Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park

West MacDonnell National Park is located in the Northern Territory, Australia, approximately 40 kilometers west of Alice Springs. Nearby towns include Hermannsburg and Glen Helen. The park was established in 1972 to protect the unique geological formations and diverse ecosystems of the West MacDonnell Ranges. The area has a significant Indigenous history, with evidence of Aboriginal occupation dating back thousands of years. Parking facilities are available throughout the park, with designated parking areas near popular attractions and camping grounds. There are no specific fees for parking, but it's important to follow any posted rules or regulations. West MacDonnell National Park is home to a variety of native wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, emus, and dingoes. The park is also known for its population of the endangered central Australian hopping mouse. The park is a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 200 species recorded, including the majestic wedge-tailed eagle. The native flora of the park is characterized by a mix of desert scrub and spinifex grasslands. Common plant species include eucalyptus trees, acacia shrubs, and spinifex grasses. The park is home to unique vegetation, such as the bloodwood tree and the ghost gum. One of the most notable features of West MacDonnell National Park is the Larapinta Trail, a popular hiking trail that traverses the park from north to south. The park also features the Simpsons Gap, a narrow gorge with a waterfall and swimming hole, and the Ormiston Gorge, a scenic canyon with a permanent waterhole. Public transport is limited to the nearby town of Alice Springs, which has bus services to other parts of the Northern Territory. However, the best way to explore West MacDonnell National Park is by car, as it allows for greater flexibility and access to remote areas.