Yeperenye / Emily and Jessie Gaps Nature Park

Emily Gap (Yeperenye) and Jessie Gap (Akngwelye) are two prominent breaks in the Heavitree Range of the East MacDonnell Ranges, approximately 10–15 km east of Alice Springs. These gaps hold great cultural importance for the local Arrernte people as key sites in the Caterpillar Dreaming (Yeperenye) story. At Emily Gap, a short stroll into the gap leads to a rock wall adorned with ancient Aboriginal rock paintings – red, white and yellow ochre symbols representing the giant caterpillars that became the MacDonnell Ranges in the Dreaming:contentReference[oaicite:123]{index=123}. A small permanent waterhole often exists in the gap’s shade, attracting zebra finches and other wildlife. The steep quartzite cliffs framing Emily Gap glow orange in the sunlight, creating a dramatic entrance. Jessie Gap, a few kilometers further along the Ross Highway, features a broader sandy creekbed and another rock painting site (faded) also related to the Caterpillar Dreaming. Both gaps have basic parking and interpretive signage explaining the Dreaming story and natural features. There are no formal picnic or toilet facilities (one pit toilet at Emily Gap) – these sites are more for a brief visit to appreciate their natural beauty and cultural significance. The walks are easy and short, suitable for all ages. Visiting around sunrise or late afternoon provides the best colours on the rock faces and a peaceful atmosphere. As these are sacred sites, visitors are asked to stay on the marked paths and not climb the rocks. Yeperenye and its neighbor Jessie Gap offer a quick but meaningful insight into the Aboriginal heritage and landscape of Central Australia, just a stone’s throw from Alice Springs.