Ormiston Gorge: A bucket list visit!
📸 : Cameron’s view
Tucked within the rugged West MacDonnell Ranges in the Northern Territory, Ormiston Gorge is a stunning showcase of Australia’s Outback beauty. Known for its dramatic red rock walls, cool waterhole, and abundant wildlife, this natural gem offers an unforgettable escape into the heart of the desert.
One of the main attractions at Ormiston Gorge is its permanent waterhole, providing a refreshing spot for swimming, especially during the warmer months. Surrounded by towering cliffs, the waterhole is a peaceful haven that draws both travellers and native wildlife, including a variety of birds and the elusive black-footed rock wallaby.
I didn’t hesitate. The water was deliciously cold — that sharp, shocking cold that makes you gasp and grin at the same time. Floating there, surrounded by sheer red walls and the echo of birds calling through the gorge, felt like a reset button for the senses.
For those who enjoy hiking, the Ormiston Pound Walk is a must. This 7-kilometre loop trail takes you through a diverse landscape of rocky escarpments, sandy riverbeds, and open plains, offering spectacular views of the gorge and beyond. The walk culminates with a descent into the gorge, where you can cool off in the waterhole.
Whether you’re seeking a relaxing swim, a challenging hike, or simply a quiet moment to absorb the serene beauty of the Outback, Ormiston Gorge delivers. As the sun sets, the gorge’s red walls glow with golden hues, creating a magical experience you’ll treasure forever.
If you’re keen on seeing where the track led next, our Travel Dispatch has the rest of our story.
Ormiston Gorge
Ormiston Gorge is one of the standout locations in the Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park, around 135 kilometres west of Alice Springs. Known for its year-round waterhole, it’s a haven for both wildlife and travellers seeking a swim in the desert.
Facilities include a visitor centre, campground, and picnic area, with walking tracks ranging from short strolls to the 7-kilometre Ormiston Pound Walk. The gorge is also an important part of Arrernte Country, carrying deep cultural connections to the landscape and its stories.
How to Get There
Ormiston Gorge is located about 135 km west of Alice Springs along Larapinta Drive and Namatjira Drive, both fully sealed.
We visited as part of an Autopia Tours day trip that also included Standley Chasm, Ochre Pits, and Ellery Creek Big Hole. An easy and relaxed way to see several key stops without worrying about the drive.
Independent travellers will find plenty of space to park and camp, with access suitable for all vehicles in dry conditions.
What to See, Tours and Activities
What we did:
Joined an Autopia West MacDonnell Ranges tour from Alice Springs.
Swam in the permanent waterhole — freezing, clear, and completely worth it.
Took a short section of the Ormiston Pound Walk for views over the ranges.
Spotted native birds and rock wallabies around the cliffs.
Other highlights you might explore:
Standley Chasm – Glows with midday light and cultural depth.
Ochre Pits – Colourful, sacred cliffs used for thousands of years by the Arrernte people.
Ellery Creek Big Hole – Another swimming spot, ideal for an afternoon stop.
Glen Helen Gorge – Close by, with accommodation and a licensed restaurant.
When to Visit
The best time to visit is April to September, when daytime temperatures are comfortable for walking and swimming. If you want to see the gorge at its most vivid, arrive mid-morning when sunlight reaches the cliffs. The waterhole is deep year-round, making it one of the few reliable swimming spots in Central Australia.
Fast Facts – Ormiston Gorge
Location: Ormiston Gorge, Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park, Northern Territory
Distance from Alice Springs: 135 km west via Larapinta and Namatjira Drives (sealed)
Traditional Owners: Western Arrernte people
Access: Sealed road suitable for all vehicles and motorhomes
Facilities: Visitor centre, campground, picnic area, toilets, kiosk
Walking Track: 1.5 km return to the waterhole; 7 km Ormiston Pound Walk loop
Dog Friendly: Not permitted within Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park
Best Time to Visit: April to September for mild weather and clear skies
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