Simpsons Gap
Take one of the many walks and enjoy the magnificent views and rare plants
Heat warning
Temperatures across the Northern Territory can be very hot between October and April, it can exceed 40 degrees Celsius.
Check for active heatwave warnings before you visit, go to the Bureau of Meteorology website.
Central Australia has dry heat, and the Top End is humid. Both can cause exhaustion and dehydration.
Find out how to prepare and stay safe in the heat.
Simpsons Gap is a 20 minute drive from Alice Springs in Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park.
At dawn or dusk you may spot a black-footed rock wallaby along the walking track or near the permanent waterhole.
Vegetation typical of the MacDonnell Ranges is found in the area, including large stands of mulga and over 40 rare plants.
Several dreaming trails and stories cross at this important spiritual site.
There are many short walks that pass the native plants of the area, including ancient ghost gums and to magnificent views of the range.
This park requires visitors to the NT to have a parks pass.
Check if the park is open
Swimming
Swimming is not permitted in this area.
Walks
There are two short walks and one longer walk at Simpsons Gap.
- Ghost Gum Walk
- Cassia Hill - get the Cassia Hill self guided walk PDF (1.2 MB)
- Woodland Trail
There is also easy access to the Larapinta Trail.
Larapinta Trail
This long distance walking track is divided into 12 sections. Each section takes 1 or 2 days to complete.
Simpsons Gap forms part of sections 1 and 2.
Camping is allowed at the Simpsons Gap camping area for Larapinta Trail walkers only.
Camping
You can only camp if you're walking the Larapinta Trail or you're with a school group.
Contact the Alice Springs parks office for school group bookings by calling 08 8951 8250.
Cycling
A sealed bicycle path to Simpsons Gap begins opposite Flynn's Grave, 7km from Alice Springs along Larapinta Drive.
It's a 17km one way track to Simpsons Gap and is suitable for children who are confident bike riders.
Take your helmet, plenty of water, snacks and be sun smart.
Read more about the Simpsons Gap bike path.
Address
The turn off to Simpsons Gap is 18 km west of Alice Springs along Larapinta DriveContact
08 8951 8250Park pass required
YesFacilities
- BBQ - Gas
- Public toilets
- Water - Boil before drinking
Activities
- Picnic
- Walking