East MacDonnell Ranges

Emily Gap

Jessie Gap

Corroboree Rock

Trephina Gorge

Trephina Gorge

Our campsite

Rob enjoying the view

Add caption

After a couple of days in Alice Springs exploring we decided it was time to head out of town for a few days to check out the lessor viewed East MacDonnell Ranges. First stop was Emily Gap just a few km from town. A large natural gap in the ranges which has aboriginal art showcasing caterpillars from the dreamtime. Just another few km out is Jessie Gap which is similar but to a smaller scale.
Continuing on you come to Corroboree Rock which is an amazing single rock formation only a few metres wide. There is a lovely walk around the rock and some stunning background views.
Continuing on we arrived at Trephina Gorge Nature Park - what a beautiful bush setting and campspot.
We found a lovely spot to camp right next to a fire pit and just a short walk to a loo - what more could you ask for? Once settled in Rob and I set off to tackle the Gorge walk which takes you up on the top Eastern side overlooking the Gorge and surrounds. Certainly got our heart rate up!
After a trip out to gather firewood we settled in to enjoy a lovely night - good food, wine and a starlit night!
The next morning we headed off to do the Panorama Walk to the top of the western side. A bit more challenging but certainly worth the effort. The scenery here is so impressive we can hardly wait to see the rest.
We also took a drive out to Arltunga Historical Reserve which is the site of Central Australia's first town (due to gold rush). Amazing how some of the buildings have survived - mainly we are told due to the hot dry climate. The gold rush failed as did the town due to the lack of available water. So maybe there's still gold out there in them hills (and going by the number of people camping out there a lot think so).
We also enjoyed a stopover at the historical Ross River Homestead which was built in the late 1890's. Amazingly preserved.
After a second night of serenity lack of supplies sent us back to Alice to restock. Must be prepared for longer !!