Alice Springs Telegraph Station Historical Reserve

The township of Alice Springs obtained its name from the waterhole at this historic Telegraph Station. This historical reserve marks the original site of the first European settlement in Alice Springs. Established in 1872 to relay messages between Darwin and Adelaide, the Alice Springs Telegraph Station is the best preserved of the 12 stations along the Overland Telegraph Line.

The Telegraph Station features the original buildings of stone which have been restored with house furnishings and artefacts from the early 1900s. Set against the magnificent MacDonnell Ranges, the reserve also offers opportunities for walking, picnicking and wildlife observation. Located four kilometres north of the new Alice Springs, the reserve is easily accessed by conventional two-wheel drive vehicle. Alternatively, there is a walking or cycling track into the reserve from the highway and the Todd River.

Entry to the Historical Reserve is free but an entry fee applies to the Historic Precinct which includes a guided tour.