Northern Territory · Attraction
Ormiston Gorge
The ranges' grandest swimming gorge
schedule 1 min read / Updated Jun 2026
Ormiston Gorge is widely regarded as the centrepiece of Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park, sitting 135 kilometres west of Alice Springs at the edge of the spectacular Ormiston Pound. A permanent waterhole up to 14 metres deep lies just 500 metres from the visitor centre, enclosed by towering red walls and ghost gum-studded terraces. The gorge forms the gateway to sections 9 and 10 of the iconic 231-kilometre Larapinta Trail.
The signature Ormiston Pound Walk is a 7.5-kilometre circuit taking three to four hours that crosses the rocky floor of the pound, climbs through spinifex slopes, and returns along the gorge via the main waterhole, passing through some of the most striking desert scenery in Australia. Shorter walks, including a 20-minute Ghost Gum Lookout stroll, suit visitors with limited time. The on-site kiosk stocks refreshments, park maps, and basic supplies.
Ormiston Gorge offers the most developed camping facilities in the park, with gas barbecues, flushing toilets, hot showers, and a campground suitable for caravans and all vehicle types. All campsite bookings must be completed online before arrival. Wildlife in the area includes black-footed rock wallabies, euros, and a variety of honeyeaters and raptors that congregate around the waterhole.
Scenic views
Lookouts near Ormiston Gorge.
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