Tnorala (Gosse Bluff) Conservation Reserve

Tnorala, also known as Gosse Bluff, is a conservation reserve located in the southern Northern Territory of Australia.

It is a 5 km diameter, 180 m high eroded relic of an ancient impact crater. The original crater was formed by the impact of an asteroid or comet approximately 142.5 ± 0.8 million years ago. The original crater rim has been eroded away, leaving only the central uplift of the crater.

Tnorala holds great cultural significance for the local Western Arrernte people. According to their Dreamtime stories, Tnorala was created during a cosmic impact. The site is considered sacred, and the turna, or wooden basket, that fell into the earth can be seen in the sky as the constellation Corona Australis.

Tnorala is easily accessible and can be reached by taking the sealed Namatjira Drive from Alice Springs. The reserve is open all year round, and visitors can explore the area on foot, by bike, or by car on the 12 km loop track. Respect for the cultural significance of Tnorala and the surrounding areas is important.

Tnorala (Gosse Bluff) Conservation Reserve is a must-visit location for anyone planning a trip to the Northern Territory. Its unique and magnificent landscape, combined with its rich cultural significance, makes it a unique destination in the region.