Trephina Gorge Nature Park

• Introduction
• Fact file


Introduction

Situated in the scenic eastern MacDonnell Ranges, Trephina Gorge Nature Park is close to Alice Springs and combines excellent walking trails, a great swimming hole and magnifi cent views. Trephina Gorge is noted for its sheer, quartzite cliffs and a watercourse lined with river red gums – at the end of the day the rock glows a deep blood-red, making it a spectacular sight. It is a haven for wildlife and is significant to the local Arrernte people because it is part of the Wallaby Dreaming Trail. The sandy watercourse at Trephina Creek is shady and a perfect place to picnic, particularly in the dry summer months. Nearby John Hayes Rockhole provides yearround swimming but watch for submerged logs and rocks and note that the water is so cold it can cause hypothermia with prolonged exposure. The best way to explore the gorge is on foot by one of fi ve walking trails, ranging in length from 1.2 to 18 kilometres. For fit and experienced walkers, Trephina Ridge Top Walk (6 hours) through to John Hayes Rockhole offers panoramic views of the surrounding ranges but take plenty of water. Those planning extended walks are advised to notify rangers or a reliable person about intended routes. Shorter walks depart from the Gorge, Bluff and Rockhole campgrounds. Water is available at Trephina Bluff and Trephina Gorge. Park rangers conduct nightly campfire talks during the peak tourist season (June to September). Close to the park entrance is one of the largest ghost gums in central Australia, which was lucky to survive logging in the 1950s when trees were cut down to provide wooden sleepers for the Ghan railway line.

Fact file

Camping

Trephina Gorge, Trephina Bluff, John Hayes Rockhole

Location

85 kilometres east of Alice Springs via Ross Hwy

Park Information

• PWCNT (08) 8999 5511
• PWCNT Alice Springs (08) 8951 8211
• PWCNT Trephina Gorge
• (08) 8956 9765

Size

1770 ha

Where to Stay

Ross River Resort (08) 8956 9711 www.travelnt.com


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• Campsites

Campsites

John Hayes Rockhole Campground

A popular swimming spot in summer, this site is accessible only by 4WD or via the walking trail. Bring in your own drinking water to the campground.... Find out more

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Trephina Bluff Campground

Set on Trephina Creek, about 1 km before the Gorge campground at the end of the unsealed road, this site is unsuitable for trailers or caravans.... Find out more

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Trephina Gorge Campground

Take one of the great walks from this pleasant campground at the end of the unsealed road that is suitable for conventional vehicles.... Find out more

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