About Larapinta Trail
The Larapinta Trail is a 223-kilometre long-distance walking trail in Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park, west of Alice Springs in the Northern Territory. Extending from the Alice Springs Telegraph Station to Mount Sonder, it traverses the West MacDonnell Ranges across 12 sections. Notable for its arid mountain landscapes, gorges, waterholes and Aboriginal cultural sites, it is regarded as one of Australia's premier desert trekking experiences.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a marked long-distance desert hiking trail through the rugged West MacDonnell Ranges. The route passes spinifex-covered ridges, rocky gorges, sandy creek beds, permanent waterholes and high lookouts. Trailheads and 12 sections allow day walks or multi-day through-hikes with designated campsites, signage and shelter sheds. Highlights include Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm, Ormiston Gorge, Ellery Creek Big Hole and the ascent of Mount Sonder for sunrise views.
Key highlights
- 01
223 km long-distance trail divided into 12 sections from Alice Springs Telegraph Station to Mount Sonder
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Traverses Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park with gorges, ridges and waterholes
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Standley Chasm (Angkerle Atwatye) and Simpsons Gap (Rungutjirpa)
- 04
Ormiston Gorge and Ellery Creek Big Hole swimming and camping areas