Larapinta Trail

A classic 223 km desert trek typically done in 12-16 days through the West MacDonnell Ranges.

Time to Hike: 12-16 days, covering about 223 km. Many hikers break the route into shorter day stages or section-hike if time is limited.

Best Time to Go: Dry season, typically May to September, when daytime temperatures are cooler and nights crisp.

Getting there: Trail access is from Alice Springs at the eastern end and from the Mount Sonder/Redbank Gorge area in the west near Mount Sonder. Public shuttles and private transfers run from Alice Springs to main trailheads.

Costs: Allow a modest budget for transport, food and supplies; self-supported hikers can manage on a lower budget while guided trips add cost. Check local park information for any fees and commercial operator charges.

Difficulty: Rugged rocky terrain with steep ascents and occasional scrambling, extreme sun and heat risk, and long remote sections with limited water. Moderate to hard fitness and desert navigation experience recommended.

West MacDonnell Ranges scenery dominates the route - red quartzite ridges, narrow gorges, permanent waterholes and broad desert views. Highlights include rocky pinnacles, long ridge walks and the classic sunrise or sunset vantage from Mount Sonder. The trail threads through iconic gorges such as Simpsons Gap and Ormiston Gorge and passes other notable features popular with day visitors.

There are no staffed alpine huts; the trail is serviced by a series of designated campsites and occasional water tanks or catchments at key points, but water is not guaranteed year round. That combination of sustained remote walking, varied geology and easy access from a regional centre is what makes the Larapinta notable among Australian long-distance treks.

• Section 1: Alice Springs Telegraph Station to Simpsons Gap (km 0-25) - A gentle introduction on well formed track through mulga and river gums, finishing with the sandstone walls and waterhole country of Simpsons Gap.
• Section 2: Simpsons Gap to Standley Chasm area (km 25-50) - Rolling ridgelines and dry creek crossings lead deeper into the West MacDonnell Ranges; Standley Chasm (a privately managed site) is a classic side stop if you are passing nearby.
• Section 3: Standley Chasm area to Ellery Creek Big Hole (km 50-80) - More defined ranges appear and the walking alternates between stony hills and sandy flats; Ellery Creek Big Hole is one of the most reliable swim spots on the wider route.
• Section 4: Ellery Creek Big Hole to Serpentine Gorge (km 80-110) - Rockier, more remote terrain with big views from quartzite ridges, then a descent into the gorge systems around Serpentine Gorge.
• Section 5: Serpentine Gorge to Ormiston Gorge (km 110-145) - A highlight section through the heart of Tjoritja - West MacDonnell National Park, with long ridge traverses and detours that can be added to visit lookouts and waterholes around Ormiston Gorge.
• Section 6: Ormiston Gorge to Finke River country (km 145-175) - Expansive, arid scenery and big sky walking as the trail trends west, with a change in feel as you approach the broad valleys around the Finke River.
• Section 7: Finke River country to Mount Sonder (km 175-205) - The most mountainous stretch: sustained climbs, rougher footpads and classic ridgeline walking, culminating in the ascent of Mount Sonder if you time it for sunrise or late afternoon.
• Section 8: Mount Sonder to Redbank Gorge (km 205-223) - A short but rugged finish that drops off the range to the trail end at Redbank Gorge, where many walkers celebrate with a swim if conditions allow.

The route is most walkable during the dry months of May to September when daytime temperatures are comfortable and nights cool. Summer months bring very high temperatures, making long day stages dangerous and increasing the risk of heatstroke.

There are no widespread hut booking systems for independent hikers; campsites are used on a first-come basis but guided trips and commercial operators book in advance and can provide water resupply. Expect strong sun, sudden heat, limited water points and occasional flooding in gorges after heavy rain; check current conditions with Northern Territory parks authorities before setting out.

Alice Springs is the nearest town and main transport hub, served by regular flights from major Australian cities. From Alice Springs you can obtain transfers, private shuttles or drive to the eastern trailheads; the western sections around Mount Sonder are best reached with a 4WD or booked transfer.

Most walkers start from the eastern end near Alice Springs and walk west toward Mount Sonder, though both directions are common. Arrange transport back to Alice Springs if you finish at the far end or plan a loop with a prearranged pickup.

There is no single “Larapinta Trail permit” for independent walkers, but camping is generally only allowed at designated trail camps and fees and/or bookings may apply depending on the campsite and season. Check current rules with Northern Territory Parks and Wildlife for Tjoritja - West MacDonnell National Park before you go, as arrangements for campsites, trailhead access and facilities can change.

If you are using commercial services (guided walks, food drops, vehicle support), operators may need separate permissions and you may need to book any private campgrounds or attractions you plan to use, such as Standley Chasm.

Most walkers sleep in a tent at the designated trail camps along the Larapinta Trail. Facilities are basic and vary by site, but you should plan for self sufficient camping, carry a suitable shelter and check water availability at camps before committing to your itinerary.

If you want more comfort, some sections can be walked with nights at established campgrounds and lodges reachable from the West MacDonnell access roads, particularly around Ormiston Gorge and at the western end near Redbank Gorge. In peak walking season, it is sensible to organise campsite bookings and any lodge nights ahead of time, especially if your dates are fixed.