Our day in the West MacDonnell Ranges National Park kept delivering right until our last stop at Ormiston Gorge. Located 135km from Alice Springs, Ormiston Gorge is an easy drive from town. Of all the places we explored in the National Park, this is my favourite. It’s an oasis with its waterhole, shady trees and easy wheelchair access.
A path leads from the carpark to an accessible viewing platform and the views, well, they’re just glorious.
Ormiston Gorge showcases the spectacular geology and landforms of the MacDonnell Ranges. The Gorge has a near-permanent waterhole, estimated to be up to 14 metres deep at its southern end.
Stairs lead down to the Gorge, which is popular with swimmers in the warmer months. Apparently in summer the water’s still cold. Swimming definitely wasn’t on our mind in mid-winter.
AJ and I went exploring on the other side of the Gorge and it is beautiful but the views from the accessible path are just as good. So, if like BJ, you need to stay there, don’t feel you’re missing out. The sand here works a little like quicksand and it was hard going walking in it.
The fresh air, sightseeing and walks seemed to leave the kids constantly hungry so we visited the kiosk which has excellent wheelchair access and hearty pies perfect for a winter’s day.
There’s a wheelchair accessible bathroom and accessible parking.
Access is easy at Ormiston Gorge and it really does showcase the spectacular geology and landforms of the MacDonnell Ranges. In our opinion, Ormiston Gorge is a must-see if you are visiting the West MacDonnell Ranges National Park.
Leave a Reply