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.
- Recreational Activities
- Scenic and Cultural Features
- Ranger Guided Activities
- Aboriginal Involvement in Mining at Arltunga
- Exploring Arltunga
- The Gold Extraction Process at Arltunga
- Arltunga Historical Reserve
Visitor Facilties
Picnic and barbecue facilities with shade shelters and toilets are located at the Visitor Centre.
Camping is not permitted on the Reserve, however camping is available at nearby Trephina Gorge Nature Park. The Arltunga Bush Hotel is closed until further notice.
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
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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Territory Parks Alive Program 2010
Guided Activity:
Jenkins Battery Operation
Sundays - 2nd May to 26th September. 11am for 45 mins
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.
Meet at the outdoor display area of the Arltunga Visitor Centre
Guided Walk:
The Great Western Mine Tour
Sundays - 2nd May to 26th September. 1.30pm for 1 hour
Take a guided walk through the Great Western Mine, 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.
Meet at the Great Western Mine Carpark
School Holiday Activities:
Meet a Local Goldminer
School Holidays - Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays 21st June to 16th July. 11am for 45 mins
Join Gary and Elaine for a first hand account of life looking for gold – then give it a go!
Meet at the Arltunga Visitor Centre
