West MacDonnell Ranges: Day Trip from Alice Springs with Gorge Walks & Lunch

Summary

Simpsons Gap to Ormiston Gorge walks swimming ochre stories lunch

You’ll wander through ancient gaps and chasms in the West MacDonnell Ranges on this day trip from Alice Springs, with a local guide sharing stories along the way. Swim (if you’re brave) at Ellery Creek Big Hole, see ochre-streaked cliffs sacred to Arrernte people, and share lunch at Ormiston Gorge. It’s less about ticking boxes than feeling what makes this place hum.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed after our guide picked us up in Alice Springs was how the light hit the West MacDonnell Ranges — not just red, but all these weird pinks and oranges that shift as you drive. We started at Simpsons Gap, and I remember the quiet crunch of gravel under my shoes and someone pointing out a black-footed rock wallaby (I almost missed it — they blend right in). The air felt dry but not harsh, and there was this faint eucalyptus smell everywhere.

Standley Chasm was next. Our group kind of fell silent walking through it, except for a couple of magpies arguing somewhere above us. Li, our guide, poured tea from a battered thermos and explained how the chasm glows brightest around midday — we were a bit early but still caught some crazy colors bouncing off the walls. I tried to say “Angkerle Atwatye” (the Arrernte name) and totally butchered it; Li laughed and gave me a thumbs up anyway.

The Ochre Pits looked almost painted — stripes of white, yellow, deep rusty red. Li talked about how local Arrernte people used this ochre for ceremonies and trading. It made me think about how old everything is out here; like you’re walking through someone else’s story. Lunch was at Ormiston Gorge — sandwiches, fruit, cold drinks. Some waterbirds hung around hoping for crumbs. I sat on a rock and just watched the shadows move across the waterhole for a while.

Ellery Creek Big Hole was last before heading back to Alice Springs. A few of us braved the swim (it’s cold even in summer!), but honestly just dipping my feet felt good enough after all that sun. The drive back was quiet — everyone sort of spaced out watching the ranges roll by outside the window. I still think about those colors sometimes when things feel too busy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore West MacDonnell Ranges highlights

• Pickup from Alice Springs hotel
• Drive into West MacDonnell Ranges National Park
• Walk at Simpsons Gap and spot rock wallabies
• Stroll and have morning tea at Standley Chasm
• Visit the Ochre Pits and take photos
• Picnic lunch at Ormiston Gorge waterhole
• Swim at Ellery Creek Big Hole
• Return to Alice Springs hotel

Top questions

How long is the West MacDonnell Ranges day trip from Alice Springs?

The tour lasts one full day with pickup and drop-off at your Alice Springs hotel.

Is swimming allowed during the tour?

You can swim at Ellery Creek Big Hole during warmer months if you want to cool off.

What are some stops included on this tour?

The day trip visits Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm (Angkerle Atwatye), Ochre Pits, Ormiston Gorge, and Ellery Creek Big Hole.

Are meals provided on this West MacDonnell Ranges day trip?

Yes, morning tea and picnic lunch are included in your tour.

Is entry to Standley Chasm included?

Your entry fee to Standley Chasm is covered as part of your booking.

Do I need to buy an NT Parks Pass before joining?

Yes, please purchase an NT Parks Pass before your tour—digital copies are accepted.

What should I bring for this day trip?

You’ll need strong walking shoes, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottle—and swimwear if you plan to swim in summer.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Alice Springs, air-conditioned transport throughout the West MacDonnell Ranges with an experienced local guide leading every stop, entry fees including Standley Chasm covered for you, plus morning tea and a relaxed picnic lunch before heading back in the afternoon.