A number of scenic gaps pierce the West MacDonnell Ranges. One of these is Simpsons Gap, site of one of the most prominent waterholes in the region. The area is an important spiritual site to the Arrarnta Aboriginal people, where several dreaming trails and stories cross. At dawn or dusk Simpsons gap it is renowned as a place to see Black-footed Rock-wallabies along the gap's short walking track. Good examples of many of the vegetation communities of the MacDonnell Ranges are found in the Simpsons Gap area, including large stands of Mulga, and the area around the gap is a major stronghold for some of the rare and relict plants of the region.
It is accessible all year round with the cooler months (April to September) being the most pleasant.
The Visitor Information Centre is just past the entrance gate and offers a good introduction for first time visitors. The displays highlights points of interest within the park and provides information on the areas natural and cultural history.
Key features:
- The towering cliffs of the Simpsons Range
- The permanent waterhole
- Abundant wildlife
- A large variety of walking trails and thousands of frogs after summer rains.
