The Ellery Creek Dolomite Circuit is a 2.5km walk located in the heart of West MacDonnell National Park in the Northern Territory. This grade 3 hike is typically completed in around 1.25 hours and offers an excellent opportunity to explore the area's rich geological history.
The walk begins at the Larapinta Trail Information Point, where it briefly follows Section 7 of the Larapinta Trail. The path then veers south, marked by distinctive maroon arrows, which guide you through the varied landscape. As you stroll along the unsealed track, you’ll encounter some steady inclines, providing a good challenge without being too strenuous. The route takes you through a fascinating terrain shaped by millions of years of geological processes, with informative signs along the way explaining the area’s history and the plants that thrive in this unique environment.
One of the highlights of the walk is the striking Snake Rock, an impressive natural formation that’s worth stopping for. Further along the trail, a lookout offers sweeping views over the surrounding landscape, a perfect spot to pause and take in the beauty of the region.
For those looking to extend their adventure, a side trip to Ellery Creek Big Hole is highly recommended. A short detour leads you to the cool, refreshing waters of the creek, ideal for a swim to refresh yourself after the walk. Whether you're a geology enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy a scenic and relatively easy hike, the Ellery Creek Dolomite Circuit offers a memorable experience in the heart of the West MacDonnell Ranges.
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the
AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
Don't follow the blue markers, they are Larapinta Trail markers
Total distance: 2506 m
Max elevation: 706 m
Min elevation: 667 m
Total climbing: 67 m
Total descent: -67 m
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Before you go, complete a trip intentions form and share it with a trusted contact. Agree on a Late-Back Time and ask them to call 000 (Police) if you have not checked in. A clear trip plan is one of the simplest and most effective safety steps you can take.
Download the hiking preparation and safety checklists before leaving home to help you think through your plans. They help ensure important considerations are not overlooked and support safer decision-making on the trail.
Getting to the trailhead: West MacDonnell National Park.
To reach the Ellery Creek Dolomite Circuit trailhead, head 80 km west of Alice Springs via Larapinta and Namatjira Drives. The park is accessible by conventional vehicles, though the carpark area is unsealed. Keep in mind that after heavy rain, some of the roads may be impassable for a short period. There is a park entry fee, with the exception of Northern Territory residents who are exempt from paying. While the park can be visited year-round, the cooler months from April to September are generally the most pleasant for hiking and outdoor activities, offering more comfortable temperatures.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Find accommodation close to the trailhead including hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Use the interactive map to explore available options in nearby towns.
Nearby towns: Alice Springs, Glen Helen, Hermannsburg
Tjoritja West MacDonnell National Park stretches for 161 kilometres west of Alice Springs. Explore and appreciate the scenic beauty and history of the area on foot, swim in a waterhole, or pitch a tent for a longer stay.
Take a dip in the cold waters of one the park's permanent water holes. The larger water holes include Ellery Creek Big Hole, Ormiston Gorge, Redbank Gorge and Glen Helen Gorge.
There are numerous marked walking tracks ranging from leisurely to adventurous. The 223 kilometre Larapinta Trail stretches through the park and offers extended and overnight bushwalks for fit, experienced and well prepared walkers.
The park encompasses an ancient landscape sculpted over time by climatic elements. It is also a refuge for rare and threatened plants as well as wildlife, including the uncommon bird species such as the Peregrine Falcon.
Features of the landscape are significant to the Arrernte people, including the Ochre Pits that have long been a quarry for important ochre pigments.
There are plenty of places to camp in the park, with varied access and facilities. Camping fees apply and overnight visitors should bring their own water supplies. Commercial facilities are available at Glen Helen Resort.
Looking for more walks in or near West MacDonnell National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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9 Reviews on “Ellery Creek Dolomite Circuit Walk (2.5km)”
Really interesting little hike.