Alligator Gorge

Alligator Gorge grahamstewartwalker (Atlas Obscura User)

Alligator Gorge is located in Mount Remarkable National Park, part of the Southern Flinders Ranges in South Australia. This picturesque, ochre ravine can dry up in the summer months. As time has passed however, Alligator Creek has eroded through the softer rock in the mountain and created this magnificent gorge. Walking among and above the narrowly-spaced cliffs is an exhilarating experience.

It’s believed that the gorge is named after a local Aboriginal shepherd named Ally, who contributed greatly to early exploration and understanding of the area. Lucky for some, there are not real-life alligators swimming in the river.

A little over a mile (two kilometers) walk takes visitors through the gorge from the carpark and back along the upper hillside. There are also two viewing platforms that give hikers an idea of the landscape from above.

A wide assortment of wildlife inhabits the gorge including emus, kookaburras, and kangaroos. Those with keen eyes can also spot a wide variety of wildflowers and various fossilized remains within the gorge.

Know Before You Go

There are two car parks that allow access to the walking trail. These contain toilets, a picnic area, and barbecue facilities. There is also an opportunity to do longer walks from this spot around the national park if you wish to stretch your legs further. There are also mountain bike trails in the area.