Description

Rainbow Valley has scenic sandstone bluffs and cliffs that are a photographer's delight. These are most impressive in the soft light of the morning or afternoon around sunset. At these times the sandstone bands change from ochre red to orange and purple. The reserve is on the traditional lands of the Upper Southern Arrernte people and is known to them as Wurre. It has important archaeological sites rich in evidence of the ancient connection to the area. Make sure you visit Mushroom Rock, an interesting sandstone formation, which has been carved by wind and rain over millions of years. The short walk around the claypan is well worth it, especially in wildflower season. The turn-off to the Reserve is 75 kilometres south of Alice Springs along the Stuart Highway. From here it is a 22 kilometre stretch east, along an unsealed road which has some sandy patches. For this reason 4WD is recommended, but not essential.