Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park

Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park stretches for 161km west of Alice Springs. Explore and appreciate the scenic beauty and history of the area on foot, swim in a waterhole, or pitch a tent for a longer stay.

Take a dip in the cold waters of one the park’s permanent water holes. The larger water holes include Ellery Creek Big Hole, Ormiston Gorge, Redbank Gorge and Glen Helen Gorge.

There are numerous marked walking tracks ranging from leisurely to adventurous. The 231km Larapinta Trail stretches through the park and offers extended and overnight bushwalks for fit, experienced and well-prepared walkers.

The park encompasses an ancient landscape sculpted over time by climatic elements. It’s also a refuge for rare and threatened plants as well as wildlife, including uncommon bird species such as the Peregrine Falcon.

Features of the landscape are significant to the Arrernte people, including the Ochre Pits that have long been a quarry for important ochre pigments.

There are plenty of places to camp in the park, with varied access and facilities. Camping fees apply throughout the park and multi-day walker fees apply to the Larapinta Trail. Multi-day trail use and campsites must be booked online before you arrive. Overnight visitors should bring their own water supplies. Commercial facilities are available at Glen Helen Lodge.