Larapinta Trail, S9: Serpentine Chalet Dam to Ormiston Gorge
Arrernte Country

12 h to 2 days

28.2 km
oneway

↑ 977 m
↓ -1121 m

Very challenging
Starting from the Serpentine Chalet Dam trailhead (1km north of the 4WD accessible car park), Burt Plains, this walk takes you to the Ormiston Gorge Car Park via the Larapinta Trail (Section 9), visiting the Mount Giles Lookout and Waterfall Gorge along the way. This is the ninth section of the 223km long Larapinta Trail. Expect a challenging epic journey high up on the ridges that will reward you with some of the best 360-degree views around. Besides that, you’ll have heaps of campsite options as there are many unofficial campsites along the way. The only designated campsite is the Waterfall Gorge, where there is usually minimal or no water despite its name. Speaking of water, there are no water tanks or natural sources midway, so you’ll need to plan well and carry a significant amount. Besides that hiccup, this is one of the most scenic hikes you can take on in Northern Territory, day or night. Don’t forget to cool off in the lovely waterhole in Ormiston Gorge as well. Keep in mind that the Serpentine Chalet Dam trailhead is only accessible by a 4WD vehicle to a car park 1 km south of the trailhead itself. Let us begin by acknowledging the Arrernte people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present. 
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Warning
This journey requires significant bushwalking experience, specialised equipment and navigation skills.
Please ensure you and your group well prepared and equiped for this journey.

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