Attractions

Henbury Meteorites Conservation Reserve

Henbury Meteorites Conservation Reserve contains twelve craters which were formed when a meteor hit the earth's surface, 4,700 years ago. The Henbury Meteor, weighing several tonnes and accelerating to over 40,000 km per hour, disintegrated before impact, and the fragments formed the twelve craters.

The scattered fragments of the Henbury Meteorite are extremely heavy since they consist mainly of the metals iron (90%) and nickel (8%). Over 500 kilograms of metal have been found on the site, the largest over 100 kilograms. Few specimens now exist in the area.

Access

Located 145 kilometres south west of Alice Springs, the Reserve can be reached in a conventional two-wheel drive vehicle. At 132 km south of Alice Springs, along the Stuart Highway there is a gravel road leading to Watarrka (Kings Canyon) National Park. Travel along this road for eight kilometres, then turn north for five kilometres to the Reserve's entrance.

Care should be taken after heavy rains as gravel roads may become impassable.

When To Visit

The Reserve is accessible all year round, with the cooler months from April to September being the most pleasant. Photographers, who can time their visit for early morning or late afternoon, will be rewarded by scenery in which the sun most clearly defines the craters.

What To Do

• Picnics: Wood barbecues, picnic tables and a pit toilet are available. There is no drinking water in the area. Firewood should be collected before entering the Reserve.
• Walks: There is a self guided walking track around the craters. The largest of the craters is 180 metres wide and 15 metres deep, while the smallest is barely recognisable at six metres wide and only a few centimetres deep. Three or four of the craters can be seen very clearly and inspected at close range.
• Camping: A camping area with basic facilities is located at the end of the entrance of the Reserve. Camping fees are payable.
  

Protect your Reserve

• All natural and cultural resources in the Reserve are protected.
• Take care with fire. Light fires only in the fireplaces provided.
• Collect firewood outside of the Reserve.
• Most of the meteorite fragments have been removed from the site. A few thoughtless visitors have persisted in searching for souvenirs and you will see the evidence of the activities. Such activities are illegal, including the use of metal detectors.
• Pets on a leash are permitted in the car park only.
• Guns and traps are prohibited.
  

Safety

• Walking: Prepare well when walking. Sturdy footwear, a hat, sunscreen, loose clothing and drinking water is recommended. Avoid walking alone and minimise physical activity during the hottest part of day, especially in summer.
• Water: There are no drinking water supplies so ensure you carry more than enough water.
  

More Information

Parks and Wildlife Commission of the Northern Territory
Alice Springs Office
Arid Zone Research Institute, Tom Hare Building
South Stuart Highway, Alice Springs NT 0870
PO Box 1046 Alice Springs NT 0871
Ph: (08) 8951 8211
Fax: (08) 8951 8268