Running due west from Alice Springs, the West MacDonnell Ranges contain a variety of impressing and interesting geological features and landscapes. Simpsons Gap is a dramatic cleft in the range through which a dry white sand riverbed fringed with river red gums winds. Standley Chasm with its vertical red walls that glow in the midday sun gives the impression of some sort of giant fracture in the rock. It contains permanent springs and unusual plant life and is a pleasant excursion on its own. Ellery Creek Big Hole is a large permanent waterhole nestled in the ranges that is a favourite swimming place for locals in the summer. The water can be freezing at other times of the year however.
Explore Ormiston Gorge
The deep gorge and inviting waterhole of Ormiston Gorge and Ormiston Pound offer a rewarding experience for bushwalkers. Often called the most spectacular gorge of central Australia, it lies in West MacDonnell Park around two hours west of Alice Springs. more
