Take a taste of the Central Australian landscape without committing to the whole Simpsons Gap path. The Knoll rest area gives the ride a named destination and a simple plan for the return.
NT Parks places The Knoll 4 km from the Flynn’s Grave end of the bicycle path. Riding there and back is about 8 km. This does not reach Simpsons Gap, which is 17 km one way, or include the 7 km connection from central Alice Springs. Time is a planning allowance, not a measured ride time.
Follow the ride.
NT Parks places The Knoll 4 km from the Flynn’s Grave end of the bicycle path. Riding there and back is about 8 km. This does not reach Simpsons Gap, which is 17 km one way, or include the 7 km connection from central Alice Springs.
- 0 km / Flynn’s Grave end
Begin at the eastern trailhead
Use the path access opposite Flynn’s Grave and check notices before setting off. Follow the Simpsons Gap bicycle path west; do not substitute Larapinta Drive.
- About 4 km / The Knoll
Ride to The Knoll
Take the signed path to the rest area listed at 4 km. Stop earlier if conditions are warmer or harder than expected; keep enough water and energy for the return.
- About 8 km / Return to eastern trailhead
Return on the bicycle path
After a brief rest, retrace the same sealed path to the eastern trailhead. Keep the trip within daylight and avoid adding an unplanned road loop.
MAKE IT A SMALLER OUTING
Choose an earlier turnaround
Try 1–2 km outward and return, provided conditions are suitable. A short ride is still a desert outing and needs the same water and weather planning.
Places to pause.
Along the bicycle path
Interpretation pause
Read a sign while stopped off the riding line. Keep the pause short enough that you still return well within your planned cool-weather window.
NT Parks: cycling distances and current noticesFour-kilometre turnaround
The Knoll
Use the small rest area to check everyone’s energy and water before heading back. Bring your own snack and leave no rubbish.
NT Parks: bicycle path map (PDF)Along the way
Heat, sun exposure and limited facilities make this more demanding than a suburban eight-kilometre ride. Follow ranger directions, and turn back if access or conditions are unsuitable.
These are bicycle outings. Scooter access and e-bike requirements need a separate check for the device and location.
A couple of useful answers.
Will we see Simpsons Gap on this ride?
No. This shorter outing turns at The Knoll, 4 km from the eastern trailhead. Simpsons Gap is 17 km along the path in one direction.
Can we ride from central Alice Springs within eight kilometres?
No. NT Parks lists an additional 7 km connection from the town centre to the eastern trailhead. The eight-kilometre figure here starts and finishes at that trailhead.