Watarrka National Park (Kings Canyon)

Watarrka National Park is home to Kings Canyon, with its 300 metre high sandstone walls, walking trails, relict plants and semi-permanent waterholes. The sheer red rock face of the canyon soars above a creek-line filled with ferns and cycads, sheltering them from the harsh desert, and providing refuge for many native animals. The Park has been home to the Matutjara people for more than 20,000 years, and its flora, fauna and rock formations are best seen on foot. Try the gentle shady Kings Creek Walk trail one kilometre along the valley floor. Get up early to see the sunrise and walk the six kilometres around the Canyon rim to take in magnificent views across the desert and down into the sheltered creek below. The 2.6 kilometre walk to Kathleen Springs takes you to historical sites and a spring-fed waterhole. Fit and experienced hikers will love the Giles Track, a 22 kilometre walk between Kings Canyon and Kathleen Springs. Camping fees apply along the Giles Track and campsites must be booked online before you arrive. The Park can be reached from Uluru in around four hours by taking the Lasseter Highway and Luritja Road. Those with a four-wheel drive can then take the unsealed Mereenie Loop on to Alice Springs.