Simpsons Gap
Rungutjirba
The first stop in West MacDonnell, just 22 km from town. A permanent waterhole lies between red quartzite walls, and black-footed rock-wallabies can be seen at dusk.
Simpsons Gap is a gorge cut through the MacDonnell Ranges by Roe Creek. Between towering red walls, a waterhole and white ghost gums stand along the way. A level path from the car park leads to the gorge in about 20 minutes return. Early mornings and evenings are the best times to spot black-footed rock-wallabies moving about the rocks. You can also cycle to the gorge from town along a paved bike path of about 17 km. Entry is free, and the site lies within Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park. The gorge is sacred to the Arrernte people, so please do not swim in the water.
Opening hours
05:00–20:00
Nearby sights
- Alice Springs Desert Park
- Araluen Cultural Precinct
- Alice Springs School of the Air
- Alice Springs
- Alice Springs Reptile Centre
- Anzac Hill
- Royal Flying Doctor Service Tourist Facility
- Todd Mall