Simpsons Gap & Standley Chasm
The two most accessible highlights of the West MacDonnells — a broad iconic gap with a waterhole and rock wallabies, and a slender chasm that glows red at midday.
Simpsons Gap & Standley Chasm
If you have only half a day for the ranges, make it these two. Simpsons Gap is a broad, iconic gap a short drive west of town, with a flat walk to a permanent waterhole and black-footed rock wallabies on the rocks at dawn and dusk. Standley Chasm is its dramatic opposite: a slender, high-walled chasm that glows fiery red when the midday sun reaches in. Both are among the most accessible highlights of the West MacDonnell Ranges.
What to Expect
A Broad, Iconic Gap
A flat walk to a permanent waterhole, a short drive west of Alice Springs.
Rock Wallabies
Watch for black-footed rock wallabies on the rocks at dawn and dusk.
Fiery Midday Walls
A narrow chasm that glows deep red when the high sun strikes the quartzite.
Short Walks
Both are short walks that suit most visitors, including families.
Visiting Tips
- Time Standley Chasm for the middle of the day, when it glows red
- Visit Simpsons Gap at dawn or dusk for rock wallabies and soft light
- Standley Chasm charges its own entry and a Parks Pass may apply elsewhere — check current details
- Carry water and wear sturdy shoes for the chasm walk
- Great for families — see Alice Springs with kids
The Gaps — FAQ
What are Simpsons Gap and Standley Chasm?
They are two of the most accessible and beautiful gaps in the West MacDonnell Ranges, an easy drive west of Alice Springs. Simpsons Gap is a broad, iconic gap; Standley Chasm is a slender chasm whose walls glow fiery red at midday.
When does Standley Chasm glow red?
Around the middle of the day, when the high sun reaches into the narrow chasm and lights up the quartzite walls. It is the classic time to visit, though it can be busy — check current opening details.
Can you see wildlife at Simpsons Gap?
Yes — Simpsons Gap is a good spot to see black-footed rock wallabies, especially around dawn and dusk when they come out on the rocks near the waterhole.
Are the walks easy?
Both are short and relatively easy: a flat stroll to the Simpsons Gap waterhole, and a rockier walk into Standley Chasm. They suit most visitors, including families — see Alice Springs with kids.
Do you need a Parks Pass or fee?
Simpsons Gap lies within national park land where a Parks Pass may be required, and Standley Chasm charges its own entry. Fees and hours change, so check current details before you go.
Alice Springs, Planned Around You
The MacDonnell Ranges and their gorges and waterholes, the Desert Park and the Telegraph Station, and the road south to Uluru — with the driving and bookings handled by the family that’s toured Australia since 1974.
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