Ormiston Gorge
Swim, camp or walk the gorge
Heat warning
Temperatures across the Northern Territory can be very hot between October and April.
It can exceed 40 degrees Celsius in some locations. High humidity in the Top End can also make you tire easily.
Check forecast temperatures before you visit. Find out how to prepare and stay safe in the heat.
Ormiston Gorge is a great place for a swim, or to see the towering walls of the gorge.
Located 135km west of Alice Springs in Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park, it is accessible by sealed roads.
There are several walks at Ormiston Gorge.
You can choose from:
- short accessible walks for all skill levels and abilities
- half day circuit walks
- overnight walks.
The area has an interesting range of native plants and animals including a number of relict plant species from Central Australia's tropical past.
This park requires visitors to the NT to have a parks pass.
Check if the park is open
Swimming
Located 500m from the visitor centre, is a permanent swimming waterhole.
It is estimated to be up to 14m deep at its southern end.
You should be aware that most waterholes in the park are extremely cold.
Prolonged exposure, even during summer, can result in hypothermia.
Beware of submerged logs and rocks. Don't jump or dive into the water.
Camping
Ormiston Gorge is rated as a category B campground and offers more facilities than other sites in Tjoritja/ West MacDonnell National Park.
Gas barbecues, toilets and showers are provided. The drive-in campground is accessible to all vehicle types including caravans.
Campsite bookings must be made through the online booking system.
Walks
Read about:
Larapinta Trail
This long distance walking track is divided into 12 sections.
Each section takes one or two days to complete.
Ormiston Gorge forms part of sections 9 and 10.
Read more about the Larapinta Trail.
Address
Ormiston Gorge is 135km west of Alice SpringsContact
08 8951 8250Park pass required
YesFacilities
- BBQ - Gas
- Caravan
- Disabled access
- Information signs
- Public toilets
- Ranger station
Activities
- Camping
- Picnic
- Swimming