Gray Line Alice Springs » West MacDonells
Usually, dry riverbeds, vast craggy ochre red sandstone gaps and gorges, and tranquil waterholes make up the spectacular landforms of the West MacDonnell Ranges. The presence of ancient Aboriginal dreaming is always evident in the rugged clefts and chasms.
HIGHLIGHTS [875]:
- Head west on Laraointa Drive alongside the ochre-colored West MacDonnells
- Visit John Memorial at the foot of the Mt Gillen
- The remains of the twin ghost gums painted by Albert Namatjira
- Take a guided walk into Simpsons Gap – rich ochre-colored rock walls rising from a sandy creek bed
- Take a guided walk along the Angkale Creek bed to Standley Chasm
- Standley Chasm – a striking deep red cleft that glows with reflected sunlight
- Look for black-footed Rock Wallabies along the rocky base
- Enjoy morning tea and cake at Standley Chasm
- Ellery Creek Big Hole – take a short walk along a creek bed to the cool waterhole below a steep rocky escarpment
- Time to relax at the waterhole or perhaps a swim
- Stop at the Ochre Pits and learn of their significance to the Aboriginal people
- Visit Ormiston Gorge and waterhole for a gourmet picnic lunch with a glass of wine or soft drink
- Pass Glen Helen Gorge to a panoramic lookout for spectacular views toward Mt Sonder and the Glen Helen river valley
- Take a short walk along the creek bed to the cool waterhole below the steep rocky escarpments
- Look for eagles, kytes and falcons soaring in thermal currents above the West MacDonnells
- Perhaps meet a local lizard
Additional Information:
A hat, sunscreen, sturdy walking shoes and bottled water are required when participating in walks.
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Fare Includes:
Entrance to Standley Chasm, morning tea and ploughman’s lunch with drink