Attractions

Ruby Gap Nature Park

Ruby Gap is linked with the first mining rush in central Australia. In 1886, explorer David Lindsay found what he thought were rubies in the sandy bed of the Hale River. Due to the extreme remoteness and harsh environment of the area, a rush did not follow until late 1887, when the gold bearing potential of the country was also discovered.

At the beginning of the rush European buyers were keen but as the market was flooded, buyers questioned their quality. Eighteen months into the rush it was found the gems were merely high grade garnets, not nearly as valuable as rubies. Central Australia's ruby boom collapsed immediately.

Today Ruby Gap Nature Park retains its remoteness, providing some of the best bush camping and rugged terrain in central Australia.

Access

Situated 150 km east of Alice Springs, access to Ruby Gap is via the Arltunga Historical Reserve. A HIGH CLEARANCE 4WD is absolutely essential. Heavy rains may cause the road to become impassable. From the Park boundary there is a 5 km drive along the river bed and then a 2 km walk to reach Glen Annie Gorge.

When To Visit

The Park is generally accessible all year round, however the cooler months, are more pleasant (April to September).

What To Do

• Camping: There are no facilities available and camping is permitted anywhere along the river leading to Glen Annie Gorge.
• Walks: Much of the Park's terrain is extremely rugged and is only suitable for the experienced walker. There are no marked trails. Follow river bed and tracks up stream to Glen Annie Gorge.
  

Protect Your Park

• All natural and cultural resources in the Park are protected.
• Take care with fire. Use firewood sparingly.
• Protect water quality. Do not introduce soaps, sunscreen, food scraps or human excrement to any waterway.
• Drive only on formed roads and existing wheel tracks once you enter the Reserve.
• Take all rubbish with you as there is no rubbish removal service.
• Try to leave no trace of your visit.
• Pets are not permitted in the Park.
• Guns and traps are prohibited.

Safety

Important: Notify the Arltunga Ranger or Outback Tourist Park (Arltunga pub) of your intentions before you enter the Park. There is a register of Ruby Gap visitors at the Arltunga Visitor Centre. Please enter your name and remember to sign off when you depart the Park.

• Water: There are no water supplies so always carry more than enough drinking water.
• Walking: Prepare well when walking. Sturdy footwear, a hat, sunscsreen, loose fitting clothing and plenty of drinking water are recommended. Avoid walking alone and minimize activity during the hottest part of the day, especially in summer.
• Driving: Do not enter the Hale River if the sand is soft and wet after recent rain. In the event of a mishap or breakdown stay with your vehicle. Do not attempt to walk back to Arltunga.
• Floods: The Hale River is susceptible to flash flooding following heavy rain. If it begins to rain heavily - get out fast.
  

More Information

Parks and Wildlife Commission of the Northern Territory
Alice Springs Office
Arid Zone Research Institute, Tom Hare Building
South Stuart Highway, Alice Springs NT 0870
PO Box 1046 Alice Springs NT 0871
Ph: (08) 8951 8211
Fax: (08) 8951 8268