A suggested travel guide to Glen Helen Homestead from Alice Springs
Temporarily closed (updated 19.07.2024)
Closed accommodation - you need to call the Homestead for updates
(08) 8956 7208
Email. glenhelen@discoveryparks.com.au.
https://nt.gov.au/parks/find-a-park/tjoritja-west-macdonnell-national-park/larapinta-trail/larapinta-trail-current-conditions
Discovery - Extract April 2024
Parks Glen Helen is closed until further notice. This includes food, fuel, camping and accommodation. Access to Glen Helen Gorge is available via an alternate walking trail from the Glen Helen entry road.
The Mereenie Loop
The Mereenie Loop is suitable for 4WDs not for 2WDs. Permits are available from Ayers Rock Tourism Central Australia Desk in the Tourist Information Centre located in the Resort town Square , Kings Creek Station & Kings Canyon Discovery Park. If travelling from Alice Springs the permit is available from the Alice Springs Visitor Information Centre, Standley Chasm & Hermannsburg.
The road is clay based with corrugation and potholes, it is very rarely graded and does become chopped up as the season progresses. It is 160 kms of which 134.5 kms is unsealed travelling from the West MacDonnell Ranges to Kings Canyon or Visa Versa. Permits must be purchased in person by the principal driver, they are valid for 3 days from the date of purchase and require all car details such as car registration, colour & vehicle type.
The alternate route is via the Stuart Highway, Lasseter Highway & Luritja RD – 485 kms – travelling time approx. 5 hours.
Temporarily closed (updated 19.07.2024)
Glen Helen Homestead is a popular destination located approximately 132 kilometers west of Alice Springs in the West MacDonnell Ranges of the Northern Territory, Australia. Here's a suggested travel guide to help you plan your trip from Alice Springs: Namatjira Drive West MacDonnell Ranges Via, Alice Springs NT 0872. Set in West MacDonnell National Park adjacent to the Finke River, this unfussy lodge is also 11 km from the scenic Ormiston Gorge.
Transportation: The best way to get to Glen Helen Homestead is by car. You can either rent a campervan, motorhome or 4wd car from Australia 4wd rentals in Alice Springs or join a guided tour that includes transportation to and from the homestead.
Route: Take Larapinta Drive out of Alice Springs towards the West MacDonnell Ranges. After approximately 132 kilometers, you will reach the turnoff to Glen Helen Gorge. Turn left onto Namatjira Drive and follow it for about 3 kilometers until you reach the homestead.
Accommodation: The Glen Helen Homestead Lodge is a popular accommodation option for visitors to the area. The lodge offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant and bar, and a swimming pool. There are also campsites available for those who prefer to camp.
Activities: There are several activities to enjoy in and around Glen Helen Homestead. These include:
Hiking: There are several hiking trails in the area, including the Ghost Gum Walk and the Glen Helen Gorge Walk.
Swimming: Glen Helen Gorge is a popular spot for swimming and cooling off on a hot day.
Wildlife spotting: Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as rock wallabies, dingoes, and various bird species.
Cultural experiences: The homestead offers cultural experiences such as guided walks with local Indigenous guides and cultural talks.
Scenic drives: Take a scenic drive along the Red Centre Way to see some of the region's stunning landscapes and attractions such as Ormiston Gorge, Standley Chasm and Ellery Creek Big Hole.
When to go: The best time to visit Glen Helen Homestead is during the cooler months from May to September, when temperatures are more moderate and conditions are ideal for outdoor activities. However, if you prefer warmer weather, you can also visit during the summer months from October to April.
I hope this suggested travel guide helps you plan your trip to Glen Helen Homestead from Alice Springs. Enjoy your trip!
Yes, Glen Helen Homestead offers powered camping sites for visitors who are traveling with caravans, campervans, or other types of RVs. The powered sites are located in a separate area from the unpowered sites, and they feature electric hookups, as well as access to amenities such as showers, toilets, and BBQ facilities. The campground also has a communal kitchen, laundry facilities, and a campfire area where you can enjoy the evening under the stars. It's recommended to book your site in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability. Very limited you must book ahead.
https://nt.gov.au/parks/find-a-park/tjoritja-west-macdonnell-national-park
Image courtesy Tourism NT
http://www.macdonnellranges.com/Glen-Helen-Lodge-accommodation-visitors-information-guide.htm