Glen Helen – Overview & Things to See and Do

Overview:

Glen Helen is located 133 km west of Alice Springs. The term Glen Helen commonly refers to the lodge, the gorge near the lodge and the surrounding Nature Park.

Glen Helen Resort offers accommodation, water, fuel, camping and picnic facilities and a licensed bar and restaurant. Set against the background of an exquisite gorge and large waterhole in the Finke River. The Lodge itself is an old homestead beautifully restored after a fire destroyed the original buildings. Some visitors make Glen Helen their base to explore one of the most spell-binding regions in the Territory. The setting is captivating, hospitality warm and meals delicious. Rooms are comfortable. Camping fees apply.You can also pick up the required pass to travel on the Mereenie Loop Road to Wattarka (Kings Canyon).

Things to See and Do

Glen Helen Gorge is another example of the spectacular geology of the MacDonnell ranges and offers a semi-permanent waterhole. Most visitors take the 10 minute stroll down the riverbed to Glen Helen Gorge and many enjoy the swim there. Like all waterholes in the Red Centre it can get very cold (typically in winter) so take precautions.

Ormiston Gorge and Pound consists of the spectacular Pound and the narrow gorge which is regarded by many as one of the most beautiful gorges in Central Australia. Easily the most distinctive and one of the most popular locations in the West MacDonnell’s. The Gorge itself is a deep passage carved through quartzite revealing a remarkably complex folding. This is a breathtaking Gorge with sheer walls rising 300 metres out of Ormiston Creek.

Bushwalking is one of the park’s most popular activities and walks vary from a two-hour stroll along a well constructed path to a three day walk to Mount Giles. The latter is suitable only for experienced bush walkers who must register with Rangers at the visitors Centre. Ormiston Gorge is part of the Emu Dreaming path and the waterhole itself is a registered Aboriginal sacred site. The waterhole is estimated to be over 14m deep.