Serpentine Gorge

Serpentine Gorge, located along the Larapinta Trail approximately 100 kilometres west of Alice Springs, is a captivating destination.

It consists of two breathtaking gorges formed by a south-flowing creek that has carved through two ridges of Heavitree Quartzite. The gorge is home to rare Central Australian plants and features a semi-permanent waterhole at its entrance.

Visitors can enjoy a 1.3 kilometre walk along a service road or the creek bed to reach the gorge. While the walk is generally easy, there is a short, steep climb to reach the lookout. Once at the top, visitors are rewarded with stunning views, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure enthusiasts.

For hikers, Serpentine Gorge serves as the starting point for section 7 of the Larapinta Trail, which begins at Ellery Creek Big Hole and ends here. Section 8 of the trail continues from Serpentine Gorge to Serpentine Chalet Dam, offering hikers a chance to experience the region's most beautiful scenery.

Nearby, visitors can explore the ruins of Serpentine Chalet, a former tourist venture from the late 1950s and early 1960s. Although no longer operational due to lack of water and its remote location on an unsealed road, the site still holds remnants such as a concrete slab and floor foundations. History buffs will find it fascinating to delve into the region's past through this exploration.

Whether drawn by the stunning views or the intriguing history of Serpentine Chalet, Serpentine Gorge is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Australia's Northern Territory.