Kata Tjuta Valley of the Winds is a 7.4km, grade 4 hike located in the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Northern Territory. The hike should take around 3.5 hrs to complete.
Hike summary
Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) is a massive pole of 36 weathered domes, estimated to be around 500 million years old. Explore this site by taking the Kata Tjuta Valley of the Winds walk. Enjoy various waterholes, sacred meeting areas and numerous native birds including finches and budgerigars. Following rain you can also view native wild flowers along the desert plains.
The Valley of the Winds walk lets you immerse yourself among Kata Tjuta's domes. It also features unparalleled views of the spectacular Mars-like landscape surrounding Kata Tjuta from two lookout points along the track.
This walk is classed as Grade 4. It is steep, rocky and difficult in places, so please be careful and take your time. The full Valley of the Winds circuit takes 3-4 hours. Drinking water is available halfway along the track.
For a shorter option you can walk to one of the lookouts and return. However, doing the full circuit is actually easier than walking to the second lookout (Karingana) and returning.
Karu lookout (1 hour, 2.2 km return) - Grade 3
The track to the first lookout is moderately difficult and has some loose rocks to negotiate. However, the views from the lookout are absolutely jaw-dropping.
Mind your step and wear sturdy footwear. Drinking water is available at the start of the track.
Karingana lookout (2.5 hours, 5.4 km return) - Grade 4
The track to the Karingana lookout takes you down into the valley and creek beds.
It is challenging in sections with many steps and some steep spots.
Route and GPX file
Max elevation: 770 m
Min elevation: 584 m
Total climbing: 495 m
Total descent: -495 m
Tips
- Heat exhaustion and dehydration risk. In hot weather finish these walks by 11.0am.
- You will come across very few people after the first lookout, making the Valley of the Winds the perfect place for some quiet contemplation.
Gear you might need
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Location
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About the region
The ancient red rock formations of Kata Tjuta rise from the dusty land to make an incredible sight in Central Australia. Witness the spectacular rocks as they appear to change colour and immerse yourself in the Aboriginal stories of this special place, 500 million years in the making.
Kata Tjuta is a group of large, ancient rock formations about 30 kilometres (18.6 miles) away from Uluru in Australia's Red Centre. Together, these giant stone formations form the two major landmarks within the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Kata Tjuta is made up of 36 domes spread over an area of more than 20 kilometres (12.4 miles). The highest point is Mount Olga, named in honour of Queen Olga of Württemberg by the explorer Ernest Giles.
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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.