Henbury Meteorites Conservation Reserve contains twelve craters which were formed when a meteor hit the earth’s surface. The Henbury Meteor, weighing several tonnes disintegrated before impact, and the fragments formed the twelve craters.
The scattered fragments of the Henbury Meteorite are extremely heavy since they consist mainly of the metals. Over 500 kilograms of metal have been found and removed, with few specimens now remaining. Removing material from the site is now illegal.
The Henbury Meteorites are located 145 kilometres south west of
Alice Springs. Turn off the Stuart Highway onto the Ernest Giles Road 132 kms south of
Alice Springs. Travel along this gravel road for eight kms, then turn north for five kms to the Reserve’s entrance. The Reserve can be reached by conventional 2WD vehicle however care should be taken after heavy rains as gravel roads may become impassable. 4WD is recommended if planning to continue on the Ernest Giles Road to Watarrka National Park.
Although accessible all year round, the cooler months from April to September is the best time to visit. Visit in the early morning or late afternoon when the sun will clearly defines the craters.
Wood barbecues, shaded picnic tables and a pit toilet are available. Firewood should be collected before entering the Reserve. There is no drinking water available in the area.
There is a self guided walking track around the craters, and a camping area with basic facilities adjacent to the car park.
See the website for a downloadable fact sheet:
http://www.nt.gov.au/nreta/parks/find/henbury.htmlNT Parks and Wildlife
Alice Springs (08) 8951 8211