The Larapinta Trail in the West MacDonnell Ranges is one of the world's best adventure bushwalking experiences. The majestic West MacDonnell Ranges stretch extend for about 230 km from Alice Springs to Mt Sonder. These ranges are the result of approximately 60 million years of erosion, and have evolved their own unique and distinctive character. The tilted rock layers which remain have fractured so one side of the range almost always consists of a rocky scarp - but the tilt is so great that the other side is usually pretty steep and rocky as well. The ridges are almost entirely rocky with little or no soil. Below the rocky ridges lie flat flood plains consisting of deep sand. Surface water is almost non-existent except in the depths of rocky gaps (gorges). Drinking water is however provided at regular intervals along the Trail.
The Western MacDonnell Ranges are not a single, unbroken ridge but rather a series of crests with rocky gaps and sections of flat, sandy flood plain between the sections. The area was the scene of active geological movement at some time, resulting in many different folds and tilts. Rivers too have come and gone over the ages, eroding gaps through the tilted rock strata. Where rocky cliffs have restricted the river flows there are deep waterholes, home to a totally different range of vegetation to that found in drier, more exposed and elevated areas. The water holes are also home to a diverse range of wildlife.
Construction of the Larapinta Trail bushwalking track commenced in 1990 as a means of attracting tourists, backpackers, hikers and bushwalkers to Central Australia and the West MacDonnell Ranges. The Trail was completed in 2002 and is now well established and signposted. The trail is clearly visible along its entire length. The bushwalking route is divided into 12 sections and takes around 15 days to complete. However, many people just do day walks or visit the magnificent waterholes, while others join a guided tour.