This is a remote area trail. Help takes time to organise and arrive. Carry an PLB or satellite phone. Carry enough water and protect yourself from the sun. Even during winter thirst and dehydration can be debilitating, so be prepared.
Soaring 1,531 meters above sea level, Mt Zeil is in the West MacDonnell National Park and stands as the undisputed king of the Northern Territory and the tallest sentinel west of the Great Dividing Range. Its imposing presence draws adventurous souls seeking a challenging climb and breathtaking panoramas.
While the summit may call your name, reaching it requires a lot of planning. You can drive to a Day Parking Area which is situated about 1.5km walk to the north side of the mountain. Remember, this is just the starting point, as Mt Zeil boasts no clearly marked trails and I have not provided a GPS route.
Mt Zeil's beauty lies in its untamed nature. Navigate the rugged terrain, characterised by sharp inclines and the invitingly spiky spinifex. This off-the-beaten-path adventure is for experienced hikers who relish the thrill of the unknown.
The arduous climb rewards you with a sense of accomplishment and unparalleled views. From the exposed summit, the vastness of the outback unfolds beneath your feet, a tapestry of ochre earth and verdant pockets painted by the seasons. Savor the moment, for you stand atop the crown jewel of the Northern Territory.
Note: The length of 20km is approximate only. There are no market routes to the summit and no official starting point. The final length and duration will need to be determined by you during your planning.
- Respect the National Park: Mt Zeil resides within the West MacDonnell National Park. Familiarise yourself with park regulations and obtain any necessary permits before heading out on your climb.
- Safety First: This challenging climb is not for the faint of heart. Ensure you're physically fit and well-prepared for the rigors of the terrain. Sturdy footwear, ample water, and sun protection are essential.
- Leave No Trace: Pack out all your waste and respect the delicate ecosystem of the mountain.
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Mount Zeil (Image: Northern Territory Parks and Wildlife)
Please don’t copy GPX files or content from this site to AllTrails or other platforms. Each trail has been personally mapped, documented, and refined to support Australia’s bushwalking and hiking community. While some details come from land managers, every listing reflects significant personal effort. This is a free, community-driven initiative—your respect helps keep it that way.
Due to the remote nature of this hike and the preparation required, I have not provided my GPX file. If you are looking for more information, contact NT National Parks on: (08) 8951 8272.
Getting to the trailhead: West MacDonnell National Park.
Start your journey on the Tanami Track, roughly 20 kilometers north of Alice Springs where it diverges from the Stuart Highway. Proceed about 30 kilometers along the Tanami Track until you reach a secondary path branching off to the left. This will lead you to several water bores near Mount Zeil.
Closest towns to this walk: 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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Grade 5 (Difficult) - Walks for the Most Experienced: Grade 5 represents the most challenging walking tracks on the
AWTGS. These are only recommended for very experienced and fit walkers with specialised skills, including navigation and emergency first aid. Tracks are likely to be very rough, very steep, and unmarked. Walks may be more than 20 kilometers. These challenging walks demand a high level of fitness and experience to navigate difficult terrain, significant elevation changes, and potentially unformed paths.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.
Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
