Standley Chasm A relatively short and easy drive from Alice Springs, Standley Chasm (Angkerle) cuts through the tough sandstone to form a picturesque natural alleyway. Surging flood waters over thousands of years are responsible for this beautiful site, which is at its most impressive in the middle of a sunny day. As the light shifts across the cleft, visitors are treated to a magnificent display of colours and forms. The reliable trickle of water has ensured the survival of species from a time when Central Australia was a lusher place. Updated

Simpsons Gap A number of scenic gaps pierce the West MacDonnell Ranges. One of these is Simpsons Gap, site of one of the most prominent waterholes in the region. The area is an important spiritual site to the Arrarnta Aboriginal people, where several dreaming trails and stories cross. At dawn or dusk Simpsons gap it is renowned as a place to see black-footed rock wallabies along the site's short walking track. Good examples of many of the vegetation communities of the MacDonnell Ranges are found in the Simpsons Gap area, including large stands of mulga, and the area around the gap is a major stronghold for over 40 rare and relict plants. Updated

Ormiston Gorge Ormiston Gorge offers visitors all the spectacular geology and landforms of the MacDonnell Ranges. The rugged scenery of the the Gorge is complemented by a near-permanent water hole. The water and the shelter of the rocks attract an interesting variety of native fauna and flora, including a number of relict plant species. The recent rediscoveries of the Long-tailed Dunnart and the Central Rock Rat in the Ormiston Gorge vicinity demonstrate what an important role the Park plays as a fauna refuge. Ormiston Gorge is also home to a major ranger station. There are wonderful opportunities to swim here plus there are full tourist facilities including an information centre. Updated