Self-Guided Walks
Take in this natural beauty at your own pace.
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Exploring Standley Chasm is a necessity for all visitors and residents of Central Australia. Walking through the 80-metre-high sandstone gorge which narrows to just three metres in some places is a unique experience with options for people of all ages and abilities. Along with the 30-minute trail to the Chasm itself, there are a number of longer, more advanced trails which are a spectacular wilderness experience for the more adventurous. More information about trail routes (including Larapinta) and conditions is available from the Kiosk.
KEY INFO
Purchase entry tickets at the Kiosk café on arrival or in advance online.
Ensure you wear appropriate footwear (sturdy and comfortable), a hat, sunscreen, and bring ample supply of water – especially in the warmer months.
We recommend all visitors intending to walk any of the trails be of moderate fitness.
All visitors walk Standley Chasm and the surrounding trails at their own risk. Landowners are not responsible for any injury that may occur.
When visiting, please remember that all native wildlife is protected. We strongly request the respectful enjoyment of this sacred place.
BOOK YOUR ENTRANCE TO STANDLEY CHASM
STANDLEY CHASM
DURATION: 30 MINUTES / 2.4 KILOMETRES (ROUND-TRIP)
DIFFICULTY: LIGHT, RELATIVELY EASY
WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE
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The trail to Standley Chasm is a relatively easy walk for most visitors. It is 1.2km (~15 min) each way via a grade 1 access path which is wheelchair accessible. Due to rocky terrain in some off-trail areas, we recommend wearing appropriate footwear and using caution.
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The track runs along the gully and is shaded in large part by leafy gum trees. Although the creek bed which runs alongside is most often dry, take a moment to appreciate the result of it’s lusher occasions; the ferns, cycads and wildflowers. You’ll see (and hear) the diverse range of bird species, and may even catch a glimpse of a dingo or wallaby.
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Those seeking a more cultural and informative Chasm experience might prefer a tour directed by a local Arrernte guide (professionally catered meals and souvenir making included!).
LARAPINTA TRAIL
DURATION: OPTIONS ARE FLEXIBLE (END-TO-END 14 DAYS / 223 KILOMETRES)
DIFFICULTY: DIFFICULT, EXPERIENCED WALKERS ONLY
NOT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE
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Standley Chasm is a trailhead and information point of the Larapinta Trail, a popular thru-hiking track across the West MacDonnell Ranges.
The long-distance trail is one of the most memorable ways to experience Australia. It traverses beautiful and diverse terrain, providing hikers a seemingly endless supply of breathtaking views. Along with Standley Chasm, it passes by a number of other natural landmarks, such as Simpsons Gap, Ellery Creek Big Hole, Orniston Gorge, Glen Helen and Mount Sonder.
Walking the trail is totally flexible. There’s no need to complete the 223km long trip end-to-end with so many possible shorter
options available.
Many hikers of the Larapinta find Standley Chasm a welcome overnight stay, day trip, transfer location, food drop or simply just somewhere to freshen up.
For more information on our camping facilities and amenities, please visit the camping page.
Sections three and four adjoining Standley Chasm (as shown above) are quite challenging and include some of the steepest climbs of the trail, so adequate preparation is absolutely essential. It is advised that only experienced bushwalkers walk the trail during summer months (Nov - Feb) due to extreme heat and lack of water.
Beyond Larapinta, there are other trail routes in the area which offer alternative and magnificent views of Standley Chasm. While advanced routes (including Larapinta) are generally well-marked, we can provide you with more detailed information on trail routes and conditions at the Kiosk upon your arrival.
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You will be required to leave your contact details with staff prior to departure (as required by Northern Territory Parks & Wildlife).
Please note that you walk Standley Chasm and surrounding trails at your own risk and landowners are not responsible for any injury that may be incurred as a result.
For more information on the Larapinta Trail visit NT Information and Services.
