Arltunga Historical Reserve

Arltunga was officially central Australia's first town, born out of a gold rush.

In 1898, alluvial gold was discovered in a dry creekbed downstream of Paddy's Rockhole. Fortune seekers had to travel 600km from the Oodnadatta railhead, often on foot. The area once supported up to 300 people.

Location Map

At the time, Stuart (now Alice Springs) was a small outpost which expanded as it became the supply depot for Arltunga. Arltunga's peak mining period lasted until about 1913, and since then mining has continued sporadically.

Later, many of the Arltunga miners took up pastoral leases in the East MacDonnell Ranges area, and some of their descendants still work these properties today.

Today the remains of mines, old miners camps, and stone buildings (some of which have been restored), are preserved for the public to explore. The Reserve serves as a reminder of early European settlement in central Australia, and Australia's gold frenzy.

Access

Located 110km east of Alice Springs, the Reserve can be reached easily in a two wheel drive vehicle. After seventy kilometres of sealed road along the Ross Highway there is a formed gravel road which heads north into the Reserve. A number of gravel roads provide access to the major attractions within the Reserve.

When To Visit

The Reserve is accessible all year round. The cooler months (April to September) are the most pleasant.

What To Do

Walks: Walking tracks explore the old ore battery, cyanide works, Police Station, old mine workings and residential areas. If you wish to explore a mine please bring a torch.

Guided Tours: Rangers give guided tours of significant historic sites from April to September.

Visitor Centre: The Visitor Centre gives an all-round introduction to the area and the era, even allowing you the opportunity to find some gold.

Picnicking: Picnic and barbecue facilities with shade shelters and toilets are located at the Visitor Centre and the Old Police Station.

Camping: Camping grounds with facilities, including showers, are available at the Arltunga Outback Tourist Park. Camping is not permitted on the Reserve.

Protect Your Park And Heritage

All historic buildings and artifacts, native plants and animals in the Reserve are protected.

Drive only on formed roads.

Camping only on formed roads.

Camping is not permitted within the Reserve.

Fossicking is not permitted within the Reserve, a fossicking area is located nearby.

Take care with fire - Light fires only in designated fireplaces provided.

Pets are not permitted in the Reserve.

Guns and traps are prohibited.

Safety

Walking: Prepare well when walking. Sturdy footwear, a hat, sunscreen, loose fitting clothing and plenty of drinking water are recommended. Avoid walking alone and during the hottest part of the day, especially during summer.

More Information

Parks and Wildlife Commission of the Northern Territory
Alice Springs Office
Arid Zone Research Institute, Tom Hare Building
South Stuart Highway, Alice Springs NT 0870
PO Box 1046 Alice Springs NT 0871
Ph: (08) 8951 8211
Fax: (08) 8951 8268

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