Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park
Whether you're hiking the Larapinta Trail or taking a day trip to Ellery Creek Big Hole, Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park is an essential stop for visitors to Australia's Red Centre. The traditional owners of Tjoritja, the Arrernte people, have a strong connection to this land, which can be seen at sites like the Ochre Pits.
The park is an ideal spot for hiking, birdwatching, and four-wheel driving. Camping is permitted at Ellery Big Hole, Redbank Gorge, and Ormiston Gorge, while accommodation is available at Standley Chasm.
ADDRESS:
5Q8M876V+35, Alice Springs NT 0870, Australia
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Elsey National Park
For a refreshing pit stop during your Outback road trip, look no further than Elsey National Park near Mataranka. Here there are a range of swimming pools to enjoy, fed by the local hot springs.
At Mataranka Thermal Pool, Bitter Springs, and Rainbow Springs, the water temperature hovers around 90 degrees and the pools are shaded by cabbage palms and pandanus. During the summer, the unheated Stevie’s Hole on the Waterhouse River may be a more refreshing choice. The park is also popular with locals for fishing, walking, and boating.
ADDRESS:
Stuart Hwy, Mataranka NT 0852, Australia