Ellery Creek Big Hole is a classic outback swimming hole. There is a large, deep waterhole set amongst the red rocks, making it the perfect place to cool off after a big day driving through the West MacDonnell Ranges. From the carpark it’s a short 10 minute walk along a track down to the pool, so it’s an easy stop.

Water clarity can vary depending on the time of year, but it’s typically a refreshing place for a swim. Just a heads up though, the water is very cold! There’s plenty of space to spread out on the sandy edges or relax under the trees for shade. The red cliffs that surround the swimming hole feel incredibly dramatic, especially at golden hour.

There is also a campground here with basic camping and picnic facilities, which makes it easy to turn this into an overnight stop if you plan to spend a couple of days in the West Macs. Park entry fees apply, so make sure you buy a Northern Territory Parks Pass before you go. A day pass is $10 per person, or you can grab a two-week pass for $30. The same pass gives you access to most Northern Territory parks.

You can pair Ellery Creek with stops like Simpsons Gap and Ormiston Gorge for a great day or two exploring the ranges and swimming holes in the region.