Ormiston Gorge
Kwartatuma
The most spectacular gorge in West MacDonnell, with red cliffs about 250 meters high and a permanent waterhole. The Ghost Gum Walk loop is the signature hike.
The red quartzite walls of Ormiston Gorge rise about 250 meters, and at the mouth of the gorge a permanent waterhole offers swimming, though the water is cold. The most popular trail, the Ghost Gum Walk, climbs to a lookout over the gorge (about 1.5 hours). The Ormiston Pound loop covers about 7–8 km (3–4 hours). It winds into a circular valley and then returns by following the creek up the gorge. There is a visitor center, a small shop, and a campground. Entry is free. The site lies about 135 km from town and is the centerpiece of any day trip into West MacDonnell.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Glen Helen Gorge
- Mount Sonder (Rwetyepme)
- Ochre Pits
- Serpentine Gorge
- Ellery Creek Big Hole
- Standley Chasm (Angkerle Atwatye)
- Simpsons Gap
- Alice Springs Desert Park