The Larapinta Trail

Gaining an international reputation, this world class constructed and well marked walking track winds through the heart of the West MacDonnell Ranges exposing its remote and inner secrets to the bushwalker. Construction is staged and when completed, the trail will extend 220 km from Alice Springs Telegraph Station to Mount Razorback.

Sections 1,2,3 and 8 - all overnight walks - are open for an experience of a lifetime. Intending walkers must register with the Conservation Commission to obtain the necessary maps and safety information.

The rocks of the MacDonnell Ranges have been buckled by earth movements and sculpted by running water to produce some of Central Australia's wildest and most rugged scenery.

This is a sparsely-populated area of high peaks and deep gorges, with extraordinary richness in its colours. Vehicle access is limited, thus remains largely the realm of the bushwalker.

Designed with minimal facilities for use by experienced walkers, the Larapinta Trail crosses an arid landscape steeped in history and rich in contrasts. Its hilltops offer magnificent views spiced by a powerful sense of isolation and space. In these timeless surrounds of ancient hills and valleys it is easy to believe that civilisation is light years away.

The Trail, which is divided into sections of 10-25 km heading westwards from Alice Springs, offers a marked route that encourages walkers to explore some of the Ranges' more remote areas.

As well as being scenically attractive, these sheltered and wet areas act as refuges for the plants and animals that are poorly adapted to dry conditions.

For many species they mean survival during the long droughts that have dominated the local climate over thousands of years. They are also important resource areas for Aboriginal people.

For more information on the Larapinta Trail explore the links on the following page.

This information was kindly supplied by:

The Conservation Commission of the Northern Territory
PO Box 496
Palmerston
NT 0831.

Safety Notes
Caring For The Environment
Plants Along The Larapinta Trail
Trail Animals
Aboriginal Traditions
The Coming Of The Europeans
Geological History
Section 1: Telegraph Station to Simpsons Gap
Section 1: The Route
Section 2: Simpsons Gap to Jay Creek
Section 2: The Route
Section 3: Jay Creek to Standley Chasm
Section 3: The Route
Section 8: Serpentine Gorge to Inarlanga Pass
Section 8: The Route

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