Mount Sonder - NT

Mt Sonder (Rutjupma) 1380m above sea level is a landmark and icon for the West MacDonnell Ranges. It is the 4th highest point in central Australia after Mount Zeil (1531m), Mount Edwards (1423m), and Mount Giles (1389m). Mt Sonder was named in honour of the German Botanist Wilhelm Otto Sonder. Unlike these other peaks however, Mount Sonder is far more accessible to the general hiker. It is part of the famous Larapinta Trail so the car park and trail head are easily accessible by car. There are basic toilet facilities here along with a picnic shelter and tables if you are just stopping for a break. The trail is also comparatively easy compared to the other mountains but the rewards are exceptional. From the summit of Mt Sonder you will have probably the best possible views of the entire MacDonnell Ranges and can look out across to Mt Giles. If you make the effort to get to the halfway mark at the so-called "Lookout" you have accomplished the majority of the ascent but you aren't rewarded with views until you reach the summit so plan to do it all, or save yourself the effort. The walk is best done before the heat of the day, but there is no point in doing it before sunrise. It can be windy and cold at the summit too so be prepared with water, and layers of clothing. The majority of the steep ascent is covered in the first half of the hike with many steps but the trail follows a well formed path with signage. At the top there is a summit marker built into a cairn pointing out the names of the gaps, ranges, and peaks around you.