Larapinta Trail

Highlights:

  • Dramatic Standley Chasm

  • Views atop Mount Sonder

  • Ormiston & Serpentine Gorges

  • Counts Point Lookout

Brief:

⏱ Duration: 6 - 15 Days
🗺 Distance: 70 - 223 km
⛰ Difficulty: Moderate - Hard
🗓 Best Time: May - Aug
🛏 Accomm: Camping or Lodge

 
 
 
 
 

Walk Overview

The Larapinta Trail in the West MacDonnell (Tjoritja) National Park is considered to be one of the best desert treks in the world. It introduces walkers to the grandeur of Australia’s mighty red centre with its dazzling blue skies, vast landscape and striking geological formations. There are many highlights including Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm, Ormiston Gorge, Ellery Creek Big Hole, Mount Sonder, the Ochre Pits and indigenous rock art.

Covering a massive 223 kilometres, the walk is divided into 12 sections. It starts in the east at the Alice Springs telegraph station and finishes spectacularly at Mount Sonder in the west. In between, the trail traverses sheltered rock gorges and the rugged mountain ridgelines of the West MacDonnell Ranges. Fortunately, there are also stunning waterfalls and swimming rockpools to combat the heat.

Along the way, the trail showcases a diversity of birdlife, native wildlife and over 600 species of flora. Wonderful memories are made thanks to the breathtaking beauty of the wilderness sunrises and sunsets. Sleeping under a canopy of exploding stars is an unforgettable experience.

The trail is challenging due to its length, the hot desert climate, the rocky tracks as well as the frequent ascents and descents. Both guided and self-guided tours are available for the Larapinta Trail. Shortened versions of the trail are also available, concentrating on the highlights. The guided options range between 3 and 14 days whilst the self-guided trips range between 6 and 12 days.

It is also possible to walk the Larapinta Trail independently, although very careful planning and provisioning is necessary. Most of the trail is well signposted with campsites and trailheads at each section plus vital water tanks at each trailhead. Most campsites have basic facilities such as shelters, toilets and BBQs.

Further information:

  • For more information on walking in the West MacDonnell Ranges, click the button below.

  • For assistance in choosing a walking holiday in the West MacDonnell Ranges, click the button below.