Trephina Gorge Nature Park
Overview
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Trephina Gorge, in the East MacDonnell Ranges, is noted for its sheer quartzite cliffs and River Red Gum lined watercourses.
Two gorges dissect the range: Trephina, with its wide views and sandy creekbed, and John Hayes Rock Hole with steep, narrow rock walls.
How to Get There
Situated 85km east of Alice Springs, the Park is accessible to all vehicles.
Access is via the sealed Ross Highway, then a 9km drive into Trephina Gorge, the last 5km on a gravel road.
The John Hayes Rockhole track within the Park is recommended for 4WD vehicles only. Infrequent heavy rains may cause all roads to become impassable.
When to Visit
The cooler months, from April to September, are the most pleasant time to visit Trephina, although the Park is open all year round.
What to See and Do
Camping, bushwalking and swimming are available in this Park.
Visitor Facilties
Camping grounds with pit toilets, picnic tables and drinking water are provided at Trephina Bluff and Trephina Gorge. There is no water provided at the John Hayes camp ground. Camping fees are payable at the sites.
Please Remember
Walkers planning extended and overnight walks are strongly advised to notify a friend or reliable person of your intended route and plans. Bring a topographical map, torch, compass and first aid kit. Please do not forget to advise of your return.
- Keep to designated roads and tracks.
- All cultural items and wildlife are protected.
- Pets are not permitted in this Park.
- The gathering of firewood is not permitted on this Park.
- Generators are prohibited.
Fact Sheet
Recreational Activities
Facilities and features of the Park include:
- 4 x 4 Driving
- Camping Permitted
- Caravan Permitted
- Picnic Tables
- Swimming
Swimmers should be aware that most swimming holes are extremely cold. Prolonged exposure, even during summer, can result in hypothermia. Beware of submerged logs and rocks. John Hayes Rockhole is a popular swimming location during warmer months. However, during prolonged dry periods the waterholes at Trephina Gorge and John Hayes Rockhole can evaporate leaving only a sandy creekbed. - Walking Tracks
From Trephina Gorge there are a number of short walking tracks. For experienced walkers there is the longer Trephina Ridge Top Walk through to John Hayes Rockhole, offering panoramic views of the surrounding ranges and wildlife of the area.
Scenic and Cultural Features
Many of the Park's features form part of the Wallaby dreaming trail and are significant to the Eastern Arrernte Aboriginal people.
The first Europeans to see Trephina Gorge were the forward survey party for the Overland Telegraph Line, lead by John Ross. During the 1950's many of the larger River Red Gums in the area were logged and sawn for use as railway sleepers for the Ghan rail line.
Plants and Animals
Water holes in this area attract a lot of wildlife, including a diverse range of birdlife.
The uncommon Black-flanked Rock-wallaby is ironically the most commonly sighted mammal here. Not so easily seen amongst the spinifex along the rocky ridges are the nocturnal Fat-tailed Antechinus and the large Knob-tailed gecko.
The Park contains the largest Ghost Gum (Eucalyptus papuana) in Central Australia, set alone in a saltbush flat.
Ranger Guided Activities
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Campfire talk
- When: Wednesdays and Saturdays 3 May to 30 August 2008
- Time: 7pm for 45 minutes
- Meet: Main Campground
Trephina's Natural Wonders - An informal campfire talk on the conservation values of Trephina Gorge and how Rangers manage the park. Bring a chair, a cup for billy tea and some topics for discussion.
Guided walk
- When: Thursdays 1 May to 28 August 2008
- Time: 11am for 30 minutes
- Meet: Main car park Information Shelter
Trephina's Cultural Wonders - A Ranger guided walk through beautiful Trephina Gorge looking at Aboriginal art, culture and the use of local plants.