Glen Helen Gorge: A Central Australian Oasis

Discover the ancient beauty of Glen Helen Gorge: swim in its refreshing waterhole and witness the stunning West MacDonnell Ranges.

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Glen Helen Gorge

Glen Helen Gorge, or Yapalpe to the Arrernte people, is a stunning chasm in the West MacDonnell Ranges, 132km west of Alice Springs. Carved by the ancient Finke River, the gorge features towering quartzite cliffs and a permanent waterhole, providing refuge for wildlife and a picturesque swimming spot.

A brief summary to Glen Helen Gorge

Finke River, Mount Zeil, Northern Territory, 0872, AU

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Always walk into the water when swimming, as depths can vary significantly.
Supervise children closely near the water.
Check the water temperature before swimming, as it can be very cold.
Consider visiting during the warmer months for a more comfortable swimming experience.

Getting There

Driving

From Alice Springs, drive 132km west along Namatjira Drive. The road is accessible to all vehicles, including caravans. Upon arrival, parking is available near the gorge. Note that a park pass may be required.
Hiking

For hikers on the Larapinta Trail, access Glen Helen Gorge via Section 10, which ends at the Finke River Trailhead, a 4.5km walk from the gorge. Follow the marked path to reach the main viewing area and waterhole.

Discover more about Glen Helen Gorge

Glen Helen Gorge, known as Yapalpe to the traditional Arrernte owners, is a spectacular natural chasm carved by the Finke River in the West MacDonnell Ranges. Located 132 kilometers (82 miles) west of Alice Springs, this geological marvel is estimated to be 500 million years old. The gorge features towering sheer cliffs of quartzite that glow red in the sun and shift to darker hues in the evening. The permanent waterhole at the base of the gorge is a highlight, offering a refreshing swimming spot and a vital refuge for local wildlife, including nine fish species and migrating waterbirds. Visitors can often spot rare native animals that rely on this water source. The gorge also holds cultural significance for the Arrernte people, serving as a meeting place for millennia. Glen Helen Gorge is accessible via Namatjira Drive and is also a part of the Larapinta Trail. Section 10 of the trail ends at the Finke River Trailhead, a 4.5km walk from the gorge. Nearby, Discovery Parks – Glen Helen offers accommodation with a range of rooms, campsites, and facilities including a restaurant, bar, and swimming pool. From the gorge, visitors can enjoy views of Mount Sonder, one of the highest points in Central Australia.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Mount Sonder

15.7 km

Explore Mount Sonder, a stunning mountain peak in Australia's Northern Territory, renowned for its breathtaking views and exhilarating hiking trails.

Point Howard Lookout

52.4 km

Discover the stunning vistas of Point Howard Lookout, a scenic gem in Namatjira, offering unparalleled views of the Australian outback for nature lovers and photographers.

Macdonnell Ranges

68.4 km

Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of the Macdonnell Ranges, where adventure meets rich Aboriginal culture in a breathtaking mountain landscape.

Brinkley Bluff

73.7 km

Discover the breathtaking views and adventurous hiking trails at Brinkley Bluff in Northern Territory, Australia, a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

My Red Centre

89.8 km

Discover Australia's Red Centre with My Red Centre, your ultimate tour operator for breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural experiences.

Unmissable attractions to see

Glen Helen Organ Pipes

1.3 km

Discover the stunning Glen Helen Organ Pipes in West MacDonnell National Park, a natural wonder featuring unique rock formations and breathtaking landscapes.

Mount Sonder Lookout

1.5 km

Discover the stunning vistas of Mount Sonder Lookout, a breathtaking natural attraction in Australia's Northern Territory, perfect for adventure and relaxation.

Hendrick Gerrit Guth Grave

3.4 km

Explore the Hendrick Gerrit Guth Grave, a tranquil memorial set against the stunning backdrop of Ormiston Gorge in Australia's Northern Territory.

Ormiston Gorge

8.5 km

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Ormiston Gorge, a natural wonder in the heart of Australia's Northern Territory, offering stunning landscapes and rich wildlife.

Ochre Pits

20.2 km

Explore the vibrant ochre hues and rich Indigenous heritage of the stunning Ochre Pits in Northern Territory, Australia—a must-see for every traveler.

Redbank Gorge

21.0 km

Explore Redbank Gorge: A Natural Wonder in Australia's Northern Territory with Breathtaking Views and Rich Biodiversity.

Neil Hargrave Lookout

24.3 km

Discover the stunning vistas and natural beauty at Neil Hargrave Lookout, a must-visit attraction in the Northern Territory showcasing the Australian outback.

Roma Gorge

27.0 km

Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife of Roma Gorge, a stunning natural attraction in the Northern Territory, Australia.

Hermannsburg Historic Precinct

30.2 km

Explore the Hermannsburg Historic Precinct for a unique insight into Aboriginal culture and the pioneering history of Australia's Northern Territory.

Serpentine Gorge

31.5 km

Experience the breathtaking landscapes and tranquil waters of Serpentine Gorge, a stunning natural oasis in Australia's Northern Territory.

Palm Valley

39.6 km

Explore Palm Valley in Finke Gorge National Park, a stunning oasis of unique palm trees and breathtaking landscapes in the heart of Australia's outback.

Gosses Bluff Crater

40.3 km

Explore Gosses Bluff Crater, a stunning meteorite impact site in Northern Territory, rich in geological history and Aboriginal culture.

Ellery Creek Big Hole

41.6 km

Experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Ellery Creek Big Hole, a stunning oasis in Australia's Northern Territory perfect for swimming and relaxation.

Finke Gorge National Park

55.3 km

Experience the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Finke Gorge National Park, a true natural wonder near Alice Springs.

Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park

62.8 km

Explore Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park, a natural wonder near Alice Springs offering stunning landscapes and rich Aboriginal culture.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Ormiston Gorge Kiosk

8.1 km

Experience Ormiston Gorge Kiosk: A Refreshing Retreat in the Heart of Australia's Natural Wonders.

Wallace Rockhole Shop and Art Centre

64.0 km

Experience the unique blend of Aboriginal art and local culture at Wallace Rockhole Shop and Art Centre, a must-visit destination in the Northern Territory.

Outback Stores Papunya Community Store

94.9 km

Explore the Outback Stores Papunya Community Store: A blend of convenience, local culture, and indigenous crafts in the heart of the Northern Territory.

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