Kings Canyon, Northern Territory

Kings Canyon is one of the most beautiful sights in the Territory. The canyon is about 230 kilometres south west of Alice Springs, located just off the Stuart Highway. Watarrka National Park holds its secret tightly, revealing little to the traveller arriving at its gates. The surprise comes when this extraordinary chasm suddenly reveals itself as its sandstone walls plunging over three hundred feet into the earth. This is paradise for the serious and very fit walker who can handle the steep rise to the rock domes at the top of the canyon, though the breathtaking views below are well worth the climb. Take note that it is a challenging four hour hike.

Highlights of the park include the weathered outcrops known as the Lost City and a disguised palm grove that lines a tranquil waterhole, affectionally named the Garden of Eden. The shorter, much easier Creek Walk through the valley floor trails for about 1.5 km and should take an hour return. Included on tours to Kings Canyon, this track offers visitors a lizard's eye view to the sky and escarpments above. Kings Canyon is the focal point of the Watarrka National Parkland can be reached using the Mereenie Loop Road (Larpinta Drive) for which a four-wheel drive is definitely recommended, or Luritja Road, which connects to the easier but longer Ernest Giles Road or the Lasseter Highway.

Watarrka National park is home to the Luitja Aboriginal people who have lived in the area for over 20,000 years. Stretching across 71,000 hectares, the national park gives life to over 600 native plants and wildlife. Take one of the number of tours which visit the area and learn about the rich history of the native community and the importance of the region. Don't miss it - Watarrka National Park is often the highlight of an Outback adventure in Central Australia. Don't miss it - Watarrka National Park is often the highlight of an Outback adventure in Central Australia.