40 minutes west of Alice Springs, you’ll find a remarkable rock formation – and it’s not Uluru.
Standley Chasm (Angkerle Atwatye) is an impressive gorge located in the West Macdonnell Ranges National Park. It’s a chalky red rock formation consisting of two walls that sit opposite one another. The Arrernte People are the traditional custodians of this land, and the Standley Chasm is a living landmark of their Aboriginal culture.
The Northern Territory is home to some of the most impressive geological formations in the whole country. Uluru is the most iconic and well-known, but the Red Centre is home to so many other red rock marvels, like the Standley Chasm!
Taking a guided tour to soak up the culture of Standley Chasm
It offers firsthand experience of the cultural importance of this sacred site. There is a spiritual connection to the land, with ceremonies, practices and bush tucker, which all tribute to how the flora and fauna are extremely sacred.
How did it form?
Angkerle Atwatye means ‘gap of water.’ Over millions of years, flooding and rainfall have been the cause of this chasm’s formation.
The constant falling of this water has created a significant crack and has contributed to this interesting rock formation.
Larapinta Trail
The Standley Chasm is also the trailhead for the Larinta Trail, which is a popular hike around the area! The Larinta Trail goes all the way around the West Macdonnell Ranges. It’s a whopping 231km hike that travels around the National Park, and it’s divided into 12 different sections.
Visitors can take a walk through this fascinating rocky chasm and soak up the fascinating Indigenous culture of the area.
Camping around Standley Chasm
There are powered and unpowered camping sites available in some campsites around the Standley Chasm.
You’ll be able to experience the magic of Standley Chasm by fully immersing yourself in it’s magic! Explore your favourite constellations and camp under the glittery skies.
Visiting Standley Chasm
You can visit Standley Chasm during these operating hours:
It’s open 8am – 5pm Monday to Saturday, and from 8am – 2pm on Sundays. The entry fee for adults is $12, while kids get in for $5-7.