Wolfe Creek Crater – Overview & Things to See and Do

Overview

The centrepiece of this National Park is the 850 metre wide meteor crater, claimed to be the second largest in the world. Although erosion has taken its toll, it’s thought the crater structure is very similar to what was formed 300,000 years ago when a huge meteor hit the earth. Aboriginal legend has another explanation, suggesting the crater was formed when a dreamtime serpent emerged from the ground. Whichever history suits your beliefs, exploring and hiking around this symmetrical formation in the desolate landscape is a unique experience.

The park is reached via the Tanami Road which runs between Halls Creek and Alice Springs. Approximately 130 kilometres south of Halls Creek, the turnoff to the park and Carranya Station is marked. Although this route is all dirt and gravel, claims that it is easily accessible by a 2WD vehicle are misleading. The road is very corrugated with sharp rocks that could potentially shred convetional tyres and shake a car to bits. A 4WD vehicle is rcommended to visit this attraction.

The park offers only picnic facilities and there is no camping. Ensure you bring plenty of drinking water. The nearest camping and accommodations to the park is at Kururrungka, 45 kilometres further south on the Tanami Road.

Although it has long been known to Aboriginal people, the Wolfe Creek meteorite crater was only discovered by Europeans in 1947, during an aerial survey.

Things you need to know

Where is it?
145 km from Halls Creek via the Tanami Road and access road (gravel and only accessible to conventional vehicles during the dry season).

Travelling time:
Allow 2-3 hours from Halls Creek.

What to do:
Sightseeing, walking, photography, nature observation. Viewing the crater rim is a must. Another spectacular way to view the crater is to take an aerial flight from Halls Creek.

Facilities:
Information shelter, no water available.