Beyond Uluru: 5 Amazing Family Drives to Discover the Red Centre’s Hidden Gems
Explore the world beyond the Uluru with this handy guide, taking you and your family on a journey through ancient landscapes, desert wonders and hidden gems.
Uluru is as impressive and majestic as they say, but don’t let your adventure stop there. Travel further into the surrounding area and you’ll be rewarded with hidden gorges, secret swimming spots and sweeping desert views that are perfect for curious families. With a reliable set of wheels from Dollar, you cruise from place to place with ease and confidence, making your trip beyond Uluru an instant hit.
Uluru to Kings Canyon: A Detour Fit for a King
About 3.5 hours’ drive from Uluru, Kings Canyon in Watarrka National Park is a dramatic natural wonder that deserves a full-day adventure—or even an overnight stay. The Rim Walk offers breathtaking views and towering cliffs, while the Kings Creek Walk at the base is great for the little ones. Add in ancient rock formations and the lush surprise of the Garden of Eden, and you’ve got a destination that’s both scenic and soul-stirring.
Alice Springs to Ormiston Gorge: Gorgeous Gorges Galore
A two-hour drive west of Alice Springs through the Tjoritja / West MacDonnell Ranges brings you to Ormiston Gorge. Along the way, stop at Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm and Serpentine Gorge for short walks and shady picnic spots. Once you’re at Ormiston, you’ll find a permanent waterhole, plus easy walking trails and, if you’re really lucky, a rock wallaby or two.
Rainbow Valley: Colourful Cliffs
Just over an hour south of Alice Springs, the Rainbow Valley Conservation Reserve is known for its incredible sandstone cliffs that glow red, orange, and purple in the right light. Time your visit for sunrise or sunset and you’ll be treated to a show you won’t forget. There’s a short walking track, plenty of photo ops, and space for kids to run free.
Trephina Gorge: Quiet and Close to Nature
About 90 minutes east of Alice Springs, Trephina Gorge in the East MacDonnell Ranges is a quieter spot for a relaxed family day out. There are multiple walking trails (ranging from very easy to a bit more adventurous), plus wide sandy riverbeds that the kids will love to explore. It’s also a great place for spotting birds and soaking up the peaceful beauty of the bush.
Henbury Meteorites: Out-of-this-World Fun
Roughly 145km south of Alice Springs is Henbury Meteorites Conservation Reserve—home to 12 craters formed by a meteorite impact around 4,700 years ago. Wander the walking trails with informative signs explaining how the craters were formed and leave learning a thing or two about the world above.
Start Your Red Centre Adventure with Dollar
The beauty of the Red Centre doesn’t end in Uluru. Explore a little further, and the landscape will continue to reward your curiosity. And, by booking a Dollar rental car, you can experience this part of Australia with your family, and without the fuss. So grab the keys, load up the snacks and get ready to discover the beauty that lies beyond Uluru.