Ellery Creek Bighole (Carpark) - NT

Entry is via a gravel road suitable for two-wheel drive vehicles.

The spectacular Ellery Creek waterhole is fed by the West MacDonnell Ranges (Tjoritja) and surrounded by tall red cliffs and the sandy Ellery Creek. The site offers access to Sections 6 and 7 of the 231 kilometre Larapinta Trail walk via the southern alignment.

Thousands of years of massive floods have carved out this waterhole, which is recognised as an internationally significant geological site. Take the 3 kilometre Dolomite walk to see the surrounding formations.

The Aboriginal name for Ellery Big Hole is Udepata. The permanent water made it a special meeting place for the Aranda people on the fish and honey ant dreaming trails.

Ellery Creek Big Hole is a popular spot for day visitors right at the gorge and separate to the camp ground. A paved flat path leads from carpark to waterhole only 150m. The water here looks inviting but is always very very cold and whilst it is only a 150m through the gorge to reach a sandy beach on the other side, few people can manage it. Flushing toilets, picnic shelters, gas BBQ, information signboards for walking options.

See Nearby Place for camping details and links.