Larapinta Trail 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.

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.

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.