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MacDonnell Ranges (#12 in single image series: Ellery Creek Big Hole)

 

 

This is a very popular swimming/ picnicking spot, easily accessed, just 80 kilometres west of Alice Springs.

It also offers scenic splendour, complex geology, and good walking opportunities.

Newcomers who lack knowledge of Western MacDonnell Ranges’ water holes will experience a cold shock the first time they enter this one.

Hypothermia is a very real risk when dallying in Central Australian “swimming holes”; their water is usually very cold.

However hot this region often is, its night, early morning and winter temperatures are often very low  – not uncommonly, freezing.

Water holes can be deep (as this one is) and they are usually in gorges that shade their waters for much of the daytime.

At least three swimmers have died in Ellery Creek Big Hole, in this young century.

Click here for factsheet and map.

Photo copyright Doug Spencer, taken at 3.30 pm on 17 June 2023.

Published in Australia (not WA) nature and travel photographs