Things to do in Hugh

Activities, attractions and tours

Photo provided by Tourism NT
Photo provided by Tourism NT
Hugh
Hugh
Hugh
Hugh
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Top places to visit

1. Alice Springs Desert Park

In the Alice Springs Desert Park, just outside Alice Springs, you’ll discover the birds, reptiles and mammals of Central Australia. Learn about the living culture and history of the Arrernte indigenous people who have interacted with these animals, plants and landscapes for thousands of years.
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Alice Springs Desert Park featuring wildflowers

2. Larapinta Trail Trailhead

See the best spots in the West MacDonnell Ranges on the Larapinta Trail. Immerse yourself in the rugged habitat of black-footed rock-wallabies and the enormous wedge-tailed eagle along the 223-kilometre (140-mile) hike. Each night you’ll be camping beneath stars that seem amplified by the desert dark. Wake up to the spectacular colours of the ranges in the morning light.
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Larapinta Trail Trailhead which includes hiking or walking and tranquil scenes as well as a small group of people

3. Tjoritja-West MacDonnell National Park

The West MacDonnell Ranges are home to an incredible array of desert plants and animals. This group of ranges in the Northern Territory is affectionately known as the West Macs and its isolated beauty is captured in the artworks of its most famous past resident, indigenous painter Albert Namatjira. Hike the ranges on the Larapinta Trail. Cool off in waterholes in deep gorges or take the scenic bike trail from Alice Springs to Simpson’s Gap.
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West MacDonnell National Park showing landscape views, mountains and hiking or walking

4. Standley Chasm

Walk through this towering red-sandstone gorge carved out by floods to discover a rich array of native flowering plants, ancient cycads and diverse bird species.
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Standley Chasm showing hiking or walking and a gorge or canyon as well as a small group of people

5. Chambers Pillar Historical Reserve

A 50-metre (164-foot) high pillar of sandstone juts out of the salt bush-covered desert plains of Chambers Pillar Historical Reserve. The Chambers Pillar is at its best at sunrise and sunset when it glows red with the colours of the sinking sun. Don’t forget to bring a camera.
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Located on the north-western edge of the Simpson Desert this sandstone formation is only accessible with 4WD and some driving skill. We went with Outback Elite Tours and were not disappointed. There is a campground and picnic facilities, including some of the least stinky drop toilets I have encountered in National Parks in Australia. There are a lot of stairs up to the base of the pillar, but it is well worth it for the view over the Simpson Desert.

What to do in Hugh

Popular places to visit

Standley Chasm showing hiking or walking and a gorge or canyon as well as a small group of people

Standley Chasm

Walk through this towering red-sandstone gorge carved out by floods to discover a rich array of native flowering plants, ancient cycads and diverse bird species.

Standley Chasm
Chambers Pillar Historical Reserve

Chambers Pillar Historical Reserve

Walk around the base of an enormous pillar of rock carved with the names of pioneers and watch as the sunset lights up the red and orange sandstone.

Chambers Pillar Historical Reserve

MacDonnell Ranges

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at MacDonnell Ranges during your travels in Hugh. While in this walkable area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

MacDonnell Ranges

Owen Springs Reserve

Explore the great outdoors at Owen Springs Reserve, a lovely green space in Hugh. Wander the parks or discover the area's sunrises.

Owen Springs Reserve

Larapinta Trail Section 4 Trailhead

You can take time to visit Larapinta Trail Section 4 Trailhead during your travels to Hugh. Wander the parks or discover the area's sunrises.

Larapinta Trail Section 4 Trailhead

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

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Alice Springs

Alice Springs showing a gorge or canyon as well as a couple

Hale

Frequently asked questions

Is Hugh worth visiting?
Whether you're coming to discover the local charm and cultural hotspots or try regional foods and venture into nature, there are plenty of things to do in Hugh.
How do I spend a day in Hugh?
Rainbow Valley Conservation Reserve is a good place to begin your getaway adventures. Be sure to explore the dining and retail options in Hugh while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Hugh?
The top tourist attraction in Hugh is Rainbow Valley Conservation Reserve, so don't forget to include it on your sightseeing itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Hugh?
Book a trip to Hugh for three days and you'll easily be able to check out its main sights and get a feel for the local way of life. For the chance to enjoy highlights in the surrounding areas and get off the beaten path, consider staying for a week or longer.
What are some activities to do in Hugh with kids?
Whether you're travelling with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, a fun-filled itinerary takes your trip to the next level. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Hugh with kids.

What to do in Hugh for adults?
Adults of all ages will have plenty of things to do in Hugh. Whether you're into culture, outdoor activities or just love finding new places to explore, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Hugh?
With loads of cheap things to do in Hugh, you can experience the area without taking your wallet out. Check out free events and festivals or explore the local neighbourhoods.