How hard is the Larapinta Trail?

How hard is the Larapinta Trail?

The trail remains unrelentingly rocky and hard underfoot and weather extremes can be experienced at any time of the year. The more prepared you are the more you will enjoy the experience. A Grade 3 (moderate) walk is suitable for most ages and fitness levels with some bushwalking experience recommended.

How long does it take to hike Larapinta Trail?

14 days
It takes 14 days to walk the Larapinta Trail from End to End. Our 3, 6 and 9 day itineraries take in the most diverse and interesting sections of the trail utilising 4WD transfers between sections.

What are the best sections of the Larapinta Trail?

The best sections by far (again not just our opinion) are Sections 4 (Standley Chasm to Birthday Waterhole) and Section 5 (Birthday Waterhole to Hugh Gorge). These sections were hard but the views from both Razorback Ridge and the campsite on Brinkley Bluff were amazing.

How fast can you do Larapinta Trail?

There are 12 sections of the Larapinta Trail. When hiking from end-to-end, there are a few sections that will take 2-3 days to complete, depending on your pace. Only the extremely fit, well-prepared and ultralight hikers will be able to hike this in 12 days.

Do I need a tent for the Larapinta Trail?

Overall, the ground on the Larapinta Trail is hard, rocky, gravelly or uneven, or a combination of all of these. The ground during winter is bitterly cold. Air or closed cell foam mattresses can provide some protection and comfort from these conditions. There is no best tent option for the Larapinta Trail.

Are there toilets on the Larapinta Trail?

It has flowing hot showers, flushing toilets and a delicious kiosk that is open between 10 am – 4 pm. You only need to pay at Redbank Gorge ($5* cash) if you choose to stay in the public campground. If you choose to camp in the creek, next to the Larapinta Water Tank and 150m from the toilet, it’s free!

Do I need a permit to walk the Larapinta Trail?

When you book online, you will need to print the receipt/permit with the unique reference code and bring it with you on your walk from 1 July 2021 onwards. You will need to present this to any NT Park Ranger on request. Rangers will be regularly visiting campsites to check for permits.

Do you need gaiters for Larapinta Trail?

Gaiters are not essential, but can be useful for keeping sand and grit out of your footwear and for protecting your legs from the spinifex. If taken, they should be the short, breathable style – everything gets hot and sweaty enough as is.

Can you camp anywhere on the Larapinta Trail?

The campsites on the Larapinta Trail include all official NT campsites on the Larapinta Trail but you can expect to pay your fee based on how many nights you are out on the trail and not necessarily where you may camp in between. They charge an entry fee, camping fee and food drop fee.

Can you swim on the Larapinta Trail?

The beautiful pool entrance to Serpentine Gorge is still protected today and does not allow swimming, for its cultural significance and environmental conservation. On the 223 kilometre Larapinta Trail, Birthday Waterhole is home to a diverse range of water birds but is only accessible to 4WDs.

Do you need to book campsites at Larapinta?

Yes. The booking system will limit the amount of permits that will be issued. This means from 1 July 2021 onwards some campsites will be booked out and it is quite possible some start dates will also be booked out.

How much is the Larapinta Trail?

Larapinta Trail | Australia’s Premier Larapinta Trail Website. Trail Drop Offs and Pick Ups. No trail fees. Only camping fees in some places.