
Mount Remarkable National Park Alligator Gorge
Discover the dramatic red rock canyons of Alligator Gorge within Mount Remarkable National Park, a South Australian gem.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for hiking

Mount Remarkable National Park Alligator Gorge
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for hiking

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the dramatic red rock canyons of Alligator Gorge within Mount Remarkable National Park, a South Australian gem.
"Alligator Gorge is a true natural wonder, offering breathtaking hikes through millions of years of rock."

🚗 Road Conditions Alert
Be aware of rough road conditions with concrete ditches, especially for non-4WD cars .
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Essential for hikes, especially the 9km Alligator Gorge loop. Stay hydrated!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Alligator Gorge Short Loop
Alligator Gorge
A 9km hike through narrow, red-rock canyons with breathtaking views and unique geological formations.

The Narrows
Alligator Gorge
Experience the dramatic, tight-squeeze sections of the gorge, showcasing millions of years of rock history.

Hidden Gorge Loop
Mount Remarkable National Park
An 18km challenging hike offering varied terrain, spectacular birdlife, and potential kangaroo sightings.

Mambray Creek Walk
Mount Remarkable National Park
An easier 7km return walk with diverse trees and a good chance of spotting native wildlife like echidnas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for Alligator Gorge's Rugged Beauty
Best Time to Explore Mount Remarkable
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Road Conditions Alert
Be aware of rough road conditions with concrete ditches, especially for non-4WD cars.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Essential for hikes, especially the 9km Alligator Gorge loop. Stay hydrated!
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Footwear
Rocky and steep sections require good grip and ankle support.
🦘 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for kangaroos and diverse birdlife on the trails.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Road Conditions Alert
Be aware of rough road conditions with concrete ditches, especially for non-4WD cars.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Essential for hikes, especially the 9km Alligator Gorge loop. Stay hydrated!
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Footwear
Rocky and steep sections require good grip and ankle support.
🦘 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for kangaroos and diverse birdlife on the trails.
🏕️ Camping Facilities
Clean campgrounds with hot showers and toilets are available for overnight stays.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning, unique beauty of Alligator Gorge and its dramatic red rock canyons, calling it a 'true natural wonder'. The hiking trails, particularly the 9km loop, are highly recommended for their spectacular views, though they can be steep and rocky. The park's campgrounds are noted for their cleanliness and good facilities, making it a great place for overnight stays. Some caution is advised regarding the challenging road conditions leading into the gorge.
"Just stunning. The Alligator Gorge short loop hike is worth doing. It is 9km.
Take water and wear good hiking gear as the steps are steep and it is very rocky. The views once inside Alligator Gorge and The Narrows make this all worth it."
Kaz Bar
"Such a great campground, hot showers & toilets very clean. Stayed 2 nights could have stayed another night due to the walks.
Hidden Gorge what a hike 18 km but well worth it. The bird life is spectacular & of course you get the kangaroos"
Joyce Box
"Alligator gorge was lovely but the road was made unnecessarily bad by 18 nasty concrete drainage ditches which will bottom out most small cars. Driving in is an exhilarating in itself!
Yes, we can put drainage pipes under roads and we know it doesn't take any extra effort compared to the concrete ditches but we won't, because ..... we like to watch people with non 4wd to suffer.
The walk itself was very nice. Currently there is no water in the gorge."
Yunfei Ouyang
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Alligator Gorge is located within Mount Remarkable National Park, about a 3-hour drive north of Adelaide. The road leading to the gorge can be challenging, with concrete drainage ditches that may be difficult for smaller, non-4WD vehicles.
While some visitors have managed with non-4WD cars, the road has been described as having '18 nasty concrete drainage ditches' that can bottom out smaller vehicles. A 4WD is recommended for a smoother experience, especially if you plan to explore further into the park.
The park offers a fun drive, particularly for those with 4WD vehicles. Be prepared for potentially rough sections and the aforementioned drainage ditches on the approach to Alligator Gorge.
Public transport options directly to Mount Remarkable National Park are limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle, making it a popular destination for road trips and 4WD adventures.
Mount Remarkable National Park is located relatively close to Port Augusta, making it a feasible stop or day trip for those in the region.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry fees may apply for Mount Remarkable National Park. It's advisable to check the official South Australia National Parks website for the most current information on fees and any required bookings, especially for camping.
Alligator Gorge and Mount Remarkable National Park are generally accessible during daylight hours. However, it's always best to confirm specific park access times and any potential closures due to weather or maintenance on the official park website.
Yes, booking camping spots in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons or weekends, to secure your preferred site. The campgrounds offer clean facilities including hot showers and toilets.
Typically, no specific permits are required for day hiking within Mount Remarkable National Park, but standard park entry fees may apply. Always check the official park guidelines for any specific requirements.
Park passes and camping permits can usually be purchased online through the South Australia National Parks website or potentially at local visitor information centers. Booking in advance is strongly advised.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Alligator Gorge short loop is a 9km hike that takes you through stunning, narrow red-rock canyons. It's described as steep and rocky in sections, requiring good hiking gear and plenty of water. The views inside the gorge and The Narrows are spectacular.
Yes, the Mambray Creek walk is a more accessible option, approximately 7km return. It's described as an easy walk with diverse trees and a good chance of spotting wildlife like echidnas.
The park is home to native wildlife, including kangaroos and a spectacular array of birdlife. You might also spot echidnas on the Mambray Creek walk.
It's noted that there is currently no water in the gorge, and the creek was dry during late March for one visitor. Water levels can vary depending on rainfall.
Facilities near the day visitor carpark for the Hidden Gorge loop include toilets and picnic benches.
📸 📸 Photography
The narrow, red-rock canyons of Alligator Gorge and The Narrows offer dramatic photographic opportunities. The unique geological formations and play of light within the gorge are particularly striking.
Yes, drone footage has been captured in Mount Remarkable National Park, showcasing the expansive landscapes and camping spots. Always check park regulations regarding drone usage before flying.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful shadows and highlight the red hues of the canyon walls. The enclosed nature of the gorge means light conditions change rapidly.
The narrowness of the gorge can limit wide-angle shots, and the contrast between light and shadow can be high. Be prepared for potentially uneven footing while composing your shots.
A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the scale of the gorge, while a standard zoom is versatile. Consider a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions or capturing the textures of the rock.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Road Trippers & 4WD Enthusiasts
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Alligator Gorge Hike
For those seeking a longer adventure, the Hidden Gorge loop offers an 18km challenge. This hike provides a more varied terrain and is known for its abundant birdlife and potential kangaroo sightings. While the creek was dry during late March for some visitors, the sheer scale and beauty of the landscape remain impressive. Remember to check current conditions and any fire bans before embarking on longer hikes.
If you prefer a less strenuous walk, the Mambray Creek walk (7km return) is a delightful option. This trail winds through diverse trees and offers a good chance of encountering native wildlife, including echidnas. It's a more relaxed way to experience the natural beauty of Mount Remarkable National Park.
Camping and Facilities in Mount Remarkable
Booking your campsite in advance is highly recommended, particularly if you plan to visit during peak seasons or on weekends, to ensure you secure a spot. The park's accessibility for 4WD vehicles adds to the adventure for those looking to explore off the beaten path. However, be mindful of the road conditions leading to Alligator Gorge, which can be challenging for standard vehicles due to concrete drainage ditches.
Wildlife Encounters in the Park
On the Mambray Creek walk, there's a good chance of spotting echidnas waddling along the path. These encounters add an extra layer of magic to the hiking experience. Remember to observe wildlife from a respectful distance and avoid feeding them to help maintain their natural behaviors and habitat.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit