Hiking The Larapinta Trail

The Larapinta trail runs for 223 kilometres from the old telegraph station just outside

of Alice Springs through the MacDonnell ranges to Mount Sonder (1380m)

This walk at first glance appears to be a desert walk. However it is not what most people expect as it runs through the Macdonnell ranges which provide for plenty of climbing, and descending through red rock country and dry river beds all providing excellent views.

This trail can be done in about sixteen days or can be broken down into sections ranging from one or two days through to the full 16 days.

The walk is classified as moderate to hard and if doing the whole walk there are sections where two days water supply must be carried. Food drops can be organized to save carrying food for the whole trip.

There is a registration system in place which, although not compulsory, does let the rangers know of your arrival and departure times.

We hiked the Larapinta Trail in June which gave us mostly pleasant days with one day of rain, but nights were cold with temperatures down to about minus 5 degrees C. Although the Larapinta Trail can be walked in either direction we walked from the Mt Sonder end back to the Telegraph Station which is from West to East ending up just outside of Alice Springs.

We had one food drop which meant carrying up to nine days food which meant my pack starting weight was about 27 kilos. However there are now facilities for 3 food drops which makes for a lighter pack. We were dropped at Glen Helen Station and spent a pleasant night there before starting the walk the next day.

The Trail is suitable for all levels of walkers from those that just want to do day trips up to the seriously fit walkers who want to do the whole trail

Hiking the Larapinta Trail Northern Territory is highly recommended.

by: Joanne McMahon

POST COMMENT

Bristol Record Labels Make Sure Your Wee Nipper Does Not Miss Out On The Fun Secret Agent Clank Alberto Ascari How to use Rock Band 3 Keyboard Do More Than Wear your Silk Scarf What exactly is an AED Defibrillator? Top 20 Cleveland Cavaliers: #18 Terrell Brandon Nakshi Kantha Movie Night: What to Wear? Top 20 Cleveland Cavaliers: #17 Bobby Phills Youth Growth Hormone Several Methods To Increase Ones Vertical Leap