Discover the Larapinta Trail

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A unique walk through the famous 'Red Center' of Australia. The Larapinta Trail is according to many one of the best hiking trails in Australia and something you might need to add to your bucket list after reading this article. The Larapinta Trail in the middle of Australia consists of several chunks with different difficulties, varying from simple to heavier multi-day hiking trips. This spectacular mountain ridge begins in Alice Springs and extends deep into the outback and into the red heart of Australia. The total route is 223 km.

The trail takes you along the peaks and through the valleys of the Western MacDonnell Ranges. Here you will find the highest mountains of the Northern Territory in a prehistoric landscape full of ravines, cliffs and hidden lakes. Add the mystical experience of the Dreamtime legends, the peace and quiet and you have an unforgettable experience. Do you want to walk the whole trip? This takes around 3 weeks to complete. If you only want to walk part of the tour, there are 12 different entry points for a day trip or two-day walk. The official starting point of the Larapinta Trail is at the Alice Springs Telegraph Station.

Where to stay

If you are looking for a unique and beautiful location to stay with authentic charm look no further and go to the Ooraminna homestead. This is a homestead on a cattle station and therefore out in the bush.

It is simply gorgeous with so much nature around it, dark skies and sparkling stars. The main building is like staying with the family. The only thing that out performs the amazing location is the friendly and amazing hosts who put together delicious meals and go the extra mile to make guests feel like friends. On booking.com they get an average rating of 9.1.

Best time to walk

Given the extreme temperatures this walk is best in the Australian winter from May to the end of September. During the walk you can stay overnight in semi-permanent tents or under the starry sky. Although take into account that the temperature can drop around freezing. And, although it does not happen often, it can rain in the Red Center, so a rain jacket might be needed. Click here for more climate details in Alice Springs.