Ever wondered how to prepare for the Larapinta trail: Ellen’s Story?
When I signed up for the Larapinta Trek with Community First Development last year, I knew it wasn't just about the physical challenge. It was a chance to immerse myself in a deeper cultural experience, guided by Indigenous knowledge and stories that have shaped the land for generations.
Having never been to Central Australia before, I was keen to experience the landscapes, terrain and the beauty. I’ve undertaken smaller multiday treks in the Grand Canyon in the USA, and in Northern Thailand, but nothing to this extent. I wanted to challenge myself physically and mentally as well. Most importantly, I really wanted to learn about Country on Country, and our team of Arrernte guides did an amazing job.
Preparation: train to the terrain and elevation rather than distance.
Preparations for the trek started with upping my regular walks. I’m lucky to live in a beautiful part of Victoria surrounded by mountains and forests, which made it easy to increase my walks in terms of distance and elevation.
My aim was a little ambitious, but I managed to walk 25 – 30 km most weeks. I knew that the climate I was in (Victorian winter) would be vastly different to Central Australia, but there wasn’t much I could do about that. I had a medical issue in the early days of my hike preparations, which was painful and daunting. I ensured that I didn’t stop all physical activity, I kept walking, and introduced gentle stretches under supervision of a physiotherapist, and thankfully this resolved.
To prepare for the physical demands of the trek, I had a day pack that carried the same amount of water as I would for trekking days, and then to add to the weight I carried around a heat pack and a dictionary. Knowing that the terrain would be quite rocky, I sought out trails that were similar so my feet could get used to it.
Something early on in my training surprised me – I did a 12 km walk along a rail trail, thinking it would be good to start off somewhere flat, but by far this was the most challenging walk of my training. It was a good reminder to try and match the terrain as best as possible to where you will be hiking.
As it got closer to the trek, I scaled back my training and focused on spending time with my little boy, as he’s not used to me being away from him. I missed him on the trek but was thankful for the hotspots of mobile reception we had in different spots.
Gear essentials and lessons learned
Thankfully 100% Finke River Culture and Adventure (the tourism company partnering with Community First Development) provided a thorough and detailed list of all the gear we’d need. But even with the best gear, there were lessons to be learned. My advice is to stock up on first aid supplies. Especially when it comes to blister care, as they can sneak up on you. Trekking poles were optional but super handy in the end for going up and down hill, even if you only use one.
Luckily food and water were all taken care of but it’s important to ensure you have a 4-5 litre water bladder as well as drink bottles.
I wish I had bought new hiking boots. Mine were in great condition, but I hadn’t worn them for a while and didn’t consider that my feet would swell in the heat. My boots ended up being too tight, especially on the longer more challenging trails. We had to do some trail first aid on my feet and cut some ‘breathing holes’ in my boots for the last day.
Resources and support
I found some great resources online, including a specific Larapinta Trail Facebook group, as well as a group called Training For Hiking and Trekking. These groups had tips and advice from people who had undertaken similar trips and were a wealth of knowledge.
Community and connection
It was a privilege to walk alongside our guides and hear their stories. Each of these young men spoke at least three languages as well as English and they were very generous with all the trekkers in terms of knowledge sharing. Meeting new people was also a highlight. Everyone from participants to guides had fascinating stories. They all had different reasons for being there. I loved getting to know everybody. There was a wide range of ages and abilities, and everyone supported each other.
I encourage anyone to join the Larapinta trek with Community First Development.
Size up your boots, train to the terrain and elevation rather than distance, and be prepared to be amazed at the breathtaking scenery.