The East MacDonnell Ranges is an intimate representation of the Ancestors which emerged at the beginning of time and with spirited adventure, created everything that is. Today, descendants honour the work and lessons of their ancestors through oral storytelling, singing, dancing and symbolic drawings. Different to the West, in the East MacDonnell Ranges, it’s a privilege to stand in the sacred space of the Caterpillar Dreaming depicted in ochre paintings on the ancient rock face overhanging a typically dry creek bed. Venture further to more remote country and in a gorge, discover symbols etched in rock. The details known to selected Eastern Arrernte senior men, bestowed the authority to manage, maintain stories and use the information responsibly. At Trephina Gorge, walk mindfully from the gorge floor upward to the blue sky through abundant bush food and medicine flora that will pleasantly surprise and lead you to wonder. If you’re lucky to be here after substantial rain, the Chain of Ponds is exquisite. Pull into Ross River Resort historic homestead, for a hearty meal, coffee, a schooner at the bar mounted on a station stock saddle or relax on an authentic leather lounge from the original Ghan train.