The 8 best hikes in the Northern Territory

This is the holy grail of hikes in the NT. Starting at either the Telegraph Station just outside of Alice Springs or at the mighty Mount Sonder, the 231-kilometre trek follows the West MacDonnell Ranges across sacred Arrernte Country. Hikers can tackle the whole trail over a couple of weeks with designated camps and supply drop-off areas, or can walk one of 12 shorter sections for a lighter taste of the Larapinta. Highlights include the colour palette of the ochre pits, the icy waters of Ellery Creek Big Hole and the echoes of Standley Chasm.

Drive time from Alice Springs: 10 mins to the Telegraph Station, or 2 hrs to the Mount Sonder, Redbank Gorge drop off 

Duration (one way): 231km (1–14 days)

Level of difficulty: Medium to challenging

From start (Nitmiluk Gorge) to finish (Leliyn, also known as Edith Falls), this hike has it all: cascading waterfalls, sandstone escarpments and monsoon forests. The Jatbula Trail along the western edge of the Arnhem Land plateau has long been walked by the Jawoyn people, and now it is open to a select number of people (15 a day) during the walking season (June to September). The trail starts at 17 Mile Creek, which can be reached by ferry from Nitmiluk Gorge. The scenic cruise sets the tone for the rest of the picturesque adventure. Expect to see ancient rock art, native red-tailed black cockatoos and crystal-clear water holes. 

Drive time from Katherine: 22 mins to the drop-off area at Nitmiluk National Park Visitor Centre 

Duration (one way): 61km (5–6 days) 

Level of difficulty: Medium to hard

If you want to feel like you are on top of the world, take on the Kings Canyon Rim Walk. This track undulates from sweeping views of Watarrka National Park to the Garden of Eden, an oasis of rare plants and rock holes filled with precious water. The first 500 steps are steep, but then it is easier going. Warning: it gets pretty hot in the desert so we’d suggest starting the walk before 9am. The orange and red sandstone looks particularly vibrant during sunrise so it’s worth the effort to go early.

Drive time from Alice Springs: 3.5 hrs

Duration (return): 6km (3–4 hrs) 

Level of difficulty: Medium to hard

Arguably one of Australia’s most spectacular and famous walks, the Uluṟu Base Walk allows you to fully appreciate the immensity and wonder of Uluṟu and sacred Aṉangu Country. Start in the early morning and follow the shade around the monolith by walking clockwise. The ancient landscape around Uluṟu is highly diverse, encompassing acacia woodlands and claypans, and dotted with cascading waterholes and rock art paintings. You will pass several important cultural sites that are part of the Tjukurpa (Dreaming stories), so make sure to respect the restrictions on photography.

Drive time from Alice Springs: 5 hrs

Duration (return): 10.6 kilometres (3.5 hrs)

Level of difficulty: Easy to medium

The Ridgetop Walk is a one-day hike that connects John Hayes Rockhole (Atneperrke) and Trephina Gorge (Alherrkentye). You can start the hike at either end, but locals suggest beginning at Trephina Gorge, walking to John Hayes Rockhole and then following the road back to the carpark at the Gorge. If you want to enjoy a night immersed in the East MacDonnell Ranges, then bring a tent as there are camping areas at both sites. Amongst the rock formations, River Redgums and spinifex, you might be lucky to see a Splendid Fairywren or Western Bowerbird. Come prepared for the conditions and make sure to bring enough water.

Drive time from Alice Springs: 1 hr

Duration (one way): 9km (5 hrs) 

Level of difficulty: Medium to hard

To fully appreciate the beauty and history of the Yolŋu culture, one must walk in the footsteps of the Yolŋu people. Look no further than the Dhimurru Coastal Walking Trail, marked by three short walks from Binydjarŋa (Daliwuy Bay) to Garanhan (Macassan Beach), Ŋumuy (Turtle Beach) and Bariŋura (Little Bondi). The trail takes you from white sandy beaches to eucalypt woodland and paperbark swamp, showcasing the immense variety of land and sea resources in the area, as documented by the Traditional Owners who have provided interpretive material along the route. Experience East Arnhem Land in all its glory on the Dhimurru Coastal Walking Trail (with a visitor access permit from Dhimurru Aboriginal Corporation). 

Drive time from Nhulunbuy: 40 mins

Duration (one way): 7.2kms (3 hrs 45 mins)

Level of difficulty: Easy

The sound of running water calls to you from the tabletop plateau, en route to the Upper Cascades of Litchfield National Park. This sometimes-steep and always-scenic walk takes hikers to the private swimming holes of Cascades Creek. The true beauty of this trail is its seclusion. It’s common to have the cascades all to yourself, so you can soak up the sun, splash in the pools and spot local water monitors in total tranquillity. As hikes in the NT go, the Upper Cascades Walk is a delightful taste of what’s on offer, perfect for beginners and casual hikers. 

Drive time from Darwin: 1.5 hrs

Duration (return): 3.3 kilometres (1.5 hrs)

Level of difficulty: Hard

Over several days, hikers can dive into the wilderness (and plunge pools) of Litchfield National Park, an hour-and-a-half’s drive south of Darwin. The Tabletop Track is a triumphant trail through the bush, along creeks and to waterfalls. Prepare for water crossings, tall grass fields and rocky slopes. Reward yourself after a challenging day’s hike with a swim at Florence Falls, Greenant Creek, Wangi Falls and Walker Creek, which are all stops on the loop route. This is an adventurous trek for the wild at heart and the well-experienced walker. Go forth and get amongst it. 

Drive time from Darwin: 1.5 hrs

Duration (return): 39km (3–5 days)

Level of difficulty: Medium to hard