Chain of Ponds Walk is a 4km, grade 4 circuit hike located in the Trephina Gorge Nature Park, Northern Territory. The hike should take around 1.5 hrs to complete.

Length: 4km

Duration: 1.5 hrs

Grade: 4

Style: Circuit

Start: Rockhole Campground

End: Rockhole Campground

Location: Trephina Gorge Nature Park

Closest town: Alice Springs

Northern Territory

From state capital: 1,575km

Longitude: 134.3550118803978

Latitude: -23.540129644367973

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Warning

Temperatures at Trephina Gorge in summer can be extremely hot, so carry plenty of water with you when walking.

Chain of Ponds Walk (marked with green arrows) is a great hike walk to the lookout at the top of this narrow gorge offering spectacular views. However, some difficult climbing and scrambling over rocks is required to continue to the Rockhole, wading or smimming may be required after rains. The alternative option is to return along the same track to the carpark.

Camping

Campgrounds with pit toilets, picnic tables, drinking water, communal firepits and gas barbecues are provided at Trephina Bluff, Trephina Gorge and the Panorama Campgrounds. No drinking water is provided at the John Hayes Rockhole campground. Camping fees apply and campsites must be booked online before you arrive.

Swimming

John Hayes Rockhole is a popular swimming location during warmer months. However during prolonged dry periods the waterholes at Trephina Gorge and John Hayes Rockhole can evaporate, leaving only a sandy creekbed. Swimmers should be aware that most swimming holes are extremely cold. Prolonged exposure, even during summer, can result in hypothermia. Beware of submerged logs and rocks.

Route and GPX file

Total distance: 3930 m
Max elevation: 659 m
Min elevation: 581 m
Total climbing: 173 m
Total descent: -173 m

Download file: Trephina Gorge Chain of Ponds.gpx

Trail features

Gravel Path
Sandy Trail
Rough Trail
Undefined Trail
Waterfalls
Rivers
Gorges
Exposed Ledges
Rock Scrambling
Steep Terrain
Off Trail
River Crossings
Scenic Viewpoints
Untreated Water
Swimming Spots

Tips

When visiting the park remember all of the following:

Stay on designated roads and tracks
All historic, cultural items and wildlife are protected
Firewood collection is not permitted in the park
Fires are only permitted in designated fire pits
Bins are not provided so take your rubbish with you
Pets are not permitted in the park
Generators are not permitted
Drones are not permitted in the park.
If you're swimming be aware that most swimming holes are very cold and long exposure, even during summer, can lead to hypothermia.
Temperatures at Trephina Gorge in summer can be extremely hot, so carry plenty of water with you when walking.

Trail location

Getting there

Trephina Gorge Nature Park is situated 85 km east of Alice Springs, the Park is accessible to all vehicles. Access is via the sealed Ross Highway, then a 9 km drive into Trephina Gorge, the last 5 km is on a gravel road. The John Hayes Rockhole track within the Park is recommended for high clearance vehicles only. Heavy rains may cause all roads to become impassable. Check road conditions before you go.

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Access conditions

4WD Access
Gravel Road
Winding Road
Vehicle Ford
Small Car Park
Untreated Water
Campfire Pit
Camping Area

Gallery

About the region

Trephina Gorge, in the East MacDonnell Ranges, is noted for its sheer quartzite cliffs and River Red Gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) lined watercourses. Two gorges dissect the range: Trephina, with its wide views and sandy creekbed, and John Hayes Rockhole with steep, narrow rock walls. Water holes in this area attract much wildlife, including a diverse range of birds.

There are a number of short walks around Trephina Gorge, with its wide views and sandy creekbed, and around John Hayes Rockhole that has steep narrow rock walls. Experienced walkers can complete the Trephina Ridgetop Trail to John Hayes Rockhole and take in sweeping views of the East MacDonnell Ranges.

Trephina Gorge Nature Park is ideal for exploring on foot. Several walking tracks varying in length and difficulty allow you to discover and enjoy a number of habitats, each with its own diverse flora and fauna. Choose a walk that suits your level of fitness, interests and available time. In addition to the advice on the right hand side of this sheet, please remember:

There is no drinking water on any of the walking tracks
If walking alone, tell someone of your plans
Ensure you have enough time to complete the walk during daylight hours.

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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.

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