Exploring Illamurta Springs Conservation Reserve on Foot

Set in the remote heart of the Northern Territory, Illamurta Springs Conservation Reserve is a place where time slows down. Located around 192 kilometres south-west of Alice Springs, this 129-hectare reserve lies near the small community of Hermannsburg and forms part of the southern foothills of the James Range. From Darwin, the NT’s capital city, it’s approximately 1,500 kilometres to the south – a significant distance, but for those seeking a quiet place to walk, it’s well worth the effort.

Illamurta Springs is known for its peaceful setting and strong cultural significance. A permanent natural spring feeds into the arid landscape, creating a rare and vital moist habitat where several ancient aquatic plant species still survive. Scattered throughout the area are the ruins of the old Illamurta Springs Police Camp, which operated between 1893 and 1912. The station once served as a small administrative hub and a distribution point for rations, following the closure of the Boggy Hole Police Station in nearby Finke Gorge National Park.

This part of the Northern Territory is deeply significant for the Southern Arrernte (Pertame) Aboriginal people. Illamurta Springs forms part of the ‘Kuniya-Snake’ (Python) Dreaming, a cultural story passed down through generations. Visitors can see evidence of long-standing Aboriginal occupation throughout the reserve—stone artefacts, including fragments of grindstones, are scattered across the site, offering a tangible connection to the past.

There are no formalised walking tracks in the reserve, but for experienced bushwalkers, the area offers opportunities for self-guided exploration and short hikes through the rugged foothills. It’s best suited to those comfortable navigating unmarked terrain. As with many all trails in Central Australia, it’s important to be self-sufficient and prepared for changing conditions. The cooler months from April to September provide the most comfortable conditions for hiking, walking, and exploring on foot.

Accessing Illamurta Springs takes some planning. You can reach it from the Stuart Highway and Ernest Giles Road, or via Palm Valley on the Finke River 4WD route. Be aware that all access tracks are unsealed and sandy, requiring a high-clearance four-wheel drive. After heavy rainfall, roads may be impassable, so always check local conditions before setting out.

Despite its remote location, Illamurta Springs offers a quiet, reflective experience for those looking to explore less-travelled bushwalks and discover a place where culture, history, and nature meet.

Want to find the best trails in Illamurta Springs Conservation Reserve for an adventurous hike, casual walk, or a family trip? Trail Hiking Australia has the best trails for walking, hiking, running, and more.