The Larapinta Trail across the West MacDonnell Ranges is a hiker’s dream destination. This tough trail has stunning views, rich culture and iconic landmarks like Ormiston Gorge, Hugh Gorge and Brinkley Bluff. Proper preparation is key, especially when it comes to choosing the right backpack size. This guide goes into pack sizes, gear lists and must-haves to make your Larapinta Trail tour a success and an adventure to remember.
About the Larapinta Trail
The Larapinta Trail starts in Alice Springs and is 223 km long. You can do the trail in sections or do the whole thing as a multi day hike. Iconic highlights are Redbank Gorge, Ormiston Gorge and the Finke River, each with their own challenges and rewards.
Why the Right Backpack Matters
The right backpack size matters to your comfort, safety and overall experience. From carrying litres of water for hydration to packing the perfect amount of clothes for cold nights, your backpack should balance function and comfort. With the trail’s challenges like carrying extra weight up steep climbs and desert wind, choosing a pack that suits your trip duration and personal needs is key.
Choosing the Right Pack Size
1. Day Hikes
For day hikes like Hugh Gorge or Brinkley Bluff a 20-30L day pack is enough. These small packs allow you to carry the essentials without being weighed down by a big pack:
- Litres of water: 2-3 litres depending on the time of day and trail conditions.
- Sun protection: Hats, sunscreen, sunglasses are desert essentials.
- Head torch and spare batteries: For early starts or late finishes.
- Rain jacket: For sudden weather changes.
2. Overnight or Multi-Day Hikes
A 40-55L backpack is good for 1-3 nights and can fit:
- A lightweight tent with a durable tent wall and tent pole.
- Warm sleeping gear: For comfort at night in the cooler months.
- Packing list essentials like food, cookware and clothing layers.
- Nylofume Pack Liner: For wet weather.
3. Full Trail Thru-Hike
For the entire Larapinta Trail Sections a 60-80L pack is the way to go. This size can fit:
- Base weight items: shelter, clothing, food.
- Hydration bladder, collapsible water bottle and water filter for water from billabongs.
- Extra clothing layers: insulated jacket, puffer jacket, wind jacket for changing conditions.
- Food drops and high energy snacks for long days.
Packing Essentials for the Larapinta Trail
Clothing
Packing the right clothing is key:
- Merino wool layers: temperature regulation and moisture wicking.
- Moisture wicking underwear: for sweaty climbs.
- Base layer: For freezing nights.
- Outer layer: Wind jacket or rain jacket for bad weather.
- Camp clothes: Comfy camp clothes to relax in after a day of walking.
Hydration and Nutrition
Hydration is number one on the harsh trail:
- Litres of water: 4-6 litres per day, with refills at campsite water tanks or trail heads.
- Hydration strategy: Use hydration bladders and collapsible water bottles.
- Larapinta Trail Food Essentials: Lightweight meals like dehydrated food and protein bars.
- Hot water bottle: For cold sleepers.
Camping Gear
Be prepared with:
- Lightweight tent: Easy to carry and quick to pitch.
- Tent repair kit: An essential.
- Warm sleeping bag: -0°C rated.
- Pack liner: For wet weather or spills.
Electronics and Tools
Be prepared for emergencies and navigation:
- Power banks: For GPS or phones.
- Head torches: For navigating in the dark, with spare batteries.
- Emergency contact details: Always have a backup.
Safety and Hygiene
Be safe with:
- Safety and Hygiene Facebook group: For trail updates and tips.
- Wilderness Wash: For washing dishes or yourself.
- Breathable ankle gaiters: For debris and shrub protection.
- Solid waste solutions: Pack it in, pack it out.
Packing Tips for Comfort and Efficiency
- Weight Distribution: Put your heaviest items (water bottles and food) at your back.
- Don’t Overpack: Prioritise multi-use items.
- Hydration Plan: Replenish at trail heads and carry a water filter to treat natural water.
- Test Your Gear: Before you go, practice carrying a full pack to get the weight right.
Larapinta Trail Highlights and Landmarks
- Ormiston Gorge: Day hike with views and swimming.
- Redbank Gorge: A peaceful spot to sit and take photos.
- Finke River: Australia’s oldest river to walk along.
- Brinkley Bluff: A tough section with amazing views.
Conclusion
The Larapinta Trail is an outback adventure of a lifetime. Choose the right backpack, pack wisely and prepare well and you’ll be safe and happy. From managing the weight to getting your hydration right, every little thing counts on this desert trail.
FAQs
How much water should I carry on the Larapinta Trail?
4–6 litres minimum, more in hot weather or for longer sections.
What size backpack for a thru-hike?
60–80 litre pack to carry all your gear and supplies for the whole trail.
Do I need a water filter for the Larapinta Trail?
Yes, a water filter is necessary to treat billabong and natural water.
What clothes for cold nights?
Merino wool layers, puffer jacket and warm sleeping bag rated to -10°C.
Do I need food drops?
Food drops are highly recommended for longer hikes to lighten the load and have enough supplies.