RV FEATURE
EAST MACDONNELL RANGES
Call me crazy, but I rate the East MacDonnell
Ranges higher than the western side. Why?
Trephina Gorge, Corroboree Rock, Arltunga,
N’Dhala Gorge, Ross River Resort, Ruby Gap and
Hale River Homestead, for starters. The gorges
are spectacular and less crowded, so you get to
enjoy the serenity a bit more. I will focus, though,
on Trephina and N’Dhala gorges.
Trephina Gorge is simply stunning.
Trephina Gorge has several short walks with its
wide, sandy creek bed that winds its way through
the steep rock walls. The ridgetop trail is for more
experienced walkers and offers stunning views of
the gorge from a different perspective.
N’Dhala Gorge is culturally significant to the local
Arrernte people as it is a massive petroglyph site,
with over 6000 rock carvings within the gorges.
There is a 1.5km return walk through the main
gorge.
FAST FACTS
TREPHINA GORGE:
• Located 85km east of Alice Springs via the
Ross River Highway. The last 5km is unsealed.
• There are four campgrounds: Rockhole (4WD
only); Bluff; Gorge; and Panorama (suitable
for caravans).
• Cash only fees apply, as follows: $3.30 per
adult, $1.65 per child (5-15 years) and $7.70
per family (2 adults, 4 kids).
• Facilities include picnic tables and pit toilets.
N’DHALA GORGE:
• Located 90km east of Alice Springs via the
Ross River Highway. The final 11km is 4WD
only.
• Camping is permitted.
• Cash only fees apply, as follows: $3.30 per
adult, $1.65 per child (5-15 years) and $7.70
per family (2 adults, 4 kids).
• Facilities incude picnic tables and pit toilets.
• Collect firewood prior to entering the park and
light within the fire pits.
• Pets are not allowed.
• Take all rubbish with you.
• Collect firewood prior to entering the park and
light within the fire pits.
• Pets are not allowed.
• Take all rubbish with you.
Imagine walking up to this at N’Dhala Gorge.
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