Attractions

Ormiston Gorge And Pound

On show at Ormiston Gorge is the spectacular geology and landforms of the MacDonnell Ranges. The Gorge has a near-permanent waterhole, estimated to be over 14 m deep, situated at its southern end.

The area contains one of the more interesting variety of native fauna and flora in the region, including a number a relict plant species remaining from a tropical past. The rediscovery of the Long-tailed Dunnart and the Centralian Rock Rat highlights the Park as an important refuge.

Access

Ormiston Gorge is located 135 km west of Alice Springs. Access is via the Larapinta and Namatjira Drives within the West MacDonnell National Park. The Visitor Centre is approximately 8 km from Namatjira Drive. Sealed roads provide access to conventional vehicles all year round. All roads can be impassable for a short period after heavy rain.

When To visit

The Park is accessible all year round. The cooler months (April to October) are the most pleasant.

What To Do

Camping: Camping facilities are available for tents and caravans as well as a larger camp ground for coach tours. Gas barbecues, toilets and showers are provided.
Swimming: The Gorge has a near-permanent waterhole situated 500 m from the Visitor Centre which is ideal for swimming, especially in the warmer months.
Walking: The best way to appreciate the scenery of Ormiston Gorge and Pound is to follow one of the many marked walking tracks. The 15 minute Waterhole and 30 minute Ghostgum Lookout return walks are the most popular with visitors. The 7 km Ormiston Pound Walk (for details see the map at Ormiston Gorge Visitor Centre) completes a full circuit from the Visitor Centre, meandering around scenic slopes, dropping into the flat expanse of the Pound and returning along Ormiston Gorge via the main waterhole. For the keen walker there are overnight trails and the Larapinta Trail also passes through the area (see PWCNT Regional Office for details).

Protect Your Park

All natural and cultural resources in the Park are protected.
The waterhole supports a number of rare fish and invertebrates. Do not introduce soaps, sunscreen or food scraps to any waterway.
Drive only on formed public roads.
Camping is only permitted in designated camping grounds.
Open fires are prohibited. Use only the gas barbecues provided.
Guns and traps are prohibited
Pets are not permitted in the Park.

Safety

Water: Limited drinking water is available at the Visitor Centre. It is advisable for walkers to carry drinking water.
Walking: Prepare well when walking. Sturdy footwear, a hat, sunscreen, loose fitting clothing and plenty of drinking water are recommended. Avoid walking alone and minimise physical activity during the hottest part of the day, particularly in summer. Walkers planning extended and overnight walks are strongly advised to register with the volunteer Overnight Walker Registration Scheme (by ringing 1300 650 730) and notify a friend or reliable person of your intended route and plans.
Swimming: Swimmers should be aware that most swimming holes are extremely cold. Prolonged exposure, even during summer, can result in hypothermia. Beware of submerged logs and rocks.

More Information

Parks and Wildlife Commission of the Northern Territory
Alice Springs Office
Arid Zone Research Institute, Tom Hare Building
South Stuart Highway, Alice Springs NT 0870
PO Box 1046 Alice Springs NT 0871
Ph: (08) 8951 8211
Fax: (08 8951 8268