Our intrepid trekkers are all back home now after completing the DSV Larapinta Challenge 2025, but we’d like to share some of their adventures with you.
Day 1
On the first day, the group met up in Alice Springs and were greeted with a blazing 33 degrees so they adapted the original plan of a 14km hike and explored Simpson Gap, Serpentine Gorge, Telegraph Station and Trigg Hill instead.
Along the way they learnt about bush tomatoes and bush balm – bush medicine that is still used today.
Day 2
It was another warm day at 34 degrees, and they were all up early at 4am to hike to a lookout and watch a magical sunrise over the pound. Their guide Immy brought the land to life with stories and poetry as they walked – connecting them to Country in the most beautiful way.
They wrapped up the day with lunch and a dip at Ormiston Gorge, which was a bit too wild for some! They then cooled off properly at Glen Helen Gorge before tasting some bush tucker and getting an early night for the very early start to come.
Day 3
The group were up at 1:30am for an 8km hike uphill in the dark with head torches on, all made worth it when they made it in time to catch the sun rising over the Red Centre from the summit of Mt Sonder.
Debby say, “The wind was strong on that hike – if only it helped push us up the climb!”
The group got to watch the longest shadow in Australia stretch across the land behind them, cast by the very mountain they were standing on. After that wonderous sight, they meandered back down the mountain in the light to see the amazing landscape stretch out before them. Debby said, “Tired legs, full hearts – and a sunrise we won’t forget anytime soon.”
Day 4
Debby painted such a beautiful picture of their final day that we are going to share her words. “It was perfect walking weather with clear skies, a day made for moving across red rock and leaf shadowed paths. From the heights of the Mt Sonder lookout down into the embrace of Ormiston Gorge, the Finke River guided our steps.
“Each step across red rock, each riverbank pause, each gum tree shade has been a lesson in stillness, resilience and wonder. From sunrise on Sonder to the quiet strength of the Finke, this Country has carried us, challenged us, and held us close.
“Our guide Immy’s words of ‘Red Dirty Dreaming’ echoed on the riverbank, reminding us of the deep stories woven through this land. These four days have given me just a taste – a glimpse into the vast beauty of Arrernte Country – and left me hungry to return, to listen, and to walk further.”
How you can get involved
The adventurous group undertook this challenge primarily to raise awareness and funds for DSV and they set a goal of $50,000. They aren’t too far off and you can help them get there by donating at the button below.
If these stunning snapshots have inspired you to get involved in future DSV treks, we invite you to express your interest. You can email DSV’s Communications Manager Lucy Bain at LucyB@dsav.asn.au
DSV acknowledge that this trip took place on the lands of the Western Arrernte People, who have lived on and cared for Country for tens of thousands of years.