Northern Territory · Attraction
Corroboree Rock Conservation Reserve
Ancient dolomite, sacred ground
schedule 1 min read / Updated Jun 2026
Corroboree Rock is a striking grey dolomite column rising from the red earth beside Ross Highway, roughly 42 kilometres east of Alice Springs. The formation is a registered sacred site of the Eastern Arrernte people, who know it as Pwenye, and its unusual geology traces back more than 800 million years to ancient salt lakes.
A short 15-minute loop walk circles the base of the rock through native mulga and whitewood woodland, revealing the dramatic textured surface of the dolomite up close. Signage along the track explains both the geological story of the Bitter Springs formation and the cultural protocols that traditional owners request visitors follow, including staying on the marked path and respecting the site's sacred status.
The reserve covers just seven hectares and has no camping, making it an ideal quick stop on the East MacDonnell touring route. Wildlife spotters often see euros, lizards and honey grevillea-feeding birds in the surrounding scrub. The soft morning and late afternoon light makes this a favourite subject for photographers travelling the Ross Highway.
Scenic views
