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Swimming in the clear water of the Big Hole is the main activity. The surrounding area offers beautiful walking trails, ideal for picnics and photography. Enjoy the unique geology of the area, with its stunning rock formations and scenic views.
Ellery Creek Big Hole , located in West MacDonnell National Park , about 90 kilometers west of Alice Springs , is one of the most popular camping, walking, swimming and picnic spots in the West MacDonnell Ranges region.
The Ellery Creek Big Pool is a natural pool surrounded by towering rock walls and wild woods. It was formed by the tireless erosion of huge floods over thousands of years and is considered a geographical landscape of great international significance.
You can wander among the trails. The most popular activity is to take a walk along the 3- kilometer Dolomite walk and admire the various rock structures around you. It is also a good choice to have a beautiful outdoor picnic.
The dry season generally runs from the end of April to the beginning of October . The climate is relatively pleasant and is the best time to travel.
Recommended playing time: more than 2 hours
free
All day
Ellery Creek Big Hole is one of the largest and most popular swimming holes in the West MacDonnell Ranges. The site is known for its significant geological features and has cultural importance to the local Aboriginal communities.
Ellery Creek Big Hole is located in the West MacDonnell National Park, about 90 km west of Alice Springs. The best way to reach it is by car, and there are no public transportation options directly to the site.
Ellery Creek Big Hole is open year-round. The best time to visit is during the cooler months (April to October), as temperatures can be very hot in summer. Early morning or late afternoon are the ideal times to avoid the heat.
There is no entrance fee to visit Ellery Creek Big Hole itself, but visitors must pay for camping or parking if staying in the area. Fees can be paid on-site in cash.
No booking is required for visiting the Big Hole. However, if planning to camp in the area, it's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Visitors typically spend 1 to 2 hours swimming and relaxing at the Big Hole. You may want to allow additional time for walking, exploring the surrounding areas, or having a picnic.
The main highlight is the beautiful, deep water hole itself, surrounded by dramatic red rock cliffs. The walking trails around the site also offer scenic views and opportunities for photography.
There are no specific guided tours or audio guides at Ellery Creek Big Hole, but visitors can access information through local visitor centers or guided tours in Alice Springs that cover the region's natural highlights.
Great photography spots include the edge of the swimming hole itself, the surrounding cliffs, and the walking trails that offer sweeping views of the West MacDonnell Ranges.
Start by visiting the Big Hole, where you can swim and enjoy the views. Follow the short walking trail for more scenic vistas and to explore the natural surroundings.
There are no night visits or light shows available at Ellery Creek Big Hole. The site is best visited during the day for swimming and exploring the natural beauty.
The site can be busy during weekends and public holidays, especially in the dry season. The least crowded times are early mornings during weekdays.
Basic facilities are available, including toilets, picnic tables, and water. There are no shops, so it’s advisable to bring your own food and water.
While the site is generally accessible for families with children, the terrain around the swimming hole can be rocky, which may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors. Some parts of the area have rough ground and uneven surfaces.
Cash is required for any parking or camping fees as card payments are not always accepted on-site.
There are no restaurants or cafes at Ellery Creek Big Hole. However, Alice Springs has a variety of dining options about 90 km away.
As there are no dining options at the site, it's best to bring your own food, and you can find vegetarian, vegan, and halal options in Alice Springs.
There are no accommodations directly at Ellery Creek Big Hole, but camping is available at nearby sites. Alice Springs offers a wide range of accommodation options from budget to luxury hotels.
Nearby attractions include Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm, and the Ochre Pits. All of these sites are within a short drive and can be easily visited as part of a day trip.
There are no souvenir shops at Ellery Creek Big Hole. However, you can find Aboriginal art and crafts in Alice Springs, which make for unique souvenirs.
The best way to continue your trip is by car. From Ellery Creek Big Hole, you can drive to other attractions in the West MacDonnell Ranges or back to Alice Springs for further exploration.
