Alligator Gorge South Australia

Wander * Explore * Discover
Jun 19, 2022
3 min read

Updated: 2 hours ago

Alligator Gorge South Australia

Alligator Gorge is a spectacular natural destination in the Mount Remarkable National Park in South Australia. Despite the name, there are no crocodiles or alligators here — the gorge gets its name from early local history and perhaps the rugged, tooth-like feel of its quartzite walls. Over millions of years, Alligator Creek has carved this dramatic chasm into ancient rock, creating a dramatic series of walls, terraces, narrow creek beds and lookouts that invite exploration.

It is located approximately 25 kilometres from the charming town of Melrose. and its a great place to hike, picnic and relax.

Alligator Gorge Walk - 2-kilometre Circuit - 2 Hours - Moderate

This fantastic walk begins at the Alligator Gorge Carpark, where you will see the signs for the walks; there are also toilets, picnic tables and an information board here.

Start by descending 300 steps into the gorge. The steps are pretty steep, but there are handrails and several benches along the way if you need a rest. You then turn left at the bottom of the steps to start the walk through the Narrows. When we began our walk at about 9:30 a.m., we saw a couple of kangaroos to the left of the sign.

Wander along the track through Alligator Gorge, admiring the stunning rock formations. The trail follows the rocky creek bed and along the edges of the creek. Depending on the weather, water can flow through the gorge, which may be muddy and slippery. We completed this walk in May, and there wasn't any water in the gorge.

Enjoy the view of the stunning ochre-coloured walls and the towering gum trees; when you reach The Narrows, the gorge's walls are only a few metres apart. After walking through Alligator Gorge, you continue along the track through bushland back to the carpark. This section is undulating and uphill; you can also walk back along the road.

There are two other short walks from this section of Mount Remarkable National Park.

Ali Lookout is 500 metres (return) - 15 minutes.

Gorge Lookout is 700 metres (return) - 20 minutes.

If you only have time to visit one lookout, I would recommend the Gorge Lookout for the wonderful views of the cliff faces.

Quick Tips Before You Go

Best Seasons: Autumn, winter and spring bring milder temperatures and, in wetter years, flowing water through the creek that adds ambience to your walk. It can be very hot here in the summer.
Access & Vehicles: The scenic drive into the Alligator Gorge carpark is steep and narrow. Caravans, camper trailers and buses are generally not recommended, and the carparking area is not very big.
National Park Passes: Mount Remarkable National Park requires an entry fee, and it’s best to sort this online before you arrive, as mobile reception may be limited. Click here to get your National Park Pass online.
Wildlife & Flora: Along the walking tracks you may spot kangaroos, emus, kookaburras and wedge-tailed eagles, especially in the cooler months.

Click here for more things to do in South Australia.

Click here for our Flinders Ranges Road Trip.

Directions to Mount Remarkable National Park

From Melrose, drive towards Wilmington on the Horrocks Highway (B82) for 21.5 kilometres. You will then see the sign to Mount Remarkable National Park. Turn onto the Alligator Gorge road and follow it for 18.4 kilometres to the carpark.

This road is steep and narrow, with lots of spoon drains along the way. It is suitable for 2WD vehicles; take it easy and drive to conditions. It is not suitable for towing.