Overview
The Larapinta Trail is a long-distance hiking trail in the Northern Territory of Australia. It stretches over 223 kilometers through the West MacDonnell Ranges and offers stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.
The trail is renowned for its geological features, cultural heritage, and unique desert environment.
Location
Address
Western MacDonnell Ranges, Northern Territory
Neighborhood: West MacDonnell Ranges
Coordinates
-23.700000, 134.216700
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
April to September
Best Time of Day
Early morning
Cooler temperatures and better wildlife viewing
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Warm and pleasant
- • Wildflowers
- • Lush landscapes
summer
Extremely hot, temperatures above 40°C
- • Stargazing
autumn
Cooler and comfortable
- • Cooler temperatures
- • Clear skies
winter
Cool and dry
- • Mild temperatures
- • Clear skies
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Carry plenty of water
- Inform someone of your hiking plans
- Check weather forecasts
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Moderate to high
- • Dehydration, heat exhaustion, sunburn, snake encounters
Medical facilities: Limited, nearest hospital in Alice Springs
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit cards
Currency
Australian Dollar (AUD)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Hiking-appropriate clothing, Layered clothing, sturdy boots, Hiking boots with good grip, Inappropriate footwear (e.g., thongs, dress shoes)
Booking Tips
- • At least 1 month in advance for guided tours
- • Official website or licensed tour operators
- • Varies by operator, usually 48 hours in advance
- • Guided tours, pre-booked activities
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Larapinta Trail Guide
Size: 30 MB
Features: Trail maps, GPS tracking, Emergency contacts, Weather updates
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Limited, available at some trailheads and visitor centers
Charging Stations: Not specified
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Alice Springs Airport
Distance: 20 km
Travel Time: 25 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 15 km to the trailhead at Telegraph Station
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Unique desert landscapes, rich cultural heritage, sense of adventure
Historical Significance: The trail follows ancient Aboriginal trade routes and has significant cultural importance to the Arrernte people
Insider Tips
- Visit the West MacDonnell Ranges Visitor Centre for up-to-date trail information
- Join a guided tour to learn about the cultural significance of the land
Local Recommendations
- • Visit the Araluen Cultural Precinct in Alice Springs
- • Try local bush tucker (native foods)
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Arrernte (some guides)
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Orminston Gorge
Best Time: Early morning
Tips: Capture the waterfall in the background
Result: Stunning landscape shots
Standley Chasm
Best Time: Midday
Tips: Use the sunlight to highlight the chasm walls
Result: Dramatic rock formations
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Alice Springs Desert Park
Distance: 15 km
Walking: N/A
Type: Wildlife park
Anzac Hill
Distance: 10 km
Walking: N/A
Type: Historical site
Reptile Centre
Distance: 15 km
Walking: N/A
Type: Zoo
Reviews
Based on 500 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Carry plenty of water"
- "Hike with a guide for the best experience"
- "Visit during the cooler months"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (1)
Quick Info
Available Tours
1
Rating
4.8 / 5.0
Reviews
500
Adult Entry
$0 (trail access), $5 (parking)