The Larapinta Trail is a 223 kilometre walking track situated in the heart of Central Australia, running west from Alice Springs to Mount Sonder (Rwetyepme) through the West MacDonnell Ranges. Completed in 2002, it has rapidly gained a well-deserved reputation as one of the finest extended bushwalking experiences in the world.
The Larapinta Trail comprises 12 sections each of which involve a one or two day walk to complete. The Trail commences at the historic Alice Springs Telegraph Station then meanders west through many gaps and sheltered gorges, then climbs the dramatic red slopes of the rugged West MacDonnell Ranges providing stunning views of the spectacular Central Australian desert landscape below. The Trail passes through a wide variety of desert habitats before finally arriving at Mt Sonder, the 4th highest mountain in the Northern Territory and end of the Trail.
The Larapinta Trail encompasses many of the key attractions of the West MacDonnell Ranges including Ormiston Gorge, Ellery Creek Big Hole, Simpsons Gap, Serpentine Gorge, Redbank Gorge, Standley Chasm and Glen Helen. Several other walking tracks within the West MacDonnell National Park adjoin the Trail, enabling walkers to take side trips to explore more of the Park.
Walkers on the Larapinta Trail require a good level of general fitness and must be well equipped and prepared. Camp site facilities vary, but most offer a water supply, hardened tent sites, picnic tables. Some camp sites have free gas barbecue cooking facilities. Each section of the Trail is accessible to high clearance 4WD vehicles, so walkers can join or leave the Trail at several points, making it possible tailor the walking experience by choosing sections of interest or of a suitable grade for the bush walker's abilities. Planning and preparation is crucial for a safe and enjoyable walk, and it is highly recommended that all walkers register with the Overnight Walker Registration Scheme.
Walking the Larapinta Trail is a remote and challenging adventure, and is normally suggested that walkers allow 20 days to complete the entire 223 kilometres, allowing for side trips, rest stops and restocking food supplies. The Trail can be walked in either direction. Challenging climbs and descents are encountered in either direction, along with spectacular views and scenery that is unique in the world. Some hikers walk the Trail from west to east (Mt Sonder to Alice Springs), starting with a drop off at Redbank Gorge and finishing in town at Alice Springs. Remember to organise food drops along the way, and if walking from east to west (Alice Springs to Mt Sonder), remember to organise a pick up from Redbank Gorge before departure.