Kata Tjuta Sun Rise and Walk, Petermann NT, Australia
Kata Tjuṯa, also known as the Olgas, is a remarkable formation of 36 domed rocks located within the Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park in Australia’s Northern Territory. 1061
Kata Tjuṯa Dune Viewing Area: Petermann NT 0872, Australia
Walpa Gorge: Petermann NT 0872, Australia
Date Picture Taken: March, 2025
There are two popular hiking trails in the region. Â
The premier hiking trail at Kata Tjuṯa is the Valley of the Winds Walk, which provides an immersive journey through the heart of these majestic domes. This circuit is approximately 7.4 kilometers (4.6 miles) long and typically requires 3 to 4 hours to complete. Classified as a Grade 4 track, it features steep and rocky sections that can be challenging, so caution and sturdy footwear are essential.
An alternative to the Valley of the Winds is the Walpa Gorge Walk, a less strenuous option that spans 2.6 kilometers (1.6 miles) round trip and takes about an hour to complete. This trail leads hikers between towering domes into a serene, narrow valley, showcasing the area’s unique flora and geological formations.
From the Yulara hotel area (including places like Sails in the Desert, Desert Gardens, and Outback Pioneer), it is about 31 miles away and takes 45 minutes to drive.
Before starting the trail, the shuttle bus took us to the Kata Tjuṯa Dune Viewing Area at sunrise, where we watched the sun rise over Uluru.
The view of Kata Tjuta Dunes
Walking back to the shuttle bus
“This is the starting point of the Walpa Gorge Walk. I chose this hike over the more popular Valley of the Winds Walk because it’s less strenuous.”
This trail leads hikers between two towering domes.
View behind me
This trail continued down toward the tree-filled area ahead, but I turned back from here to catch the shuttle bus in time.
I turned around and started to walk back
View behind me
More hikers are walking the trail
View behind me
