Finke Gorge National Park

Finke Gorge National Park covers an area of 46,000 hectares, including Palm Valley. Palm Valley has a diverse range of plant species. Many of which are rare and unique to the area, including the Red Cabbage Palm.

The Park lies 138 km (about 2 hrs) west of Alice Springs and 60 km SW of the West MacDonnell Ranges. You need to turn south off Larapinta Drive just west of Hermannsburg, and the turnoff can be a bit difficult to spot. You will likely miss it and need to backtrack once you hit Hermannsburg. Access along the sandy bed of the Finke River is limited to 4WD vehicles only. Heavy rains cause this section of the road to be impassable. Watch the weather!

Boggy Hole

The 4WD track to Boggy Hole within the Finke Gorge National Park and the Ernest Giles Road and Watarrka is suitable for experienced drivers only. Camping is permitted in the Finke River on this route, with the best spot (but with no facilities) at Boggy Hole. This large waterhole often has quite a bit of water in it. It is strange to see various water birds amidst the seeming desert.

The snakelike flexing in the fibreglass radio aerial you see above is no illusion! Keeping up enough speed to cross deep sand sections takes some doing when towing a trailer.

Traffic along the track is reasonably infrequent, which adds to the beauty. However, it is wise to travel with another vehicle (especially in Summer). Before attempting this spectacular but adventurous track, you should look for the latest advice from rangers at Finke Gorge National Park or Watarrka National Park. Boggy Hole is a must-stay along the river bed (click on the link for more pictures of this beautiful oasis). It often has water and is an absolute delight to dive in and cool off after a hot day.

As mentioned, National Parks and Wildlife are not overly happy about using trailers on this track. It is a safety issue, and those considering towing a trailer must understand that it is challenging. Only tow a trailer if you have extensive 4WD experience or are part of a group that can offer assistance if you run into problems. An air compressor is a must… you will need to deflate your tyres to navigate this soft sandy river bed. The Northern Territory, Parks and Wildlife page on Finke Gorge National Park is worth checking out for more background information.