Simpsons Gap

Located 23 km from Alice Springs in the West MacDonnell National Park, the site incorporates a number of scenic gaps, including Simpsons Gap, one of the most prominent gaps in the West MacDonnell Ranges. | Location Map

It is renowned as a place with excellent opportunities to see Black-footed Rock-wallabies along short walks into the Gap at dawn or dusk.

Other smaller gaps including Bond Gap, Spring Gap, Rocky Gap and Wallaby Gap are accessible via the Larapinta Trail or Woodland Trail.

Large representative samples of many of vegetation communities of the MacDonnell Ranges are incorporated into Simpsons Gap area including large areas of Mulga. It is a major stronghold for over 40 rare and relict Northern Territory plants.

The area is an important spiritual site to the Arrernte Aboriginal people where several dreaming trails and stories cross.

Access

The turn off to Simpsons Gap is 18km west of Alice Springs along Larapinta Drive. This is a sealed road. One kilometre from the turn off is the Visitor Information Centre and Ranger's Office. The Gap can also be reached by cycling along the bike path from Alice Springs.

When To Visit

The Park is open from 8.00 am to 8.00 pm daily. It is accessible all year round with the cooler months (April to September) being the most pleasant. All roads can be impassable after heavy rain.

What To Do

The Visitor Information Centre is nearby the entrance gate. This is a good starting point for first time visitors. The display highlights points of interest within the West MacDonnell National Park and provides information on the area's natural and cultural history. It also describes the range of walking tracks in the area.

Walking: There are numerous walking possibilities within the area. All walks are well marked with directional markers.

The Ghost Gum Walk: The Visitor Information Centre illustrates the native plants of the area including a giant Ghost Gum. Commencing at Cassia Hill parking area, a marked 500 m walk to Cassia Hill gives excellent elevated views of the range and Simpsons Gap area. The walk illustrates local plants as you climb up to the summit.

The Woodland Trail: Out to Bond Gap, a return distance of 17 km. The Gap has a narrow cleft with icy cold water. Bond Gap can also be approached by walking west along the Larapinta Trail from Simpsons Gap, an 18 km return trip.

Picnicking: Free gas barbecues are available in the shady picnic area near Simpsons Gap.

Cycling: A sealed bicycle track beginning opposite Flynns Grave (7 km from Alice springs along Larapinta Drive), provides for an easy, pleasant ride suitable for the whole family. Take plenty of water and use the coolest part of the day to complete the 17 km ride.

Protect Your Park

All natural and cultural resources in the Park are protected.
Open fires are not permitted. Use only the free gas barbecues provided.
Protect water quality. Do not introduce soaps, sunscreen or food scraps to any waterway.
Swimming is prohibited in Simpsons Gap.
Drive only on formed roads.
Camping is not permitted in the Park, unless you are walking the Larapinta Trail.
Guns and traps are prohibited.
Pets are not permitted in the Park.

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 minimise physical activity during the hottest part of the day, particularly in summer. Walkers planning extended and overnight walks are strongly advised to notify a Ranger, friend or reliable person of your intended route and plans.
Rangers may be contacted at the Simpsons Gap Visitor Information Centre on (08) 89550310. Please do not forget to advise of your return.

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 Australia
Ph: (08) 8951 8211
Fax: (08) 8951 8268