Ellery Creek Bighole

Ellery Creek Bighole is one of the West MacDonnell Ranges' most inviting waterholes, a deep, permanent pool framed by towering red cliffs and ghost gums. The contrast of cool, clear water against the desert's fiery hues is quintessential Central Australia. A short walk leads to this oasis, where the silence is broken only by birdsong and the occasional splash.

Highlights & What to See

• Swimming in the Bighole – The deep, sandy-bottomed waterhole is perfect for a refreshing dip after a walk. The water is usually cool and clear, offering a sublime escape from the heat.
• Ellery Creek Gap Walk – A 3 km loop that follows the creek through a narrow gap in the range, passing ancient river red gums and offering views of the surrounding escarpments.
• Dolomite Walk – An easy 1.5 km loop showcasing the unique dolomite rock formations and their role in the region's geology.
• Picnic by the Waterhole – Shaded picnic tables and barbecues make this a perfect spot for a lazy lunch, with the red cliffs as your backdrop.
• Birdwatching – Spot zebra finches, honeyeaters, and the occasional peregrine falcon swooping over the cliffs.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 1.5–2 hours here, combining a swim with one of the short walks. If you want to do both the Ellery Creek Gap Walk and the Dolomite Walk, allow 3 hours. It's an ideal midday break on a drive along the West MacDonnell Ranges, especially during the hotter months when the waterhole is a welcome relief.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Ormiston Gorge & Pound – A spectacular gorge with a permanent waterhole and a challenging 7.5 km walk around the pound.
• Serpentine Gorge – A narrower, more intimate gorge with a short walk to a lookout over the ranges.
• Standley Chasm – A dramatic chasm that glows at midday; best visited around noon for the light show.
• Glen Helen Gorge – A deep gorge at the western end of the range, often with water and a historic homestead.
• Alice Springs Desert Park – 90 minutes east; a world-class wildlife park showcasing desert ecosystems.

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