Alice Springs - gorges, waterholes and red desert landscapes
are humbling. There are plenty of swimming holes, great spots to take a dip and cool off under the desert sun.
Nearby is the original “Alice” spring, a semi-permanent waterhole in the Todd River, after which the Alice Springs town is named.
Alice Springs, the springboard to the Outback, has grown from a small settlement to a mature and colourful tourism centre. From short strolls to day treks, there are plenty of interesting trails to explore here, discovering steep gorges, untouched watering holes and striking desert landscapes.
Right in town, the Olive Pink Botanic Gardens are a haven of greenery, as well as birds, butterflies and other local wildlife. Wander through the themed areas and the bush lands for a leisurely afternoon in nature.
A short drive from Alice Springs and a kilometre or so from the Desert Springs Park, you’ll find a trail leading to the peak of Mt Gillen. It begins at the Flynn Grave (John Flynn was an Outback pioneer in the medical field and instrumental in forming the Royal Flying Doctor Service) off Larapinta Drive.
At the top of the rocks you’ll be rewarded with 360 degree views of the town and surrounding mountain ranges and flats. Go early to beat the heat and catch the spectacular sight of sunrise over Alice Springs. With luck you may even see wallabies, desert birds and exotic flowers.
Gorges, waterholes and red desert landscapes on short walks and long treks are all in and around Alice Springs.