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Why do people go to Ellery Creek Big Hole?
Ellery Creek Big Hole is the kind of place you stumble across and wonder how it’s not more famous. Nestled in the heart of the West MacDonnell Ranges, this striking waterhole has been carved over millions of years by floodwaters cutting through the surrounding red rock. The result? A deep, calm pool surrounded by towering cliffs and ghost gums.
It’s a favourite among travellers looking for attractions near Alice Springs, thanks to its easy 2WD-friendly access. Some come for a quick swim and photo, others unpack the esky for a picnic, while others lace up their boots to wander the Dolomite Walk (easily the most popular Ellery Creek Hole walk). In short, there are plenty of reasons to add Ellery Creek Big Hole to your West Macdonnell Ranges itinerary.
How long should I spend at Ellery Creek Big Hole?
You could easily spend a good hour or two here, depending on how you’re planning to spend your time. Most visitors stop for around 1–2 hours, which gives you just enough time for a swim, a walk, and a bit of chill-out time by the water. If you’re breaking up a long drive along the Red Centre road trip, it’s a great way to reset and soak up some of the Outback’s natural magic.
If you’ve got more time, you could opt to stay overnight at the nearby campground and experience this gem after dark (more on that below). Waking up and having the place almost to yourself at sunrise? That’s something special.
Where is the big hole in Ellery Creek?
The “big hole” in Ellery Creek Big Hole is exactly what it sounds like, a wide, permanent waterhole carved out by millions of years of erosion as Ellery Creek winds its way through the West MacDonnell Ranges. It’s about 80 km west of Alice Springs, making it an easy addition for anyone looking to explore the best attractions near Alice Springs.
The waterhole itself sits right at the end of a short, wheelchair-accessible track from the car park. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and sandy banks, it’s a jaw-dropping spot that feels straight out of a dream. Whether you’re keen on swimming, taking photos, or just soaking up the stillness, this is one of those places that is well worth battling the red desert dust to experience.
How to get to Ellery Creek Big Hole
Getting to Ellery Creek Big Hole, Australia, from Alice Springs, head west on Larapinta Drive, which becomes Namatjira Drive after about 45 km. Continue for another 40 km or so, and keep an eye out for the clearly marked turn-off to Ellery Creek Big Hole. From there, it’s a short 2 km drive along a graded unsealed road that’s usually accessible by 2WD, though always check conditions if it's been wet. Once you arrive, you’ll find a well-maintained rest area with signs, a car park, and short walking tracks leading straight to the waterhole.
Best time to visit Ellery Creek Big Hole
The best time to visit Ellery Creek Big Hole is during the dry season, between May and September. Daytime temps are comfy (around 20–30°C), skies are generally clear, and the water is super inviting after a morning on the road. It’s also the ideal time to tackle the Dolomite Walk without feeling like you’re roasting under the sun.
If you’re chasing that golden Outback glow, aim to arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Not only is it cooler and quieter, but the soft light bouncing off the cliffs makes for some unreal photos. Plus, you might just get lucky enough to have the place all to yourself for a peaceful dip or sunrise cuppa.
Weather at Ellery Creek Big Hole
Like much of the Red Centre, Ellery Creek Big Hole enjoys a semi-arid climate. Summer (December to February) can be scorching, with daytime temperatures regularly hitting 35°C or higher, which is great for a swim but tough for hiking. Winter (June to August) brings cooler days (around 20°C) and chilly nights, sometimes dipping to 5°C or lower, so pack those layers if you’re planning to camp.
Overall, rain is rare year-round, although January and February tend to receive the most, with an annual average precipitation of approximately 266 mm. Safe to say, Ellery Creek Big Hole is a pretty safe bet for blue skies and solid campervan weather almost any time of year.
Best place to park your campervan at Ellery Creek Big Hole
Travelling in a campervan? Too easy. You can pull straight into the Ellery Creek Campground, which has 10 designated sites suitable for campervans, caravans, and tents. It’s about a 5-minute walk from the campground to the waterhole, so you can roll out of bed and into the water without much effort.
Facilities include flushing toilets, gas barbecues, picnic tables, and a central shelter; all of the essentials for a comfortable overnight stay. Be aware that there’s no power or drinking water when camping at Ellery Creek Big Hole, so make sure you’re topped up and self-contained. That said, with a little preparation, camping here gives you front-row seats to one of the best swimming holes in the Northern Territory, and that’s a pretty dreamy way to spend a night in the West Macs if we do say so ourselves!
Road trips that pass through