At 7:30am we had breakfast in our very family-run B&B - that was the latest possible time and was commented on with "Oh, you probably want to sleep in." We could have had breakfast at 5am. Australians are apparently all early risers. After breakfast we drove off on the Larapinta Highway into the West MacDonnel Ranges back to the two sights we had missed yesterday. Our first stop was Simpsons Gap. With the temperature still cool we walked the short trail with great views of the red rocks and reflections in the water. Unfortunately none of the rock wallabies that live there showed up. Simpsons Gab
We continued to Standley Chasm, a narrow crevice in the rocks. There was also a short trail here.
Steep rock faces of Standley Chasm Since it was not even midday yet, we decided to take a look at a small part of the East MacDonnel Ranges. So we drove past Alice Springs and headed east on the Ross Highway. Ross Highway
After we arrived at Trephiba Gorge, we stopped for lunch. Then we walked the short Trephina Rim Trail. The gorge was interesting, but not as impressive as the others.
We then continued to Jessie and Emily Gap, where there was also a short trail. These were also nice, but very similar to the others.
Jessie Gap Emily Gap
After we were back in Alice Springs, we visited the Royal Flying Doctor Service, which has a small museum about its history and work.
RFDS aircraft model Pedal-operated radio transmitter Emergency kit for medical care in the outback We spent the evening packing our suitcases again - tomorrow we're heading north.
For the statistics: Accommodation: Kathys Place B&B, Alice Springs Distance travelled: 301 km Walked: 7 km Weather: Sun at 20°C, morning -1°C
