About Ochre Pits
The Ochre Pits is a natural ochre deposit in Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park, about 110 kilometres west of Alice Springs on Namatjira Drive. The site features steep cliffs with vivid layers of white, yellow and red ochre formed over millions of years. Traditionally quarried by Western Arrernte people for ceremonial use, it is an important cultural site with a viewing platform and interpretive signs for visitors.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a short walk from a sealed car park to a fenced viewing platform overlooking tall, stratified cliffs in shades of white, yellow, orange and red. The site is in an arid range landscape with interpretive signage explaining the geological formation and Aboriginal cultural use of ochre. There are no extensive trails; the experience is focused on viewing, photography and reading information panels.
Key highlights
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Vivid multi-coloured ochre cliffs with white, yellow and red layers
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Important Aboriginal cultural site traditionally used for ochre collection
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Accessible viewing platform with interpretive signage
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Photogenic geological formation within Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park
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Convenient stop along Namatjira Drive scenic route west of Alice Springs