Guide to Ormiston Gorge

Travellers are drawn to Ormiston Gorge for its stunning scenery and peaceful Outback vibe, all within easy reach of Alice Springs. It’s one of the best gorges in the Northern Territory, with towering red rock walls, ghost gum-lined walking tracks, and a permanent waterhole that’s a true oasis for cooling off in the warmer months. 

The Ormiston Pound Walk is a big highlight of Ormiston Gorge, Northern Territory. This 9 km loop takes around 3 to 4 hours, where you’ll pass through spinifex-covered hills, ancient riverbeds, and a lookout that serves up sweeping views across the West MacDonnell Ranges and offers plenty of opportunities for wildlife watching (keep your eyes peeled for rock wallabies and an incredible range of birdlife). 

Overall, it’s a peaceful place to unplug, go for a walk, and enjoy swimming at Ormiston Gorge with nothing but desert cliffs and big blue sky all around. Whether you're visiting as part of a 4WD roadtrip Alice Springs or just swinging by on one of your Alice Springs day trips, it’s a standout among all the things to do in West MacDonnell Ranges. 

How long should I spend at Ormiston Gorge?

You’ll want to set aside at least half a day at Ormiston Gorge, though a full day or overnight stay gives you time to really enjoy everything the area has to offer. With options like the short Ghost Gum Lookout walk or the longer Ormiston Pound Walk, it’s easy to fill a few hours on the trails before cooling off in the waterhole. 

What's more, there’s a shaded day-use area perfect for picnics, plus great facilities if you’re camping at Ormiston Gorge and want to stay the night. Add in sunrise and sunset views, and you’ve got a pretty unforgettable Outback stop that’s more than worth the drive. 

How deep is the Ormiston Gorge?

The waterhole at Ormiston Gorge is known for being one of the deepest in the region, with some sections reaching up to 14 metres deep at the southern end. That’s part of what makes swimming at Ormiston Gorge such a popular activity. The deep water, tucked away from the harsh Aussie sun, stays cool even in summer, and it’s usually deep enough to swim year-round. With that in mind, it can be cold, even in warmer weather, so brace yourself for a refreshing plunge! 

How to get to Ormiston Gorge

Ormiston Gorge is located around 135 km west of Alice Springs, nestled in Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park. It’s an easy drive on sealed roads, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours in a campervan, making this a perfect choice for a scenic Alice Springs day trip or part of a larger Outback loop.  

To get there, head west on Larapinta Drive from Alice Springs for about 50 km until you reach the intersection with Namatjira Drive. Turn right and follow Namatjira Drive for another 70 km. Keep an eye out for signage pointing to Ormiston Gorge. The final 8 km stretch is also sealed, making it campervan-friendly. 

While the roads are generally accessible year-round, heavy rain can lead to flooding and make some sections tricky. Always check current road conditions before heading out, especially if you’re tackling a longer Red Centre by 4WD journey. 

Best time to visit Ormiston Gorge

The best time to visit Ormiston Gorge is hands-down during the cooler dry season, from May to September. This time of year brings milder temps (usually hovering between 20–30°C), making it much more pleasant for hiking, swimming, and exploring the rugged beauty of the West MacDonnell Ranges. Plus, you’ll avoid the intense summer heat and the higher risk of flash flooding, which can impact road access and walking trails between November and March. 

As for timing your visit during the day, consider going for an early morning walk if you’re keen to tackle longer walks, such as the Ormiston Pound Walk, before the heat sets in. Late afternoon is another sweet spot; not just for the cooler air, but also for the way the sun lights up the gorge’s red rock walls. If you’re into photography or just love a good sunset view, this is your golden hour.