Welcome aboard Nigel. It's always exciting planning these things isn't it. I was going to suggest that if you are heading around the
Mereenie Loop to Kings Canyon, then you should also consider the quick side trip into Gosses
Bluff. It’s marked as “4x4” only and there are a few corrugations but at 6km, a slow trip in is
well worth it. I think you should be able to achieve this with your rig, just amble in very slowly.
The loop road is just magnificent as it heads along the
Gardiner Range (Larapinta Drive). You’ll see plenty of dingos and wildlife. The piles of poo by the road are left by the feral donkeys (just in case the kids ask) and you’ll probably see a few skiting nervously about.
Also on the way in to Alice from Kings, you will go right past Ormiston Gorge which is
well worth a walk along.
Standley Chasm etc can be done from Alice no worries but Ormiston is a fair way out. As you drive in towards Ormiston, there is a great roadside stop that overlooks the
Finke River. It is basically opposite the
Glen Helen turnoff ( a little before it) and on the left as you head east. The
views are spectacular and it’s a great place for lunch. There is also some good
camping places by the fink if you are so inclined. If it’s hot, the kids will love a swim at the Ellery
Creek Big Hole as
well. All doable in a day and on your way.
I’ve just done this trip only three weeks back introducing my mates and their kids to the outback and some iconic locations. I’ve been slowly adding the
blogs to EO under the label “Destination Unknown 2011”. Have fun and we’ll look forward to following your adventures.
Cheers and safe travels. Mick