Arltunga Historical Reserve

Overview

Arltunga was officially central Australia's first town, born out of a gold rush after alluvial gold was discovered in a dry creekbed in 1887.

Fortune seekers had to travel 600km from the Oodnadatta railhead, often on foot.

Arltunga once supported around 300 people.

How to Get There

Located 110km east of Alice Springs, the Reserve can be easily reached in 2WD vehicles. After 70km of sealed road along the Ross Highway there is a formed gravel road which leads north east for 33km to Arltunga.

When to Visit

The Reserve is accessible all year round. The cooler months, from April to September, are the most pleasant.

What to See and Do

The Visitor Centre gives an introduction to the Reserve and mining era, through cultural and historical displays.

There is a self-operated slide show which offers an insight to the past and informs visitors about the Reserve's attractions.

You can even try your hand at panning for gold in the courtyard display.

Visitor Facilties

Picnic and barbecue facilities with shade shelters and toilets are located at the Visitor Centre.

A camping ground with facilities, including showers, is available at the Arltunga Bush Hotel. Camping is not permitted on the Reserve.

Please Remember

All historic, cultural items and wildlife are protected.
Pets are not allowed in this park.
Please take your rubbish away with you.

Fact Sheet

Download fact sheet

Recreational Activities

Facilities/activities include:

4 x 4 Driving
Picnic Tables
Walking Tracks

Walking tracks explore the Government Battery and Cyanide Works, Police Station, old mine workings and residential areas. Self-guided walks are established at most attractions.

If you want to explore a mine, remember to bring a torch.

Scenic and Cultural Features

Fossicking, including the use of metal detectors, is not permitted in Arltunga Historical Reserve. However, fossicking is permitted in the adjouining Fossicking Reserve for holders of a current NT Fossickers Permit. Permits are available from Mines and Energy or the Visitors Centre upon request.

Ranger Guided Activities

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Parks Alive Program

Download 2009 Brochure (pdf 1.12Mb)

Guided Activity

When: Sundays 3rd May to 27th September

Time: 11 am for 1 hour

Meet: Arltunga Visitor Centre

Jenkins Battery Operation - Witness the old Jenkins Battery in operation and pan for gold with a Ranger. Learn about gold extraction and how different mining techniques have developed at Arltunga.

Guided Walk

When: Sundays 3rd May to 27th September

Time: 1.30 pm for 1 hour

Meet: Great Western Mine carpark

The Great Western Mine Tour - Take a walk through one of the many historic goldmines in the White Range area. Imagine the life, hardship and isolation of the miners around Arltunga and find out how they worked this remote site.