TREK · Australia
Larapinta Trail
Larapinta Trail — Tjoritja
West MacDonnell Ranges, Northern Territory · Australia Multi-day
Photo: source
Information
- Distance
- 223.0 km
- Duration
- 12–20 days
- Max elevation
- 1,531 m
- Country
- Australia (AU)
- Difficulty
- Strenuous — extreme sun exposure, rocky terrain, far from civilization
- Best Season
- April–September
- Permits & Fees
- Required; online registration + fee via parkbookings.nt.gov.au; campground bookings are separate and mandatory in the busy season
Description
The Larapinta Trail is one of Australia's most iconic multi-day hikes, spanning 223 km from the Telegraph Station in Alice Springs westward to Mount Sonder through the ancient West MacDonnell Ranges of the Northern Territory. Divided into 12 sections ranging from 9 to 29 km, the trail passes through dramatic red gorges, permanent waterholes, and exposed ridgelines with sweeping outback panoramas. Extreme summer heat (regularly above 40°C) and intense sun exposure make April to September the optimal window for this challenging walk. Permits and campsite bookings are mandatory through the NT Parks online booking system.
Trail Highlights
12 sections from Alice Springs to Mount Sonder through the West MacDonnell Ranges; Simpsons Gap; Ellery Creek Big Hole; Ormiston Gorge; Glen Helen; the summit of Mount Sonder (1,531 m); and the dramatic red desert landscape of Central Australia
Trekking Experiences
Real stories & vlogs from people who did the trek. Click to explore.
References
The summary above was compiled from the following sources.