We got up before the sun to catch the sunrise at Kata-Tjuta. Kata-Tjuta is basically the forgotten stepbrother of Uluru and is pretty underrated. It’s a 45-minute drive to get there. It’s a long series of rocks similar to Uluru. We got to this viewing area at right about first light. There were a lot of people there, but not as much as I imagine
Kata-Tjuta at Sunrise 
Valley of the Winds
After sunrise, we took a hike at Kata Tjuta at the Valley of the Winds (mystical name, right?). The hike was really great because it took you into the middle of the formation and through the valleys. It’s about 5k round trip; and, as the name fits, the valley was pretty windy at many points along the hike, there was no track so you are literally climbing rocks. At the turnaround point, there was an actual breathtaking view. It’s a steep hike to the lookout so you get up there completely out of breath. The track goes on for another couple km to make a full loop, but we were concerned about time, so we didn’t continue. Once we finished the hike, we left the park and headed to the campground to check out (which we realized we didn’t have to do).
We then made our way to Kings Canyon, located in Wattarka National Park, about a 3-4 hour drive NE from Uluru. We arrived around 2 and embarked on the King’s Canyon Rim Walk. Usually, moderate to difficult walks are prohibited after 11 am when its 36 degrees (celsius) or hotter. This is common throughout the Outback. Luckily, it was only 34 degrees. The entire Rim Walk is a 6 km trip and took about 3 hours. After an insanely steep but short climb, we reached the top of the canyon. While the bottom is relatively cool and lush, the top is barren and desolate. You really remember that you’re in the desert while you’re up there. All along the walk, there are scenic views and signs warning about the dangers of walking along unrailed cliffs. My favorite part of the hike was that most of the trail was unmarked, with only arrows showing the general direction. Along the way, we saw many lizards and even a meter long goanna. The hike led us along the top of the canyon and then into a sacred watering hole called the Garden of Eden, and then back up to the other side of the canyon. It was a long and exhausting trip that left my legs weak and trembling afterward, but it was completely worth it; King’s Canyon is a geological wonder and was one of my favorite parts of the trip. Afterward, we went to the campground and I was extremely tired and grumpy. The only thing noteworthy that happened that evening was that we saw a dingo running around the campsite. They’re pretty cool; basically just feral dogs.
Self-care is letting your feet dangle over a cliff 
Sarah is very excited about the sight before her
