N'Dhala Gorge Walk is a 3.5km, grade 3 hike located in N'Dhala Gorge Nature Park, Northern Territory. The hike should take around 1.5 hours to complete.
Hike overview
A 1.5 km (1 hour return) marked walking track leads into the gorge. Signs along the track interpret some of the petroglyphs and the rare Acacia undoolyana. There is a sign within the gorge indicating the end of the marked trail. You can continue to wander a short distance beyond this point but be mindful and respectful of where you walk.
The petroglyphs in this shady gorge are relicts of the art and stories of an ancient, but still living culture. The petroglyphs are of two styles, the finely pecked and the pounded. It is difficult to estimate the age of the art - they possibly represent two time periods. Most were probably done within the past 2,000 years, but some could be as old as 10,000 years.
Aboriginal custodians for the site, now living in Santa Teresa, indicate that some of the designs are connected with a Caterpillar Dreaming story.
In addition to the cultural significance of the Gorge, it is also an important site for fire sensitive plants including SickleLeaf Wattle (Acacia undoolyana) and White Cypress Pine (Callitris glaucophylla).
Camping
A small, simple bush camping area is located at the entrance to the Park. No water is provided and you should bring your own supplies. Camping fees apply and campsites must be booked online before you arrive.
When to Visit
The Park is generally accessible all year round, however the cooler months (April to September) are more pleasant.
Route and GPX file
Max elevation: 517 m
Min elevation: 462 m
Total climbing: 397 m
Total descent: -366 m
Tips
Safety and Comfort
- Observe park safety signs.
- Carry and drink plenty of water.
- Wear a shady hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, suitable clothing and footwear.
- Avoid strenuous activity during the heat of the day.
- Consider your health and fitness when choosing a walk.
Please Remember
- Keep to designated roads and tracks.
- Camp only in your pre-booked site in designated camping areas.
- All historic, cultural items and wildlife are protected. €¢ Firewood collection is not permitted in the park.
- Fires are only permitted in designated firepits.
- Bins are not provided, please take your rubbish with you.
- Pets are not permitted.
- Generators are not permitted.
- Drones are not permitted.
Trail location
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Getting there
N'Dhala Gorge is situated 90 km east of Alice Springs, off the Binns Track. The first part of the drive is along a sealed road to Ross River Resort. The turn-off to N'Dhala Gorge is 500 m before the Resort. After the homestead, there is 11 km of 4WD track. The 4WD track crosses the Ross River several times and becomes impassable after heavy rain.
About the region
N'Dhala Gorge is an important site for the Eastern Arrernte people known as Irlwentye (pronounced eel-oon-ja). The Aboriginal custodians for the site (the Oliver, Ryder and Williams families) welcome you. The Gorge is a cultural treasure house containing over 5,900 individual petroglyphs (rock engravings), several art sites, shelter areas and other sites of cultural significance.
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Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Let someone know
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
Gear to consider
My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
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Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.