Emily Gap (Anthwerrke)
Anthwerrke
Emily Gap (Anthwerrke) — Emily Gap](/au/attractions/nt/emily-gap) is a narrow gorge and permanent waterhole in the Heavitree Range sacred to the Arrernte people as…
Natural Landmark in Northern Territory
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About Emily Gap (Anthwerrke)
[Emily Gap](/au/attractions/nt/emily-gap) is a narrow gorge and permanent waterhole in the Heavitree Range sacred to the Arrernte people as one of the most significant Caterpillar Dreaming sites in Australia. Vivid ochre rock art in the gorge depicts caterpillar designs that are thousands of years old. The cool canyon walls create a beautiful contrast of light and shadow throughout the day.
About
[Emily Gap](/au/attractions/nt/emily-gap) is a narrow gorge and permanent waterhole in the Heavitree Range sacred to the Arrernte people as one of the most significant Caterpillar Dreaming sites in Australia. Vivid ochre rock art in the gorge depicts caterpillar designs that are thousands of years old. The cool canyon walls create a beautiful contrast of light and shadow throughout the day.
History & Significance
Emily Gap (Anthwerrke) is a sacred site of profound significance to the Arrernte people, featuring as one of Australia's most important Caterpillar Dreaming locations. The gorge contains ancient ochre rock art depicting caterpillar designs thousands of years old, representing ancestral stories and spiritual connections to Country. The permanent waterhole has sustained both wildlife and Aboriginal peoples for countless generations.
Warnings
Getting There
10km east of Alice Springs on the Ross Highway. Short walk from car park.
Parking
Free parking available at the nature park entrance. Parking area accommodates standard vehicles and caravans. No specific capacity data provided, but typical for regional NT parks. Accessible parking available for visitors with mobility needs.
Nearest airport
Visitor Tips
- •The rock art is among the most significant in central Australia — treat it with respect
- •An interpretive panel at the start explains the Caterpillar Dreaming significance
- •Wading through the waterhole may be required in places to reach the far end of the gorge
- •Combine with Jessie Gap (10km further east) for a half-day excursion
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Quick Facts
At a Glance
Identity
- Traditional Name
- Anthwerrke
- Also Known As
- ["Anthwerrke"]
The Place
- Significance
- State
Plan Your Visit
- Entry
- Paid
- Duration
- 45-90 minutes
- Best Time
- Mornings for photography and cooler temperatures
- Hours
- Open year-round; access road may close after flooding
Location
- Area
- Sadadeen
- Region
- Alice Springs
- State
- Northern Territory
Good to Know
Highlights
Activities
Family & Visitor Info
- Ages
- All ages
- Shade/Cover
- Moderate shade
- Pram Friendly
- No
Food & Drink
Bring your own food and water. No commercial food facilities on-site.
Features
Facilities
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Nearby
Campsites(5)
Attractions(5)
Toilets(3)
Groceries(5)
Fuel(5)
BP SADADEEN
BP · 3.6km
Updated < 1h ago
Shell Reddy Express Alice Springs Gap Rd
Shell · 5.6km
EG Ampol Alice Springs
EG Ampol · 5.6km
Updated < 1h ago
bp Alice Springs Truckstop
BP · 5.9km
Updated < 1h ago
Ampol Teppa Hill
Ampol · 6.2km
Updated < 1h ago
Dump Points(3)
Olive Pink Botanic Gardens
Free · 5km
Alice Springs Dump Point
Free · 7.9km
Alice Springs Showground
Free · 8.2km
Pubs(4)
Fast Food(5)
National Parks(5)
Yeperenye / Emily and Jessie Gaps Nature Park
Nature Reserve · 3.3km
Joint Geological-Geophysical Reserve
Nature Reserve · 5.3km
Alice Springs Telegraph Station Management Area
Nature Reserve · 6.7km
Alice Springs Telegraph Station Historical Reserve
Nature Reserve · 6.9km
Heavitree Gap Police Station Historical Reserve
Nature Reserve · 7.4km