full Ellery Creek Gap Walk, allow about 1.5 hours more. The waterhole is a perfect midday stop on a day trip from Alice Springs along Larapinta Drive. For a more relaxed visit, pack a picnic and stay for a couple of hours, especially in the late afternoon when the light turns the cliffs golden.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Ormiston Gorge & Pound – A spectacular gorge with a permanent waterhole and excellent walking trails, about 30 minutes west.
• Serpentine Gorge – A narrow, shady gorge with a short walk to a lookout, just 10 minutes east.
• Standley Chasm – A dramatic cleft in the range with a short walk to the chasm floor, best visited at midday when sunlight illuminates the walls.
• Alice Springs – The regional hub, offering cultural attractions like the Alice Springs Desert Park and the Royal Flying Doctor Service museum.
• West MacDonnell Ranges – The entire range is dotted with gorges, waterholes, and scenic lookouts; a full-day drive from Alice Springs to Glen Helen Gorge covers many highlights.

Please check official sources for current details.