Attractions

N'Dhala Gorge Nature Park

The Parks and Wildlife Commission and the members of the Oliver, Ryder and Williams families (Aboriginal custodians for the site) welcome you to N'Dhala Gorge. N'Dhala Gorge is an important site for the Eastern Arrernte people known as Irlwentye (pronounced Eel-oon-ja).

The shady gorge contains thousands of rock engravings or petroglyphs. These are relicts of the art and stories of their ancient, but still living culture.

The gorge is a cultural treasure house, with over 5,900 individual petroglyphs, several art sites, shelter areas and other sites of spiritual significance.

The petroglyphs are of two styles, the finely pecked and the pounded. They possibly represent two time periods. It is difficult to estimate the age of the art although most has probably been done within the past 2,000 years, but some could be as old as 10,000 years.

Aboriginal custodians for the site now living in Santa Teresa indicate that some of the designs are connected with a Caterpillar Dreaming story.

In addition to the cultural significance of the Gorge, it is also an important site for several rare plants, including the Peach-leafed Poison bush (Trema aspera) and the Hayes Wattle (Acacia undoolyana).

Access

The Gorge is situated 90 km east of Alice Springs along a sealed road to within 7 km of Ross River Homestead. After the homestead is 11 km of 4WD track. The 4WD track crosses the Ross River several times and becomes impassable after heavy rain.

What To Do

Walks: A 1.5 km (1 hour return) marked walking track leads into the sheer-sided gorge. Signs along the track interpret some of the petroglyphs.
Camping: A small, simple bush camping area is located at the entrance to the Park. No water is provided and you should bring your own supplies. Camping fees, payable at the sites are $1.00 per person per night. Collect fire wood before entering the Nature Park.

Protect Your Park

All natural and cultural resources are protected.
Take care with fire. Light fires only in the fireplaces provided.
Protect water quality. Do not introduce sunscreen, soaps or food scraps to any waterway.
Do not touch or interfere with Aboriginal art sites. Heavy penalties apply to offenders. Please report any incidents of interference to the Rangers at Trephina Gorge
Guns and traps are prohibited.
Pets are not permitted in the Park.

Safety

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

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