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Australia: The Land Where Time Began |
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Watarrka National Park 323 km west of Alice Springs. Located about 450 kms southwest of Alice Springs and 280 kms north of Uluru, Watarrka National Park encompasses the western end of the George Gill Range, including the well known natural attraction of Kings Canyon, featuring ancient sandstone walls, sculptured by the elements and rising up 100 m to a plateau of rocky domes. The park is an important conservation area, with scenic landscape of rugged ranges, rockholes and gorges, a natural refuge for the flora and fauna.The spectacular nature of the park has occupied the hearts and minds of the traditional ‘Luritja’ custodians for more than 20,000 years. Accessible all year round, the park is popular in the cooler months of April to September. For those planning a visit, accommodation can be found within the park at the Kings Canyon Resort and Kings Creek Station. TIP For emergencies and safety information, visit the park website above. Attractions Walking Tracks There are a number of walking tracks, most being well sign posted. Those considering the walks are advised to carefully read the information provided before commencing the walks. The Canyon Walk • This 6 km loop, takes approximately 3-4 hours, beginning with a steep climb to the top of the Canyon. It then follows the Canyon rim before descending to the car park. About half way along the track is the ‘Garden of Eden’, a restful area of cooling waterholes and riverine vegetation communities. Extreme care should be taken during the hotter months of September to May. This walk has many steep sections and is only recommended for those who are reasonably fit and healthy. The Kings Creek Walk • This 2.6 km return walk takes approximately 1 hour. The track meanders along Kings Creek, ending at a lookout point, before returning by the same route. Sturdy footwear is essential. This walk has wheelchair access for approximately half the walk, with the remainder of the walk still being suitable for families. Giles Track • This 22 km overnight walk traverses the top of the range from Kathleen Springs to Kings Canyon with an entrance/exit point at Reedy Creek/Lilla. Walkers must register with the Overnight Walkers Registration Scheme. Kathleen Springs • This 2.6 return walk takes about 1.5 hrs and is recommended for families and visitors with limited mobility. The walk along a sealed track to a tranquil spring-fed waterhole at the head of Kathleen Gorge offers a cool moist place to sit and enjoy the areas tranquillity. There track is signed, telling the story of centuries of Aboriginal culture and the recent cattle industry.
Australian National Parks - Northern Territory
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Author: M.H.Monroe Email: admin@austhrutime.com Sources & Further reading |