Fact Sheets & Video - Northern Territory

The Larapinta trail is an extended walking track in the Northern Territory, Australia and is regarded by some as one of Australia's greatest walks.

Whether you're a keen bushwalker seeking the challenge of trekking the trail's entire 223km, or you just want to experience the highlights of the West MacDonnell Ranges the Larapinta Trail will take you off the beaten track, on a mesmerising journey through ancient mountains, along high, exposed ridgelines and deep, sheltered gorges.

The Trail runs from East to West, along the backbone of the West MacDonnell, running sometimes along the ridge line, other times on the plain below, in the West MacDonnell National Park.

The grandeur and timeless beauty of the Ranges are the backdrop and setting for the Trail, which is divided into twelve sections, providing walkers with an opportunity to experience an ancient landscape at their own pace. The walk harbours many aboriginal sacred sites of the Arrernte tribe, which has allowed tourists to visit them. In the 1990s the walk was only half as long, with the section between Mount Sonder and Ellery Big Hole completed at the turn of the millennium. The trail is very well marked with kilometre posts marking both the distance to the next campsite or section as well as the total length of the walk to go. There is a published leaflet that details the requirements and attractions of completing each of the twelve sections and notice boards at the transition of each section. These notice boards also show elevation graphs of the walk and alert walkers to potential dangers.

There is a reasonable amount of water along the track, both naturally found and trucked in. There are only one or two places in which water cannot be obtained throughout the day, with frequent storage tanks. No fires are allowed along the walk.

Each section of the Trail has its own character and appeal, and different sections are suitable for different levels of experience. The Trail also links the Park's attractions, using these as access points where walkers may start or end their adventure. Walkers can join or leave the Trail at a number of points accessible to motor vehicles at regular intervals along its route. In effect, it comprises a series of shorter sections, each a one or two day walk. In thisway people can choose the length of time spent on the Trail.

Campsites, including some minor facilities, have been developed on the more frequently used sections of the Trail. Elsewhere recommended spots for camping are identified, but no facilities are provided. The Trail is signposted with direction markers, especially at major track junctions, crossing points, spur takeoffs and other possible points of confusion.

World Expeditions World Expeditions offer a choice of 3 - 14 day treks with a 'fully supported' itinerary that includes expert guides and a support team to transfer your gear and set up camp for the night.

They supply well equipped camping trailers, large water tanks, swags, tents, all meals and of course experienced guides.

The guides prepare all the meals and run the camp, with participation by the trekkers which adds to their experience.

Trekkers are met each evening at a new campsite that has been reached by support staff in advance of the trekkers.

So all you have to worry about is taking in the expansive vistas the trek has to offer.

Further Information:

World Expeditions

Larapinta Experience

3, 7 & 14 day treks departing between April and September ex Alice Springs

Including all food, equipment, professional guides and transportation

1300 720 000

www.worldexpeditions.com

Alice Springs Helicopters

Offer scenic flights ranging from 10mins to a half day trip

1300 669 225

www.alicespringshelicopters.com.au