Simpsons Gap

Simpsons Gap, known as Rungutjirpa, is a prominent natural gap in the West MacDonnell Ranges within Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park, about 18 kilometres west of Alice Springs in the Northern Territory. The gap features towering red cliffs, a permanent waterhole and river red gums. It is notable for its scenic geology, resident black-footed rock-wallabies and cultural importance to the Arrernte people, and is a key stop on Larapinta Drive.

Visitors can expect a dramatic gap carved through the West MacDonnell Ranges with sheer cliffs rising on either side of a sandy creek bed and a semi-permanent waterhole at the base. The setting includes river red gums, ghost gums and spinifex-covered slopes. A short sealed walking track leads from the car park to the gap, with longer trails connecting to the Larapinta Trail. Black-footed rock-wallabies are often seen in the early morning or late afternoon around the rocky slopes.