04/09/2026
FUN FACT FRIDAY!
Did you know one of Australia’s great long-distance walks runs for more than 230 through the heart of Central Australia?
The Larapinta Trail, NT follows the ridges of the spectacular Tjoritja / West MacDonnell Ranges, starting at the historic Alice Springs Telegraph Station and finishing at Mount Sonder (and Redbank Gorge).
The trail is divided into 12 sections, so while serious hikers can tackle the entire route, you don’t have to walk all 230 km to experience it. Many sections can be walked individually, with highlights along the way including Ellery Creek Big Hole, Ormiston Gorge and Redbank Gorge.
Some sections are relatively manageable day walks, while others involve long days, steep climbs, rugged ridgelines and carrying enough water to camp overnight.
The recommended walking season is generally April to September, when temperatures are cooler — although winter nights out there can get seriously cold.
We’ve explored quite a bit of the West Macs now, but walking a section of the Larapinta would certainly be a different way to see them!
Would you tackle the full 230km, or are you more of a “nice day walk and back to the caravan for a cold drink” kind of person? 😜
