West MacDonnell Ranges
West of Alice Springs, the ancient Tjoritja ridgeline holds a string of red-rock gorges and cold, spring-fed waterholes — the scenic heart of the Red Centre.
The West MacDonnell Ranges
Stretching west of Alice Springs, the West MacDonnell Ranges — Tjoritja to the Arrernte — are among the great landscapes of the Red Centre. Along the ancient, weathered ridgeline lies a string of red-rock gorges and waterholes: Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm, Ellery Creek Big Hole, Ormiston Gorge, Glen Helen and Redbank Gorge. Some hold cold, spring-fed swimming holes; all reward an early start. This is also the country the Larapinta Trail follows.
Gorges & Waterholes
Simpsons Gap
An easy, iconic gap a short drive from town, good for black-footed rock wallabies at dusk.
Standley Chasm
A slender chasm that glows fiery red when the midday sun strikes its walls.
Ellery Creek Big Hole
A deep, cold waterhole ringed by cliffs — a favourite (chilly) swim.
Ormiston Gorge
A high-walled gorge with a waterhole and a superb Pound loop walk.
Glen Helen & Redbank
Glen Helen on the Finke River, and the narrow, cold slot of Redbank Gorge.
Larapinta Ridgelines
The West Macs carry the world-class Larapinta Trail along their spine.
Visiting Tips
- Start early — mornings are cooler and the gorge light is best
- Carry plenty of water; the desert is dry and shade is limited
- A Parks Pass is needed for many sites — check current details
- Swimming waterholes are spring-fed and can be very cold
- Prefer to be driven? See our West MacDonnell Ranges tour
West MacDonnells — FAQ
What is there to see in the West MacDonnell Ranges?
A string of dramatic gorges and waterholes west of Alice Springs — Simpsons Gap and Standley Chasm, Ellery Creek Big Hole, Ormiston Gorge, Glen Helen and Redbank Gorge — set along the ancient ridgeline the Arrernte know as Tjoritja.
Can you swim in the West MacDonnells?
Yes — there is swimming at several waterholes such as Ellery Creek Big Hole, Ormiston Gorge and Redbank Gorge. The water is spring-fed and can be very cold even in warm weather, so take care and check current conditions.
Do you need a Parks Pass?
Many sites sit within Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park and a Parks Pass is required for a number of them. Fees and conditions change, so check current details before you go.
How long do you need for the West MacDonnell Ranges?
You can sample the closest gaps in half a day, but a full day (or more) lets you reach Ellery Creek, Ormiston Gorge and Glen Helen. Serious walkers tackle stages of the Larapinta Trail along the same ranges.
When is the best time to visit?
The cooler months (roughly April to September) are far more comfortable than the fierce heat of summer. See the best time to visit.
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.
Call 0409 661 342 Plan My Trip — Free Enquiry