Central Australia, Outback History Places

Discovering History in the Outback of Central Australia, Take a tour or self-drive the Discovery Trail.

Some of the many places to visit here when exploring the the history of the Outback of Central Australia: The East MacDonnell Ranges, West MacDonnell Ranges and Tennant Creek.

East MacDonnell Ranges

East MacDonnell Ranges Discovery Trail: In this remote, yet accessible part of Central Australia, you can find spectacular gorges and fascinating landmarks that capture the history. You can even look for gold around historic Altunga or fossick for gemstones at Gemtree. While there, enjoy a picnic at the scenic Trephina Gorge.

Altunga was the first official town in the East MacDonnell Ranges that became established during the 1887 gold rush of Central Australia. Located in harsh desert country, the Altunga Historical Reserve now protects the ghost town and the old mines that dot the landscape.

The earliest of those seeking their fortune arrived here on foot. Located some 130kms east of Alice Springs, you can now fossick for gold with a metal detector.

At Gemtree, you will find the gateway to the fields of ancient stones. There are tours available, where all you need is taken care of for some, with a bit of luck, profitable and fun experiences.

Trephina Gorge Nature Park: You can find a number of short exploratory walks here, you must bring water and if exploring on your own, it is importan to tell someone of your plans.

West MacDonnell Ranges

Pioneer’s Path: This scenic drive makes it an ideal day trip or overnight excursion from Alice Springs in Central Australia.

Along the way, you can explore the historic places of Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm, Ellery Creek Big Hole, Serpentine Gorge, the Ochre Pits, Ormiston Gorge and Glen Helen Gorge.

At Glen Helen Resort you can stay overnight in the old historic homestead and enjoy the nearby walking tracks.

Tennant Creek

North of Alice Springs is Tennant Creek, some 500km distance. It enjoys a rich gold mining history and the friendliness of the locals make for engaging explorations.

Visit the Tennant Creek Tourist Information Centre at Battery Hill, which also includes a mining and minerals museum and the old Telegraph Station.

In town, take a self guided historic walk around the old buildings that date back to the 1930s. You can also visit the new Nyinkka Nyunyu Cultural Centre, which includes displays of both the European and Aboriginal history of the area.

Alice Springs

Alice Springs is the main city in this vast region, from here you can explore the deserts and the other notable places to visit, including Uluru and the Olgas, the Devil’s Marbles and the Henbury Meteorites Conservation Reserve. See more about Alice Springs and the Red Centre:

Alice Springs Australia NT

Alice Springs Places to Visit