Australia’s outback features dramatic and surreal rock formations, and the Devil’s Marbles in the Northern Territory stand out as one of the most intriguing and photogenic natural landmarks along a major highway.
Giant Granite Boulders Scattered Across the Desert
The Devil’s Marbles consist of hundreds of huge, rounded granite boulders balancing precariously on top of one another or resting alone on the red desert floor. Some stacks reach several meters high, creating an almost impossible illusion of gravity-defying balance. The rocks vary in size and shape, with smooth, weathered surfaces that glow beautifully under the intense outback sun.
How These Boulders Formed Over Millions of Years
These formations date back hundreds of millions of years. Ancient granite was exposed, then cracked and eroded by wind, rain, and temperature changes. Spheroidal weathering rounded the edges, while softer surrounding rock wore away faster, leaving the harder cores standing as isolated boulders. Local Indigenous stories add cultural significance, viewing the site as a sacred and spiritual place.
Visiting the Devil’s Marbles
Located along the Stuart Highway between Alice Springs and Darwin, the site is easily accessible by car. The best time to visit is sunrise or sunset when the rocks turn vivid shades of orange and red against the clear sky.
The Devil’s Marbles capture the raw, mysterious beauty of Australia’s Red Centre. Search “Devil’s Marbles road trip Australia” to include this iconic stop on your outback journey!
