Heading north (Fri 1st/8), we decided to do a small detour and visit the two closer (to Alice Springs) features in the MacDonnell ranges that we missed the previous week (thanks to that split turbo hose….): Simpsons Gap and Standley Chasm.
Simpson gap is another beautiful location. We even saw (briefly!) a black footed rock wallaby, thanks to a group of older people who had found it on the other side with bino’s!
Underside of a cool ghost gum tree on the Ghost Gum walk…
We also went over the Standley Chasm. However, this was a privately run place and they wanted $25 a family ($10/adult) just to walk up the path and have a look. Very small money in the scheme of things, but I thought it an excessive cost to go for a stroll up the path by ourselves, and didn’t particularly like the feel of the place, so decided not to do to it on principle. We did however walk to a nearby lookout and take some photos of the surrounding hills. There is something highly reflective in much of this rock, which gives the rough landscape a shine!
I’ve still to figure out the difference between a Gap, a Gorge, a Canyon and a Chasm (if any)??? I guess google should be able to answer that if I get around to looking! In any case, whatever they are called, the MacDonnell ranges have plenty of beauty!!
Nicole do you remember going to these places when we lived in Alice for about 6 weeks one year when Dad was working there?? We went out to Simpsons Gap a few times and even saw those wallabies. I don’t remember having to pay to go to Standley Chasm, its really lovely but seems a bit steep. Must have always been privately owned but don’t think they charged years ago. Really enjoying the blogs, the gems look great and its good to see the boys are showing a lot of interest in your trip. You will have to have a rest day soon!!!! Much love Mum. give those boys a cuddle from me!!!