Leigh Creek

Situated to the west of the picturesque Northern Flinders Ranges, the modern outback township of Leigh Creek was initially created to house workers from the nearby coal mine but is now a popular base from which to explore the region's natural beauty and its rich Aboriginal heritage.

Many travellers visit Leigh Creek as they drive north towards Alice Springs and beyond. Excellent facilities include a tavern, supermarket, petrol station, post office and a range of accommodation options, including the new Leigh Creek Resort.

Nature lovers will also find much to delight them. The Aroona Dam Sanctuary offers recreational fishing, spectacular views and peaceful surroundings for a picnic lunch. It also has a beautiful 5.5-kilometre interpretive walk that traverses wetlands below the dam, mountainous terrain, rocky outcrops and red-gum-lined creeks.

Pack a kayak or stand up paddleboard and take the 2-hour paddle trail through a peaceful desert oasis, framed by the quiet, picturesque hills surrounding the dam.

Back in town, the tree-lined streets offer modern amenities, including fast internet and Telstra mobile coverage.

Leigh Creek provides emergency services including a hospital, Royal Flying Doctor Service, police station, ambulance, fire service and State Emergency Service (SES).