There is something irresistible about a gorge.
Maybe it is the way the light changes as you drop below the rim. Maybe it is the surprise of finding cool water in the middle of sun-baked country. Or maybe it is that feeling of standing inside something ancient, where every layer of rock seems to hold a story.
Western Australia does gorges beautifully. From the remote sandstone walls of Kennedy Range National Park to the polished chasms of Karijini and the river-carved drama of Kalbarri, these landscapes are made for slow mornings, sturdy shoes and a little extra planning.
Before you head off, remember that gorge country can be deceptive. Mornings can be chilly, days can warm quickly and water in the gorges can be very cold, even when the air temperature is high. Tracks may include loose rock, steep steps, ladders, cliff edges or slippery surfaces. Always check current park alerts, carry a first aid kit and more water than you think you need and let someone know your plans.
Kennedy Range National Park | Mundatharrda
Escarpment Trail, Aerial View, Kennedy Range NP. Credit: Tourism WAKnown as Mundatharrda in the Yingarrda language, the Kennedy Range is a remote, rugged and peaceful place with profound cultural and spiritual significance. The range rises dramatically from the surrounding plains, with weathered cliffs, seasonal waterfalls and quiet gorge trails that feel a world away from everyday life.
Escarpment Base Trail
5.8km | Class 3 | Bush Walk
Experience the grandeur of Mundatharrda)on this scenic walk that follows the foot of towering sandstone cliffs and weathered rock formations. Wander through a landscape of giant fallen boulders, twisted sandalwood trees and expansive outback vistas.
Escarpment Trail
3.4km | Class 4 | Bush Walk
For one of the most spectacular viewpoints at Mundatharrda, follow the Escarpment Trail through a steep, narrow gorge and onto the top of the range. The climb is rewarded with breathtaking views over the surrounding plains, offering a true sense of the scale, beauty and isolation of this remarkable outback landscape.
Honeycomb Gorge Trail
0.6km | Class 3 | Bush Walk
A short walk leads to one of the park’s most remarkable natural wonders. Follow the trail through a narrow gorge to discover the striking honeycomb-patterned rock formations that give Honeycomb Gorge its name. This is a sacred site to the Yinggarda people who request that no photos be taken of this special place during your visit.
This is remote outback country, so come prepared and BYO everything. Roads in the park are unsealed and conditions can change after rain. The reward? Big skies, red rock, quiet trails and some of the best stargazing in WA.
Kennedy Range Trail Tips
- Fuel up and stock up at Gascoyne Junction – a 118kms drive from Kennedy Range NP, and the closest place to get fuel, food, water and first aid supplies.
- Check road conditions before you go (especially after rain) – Most of the roads in the park are unsealed with the Kennedy Loop Track and access to the western side of the park being 4WD access only.
- Satellite phone recommended – there is no mobile phone reception within the park.
- Layer up – Outback mornings can be surprisingly chilly, then warm up quicky once the sun hits the rock.
- Keep to marks tracks and trails – Mundatharrda is a deeply significant cultural landscape to Yinggarda people. By travelling thoughtfully and leaving no trace, you help protect this special place for future generations.
Karijini National Park
Aerial of Oxer Lookout, Karijini NP. Credit: Tourism WAKarijini is gorge country on a grand scale nestled in the heart of the Pilbara within the traditional lands of the Banyjima, Innowonga and Kurrama people. Deep red cliffs, narrow chasms, hidden waterfalls and impossibly clear pools make this one of WA’s most iconic national parks. It is also a place where the “wow” moments often come with ladders, ledges, water crossings and smooth, slippery rock.
Gorge Rim Walk
2.4km | Class 3 | Bush Walk
A moderate walk that follows the rim of Dale’s Gorge from Circular Pool lookout to Fortescue Falls lookout. From there, you can take on the many stairs that descend to the base of Fortescue Falls and access to Fern Pool, offering some of the park’s most loved views.
Handrail Pool Trail
1.5km | Class 5 | Bush Walk
Often described as a journey to the centre of the earth, the Handrail Pool Trail takes adventurous walkers through the dramatic depths of Weano Gorge. Follow narrow passages, scramble over rocks and descend by handrail to reach a spectacular pool surrounded by Karijini's striking red and ochre-hued gorge walls.
Knox Lookout Trail
0.8km | Class 3 | Bush Walk
A short walk leads to one of Karijini's most spectacular viewpoints, where the dramatic depths of Knox Gorge meet Wittenoom Gorge. Visit at sunrise or sunset to see the towering red rock walls glow in the changing light.
While you’re there, a visit to the Karijini Visitor Centre is well worth it (and not just for the phone reception and hot shower). Here, the interactive exhibits and local knowledge bring the park's remarkable landscapes, wildlife and cultural heritage to life. Friendly staff can help you plan your visit, discover the best walks and attractions for your family, and gain a deeper appreciation of this extraordinary Pilbara destination.
Karijini is beautiful, but it asks for respect. The gorges can be cool and shaded while the areas above can be extremely hot. Water can be very cold, rocks can be slick and phone reception is limited to a few select locations only. Choose walks that match your ability, wear shoes with good grip and never jump into pools. Water depth can change and submerged rocks are not always visible.
Karijini Trail Tips
- Fuel up and stock up at either Tom Price or Auski Roadhouse – depending on where you’re driving from, a 108kms south-west and 75kms north-east of Karijini, these are the closest places to get fuel, food, water and first aid supplies.
- Extremely limited phone reception – expect no mobile phone reception within the gorges. However, there is phone reception in the park at the Karijini Visitors Centre, Karijini Eco Retreat, Dales Campground and at the top of Hamersley Gorge.
- Layer up – this time of year, Karijini mornings can get down to 3-5C, then warm up quicky once the sun hits the rock.
- Consider bringing reef booties, a dry bag and a wettie – many of the gorge trails include wading through sections of shallow water and chilly pools with temps at a ‘take-your-breath-away’ 10-15C. As well as keeping your toes a little warmer, booties offer better grip to keep you safe on the trails.
- Keep to marks tracks and trails – these remote and rugged gorges offer unforgettable adventures, but natural hazards such as steep cliffs, uneven terrain and changing conditions can occur—so keep to marked trails, take your time, stay aware and explore safely.
Kalbarri National Park
The Loop Trail, Kalbarri NP. Credit: @TouristTheBusLocated on Nanda Country, Kalbarri National Park is ideal for those seeking gorge adventures without having to rough it. Only a short drive from the coastal town of Kalbarri, the Murchison River has carved an 80 km gorge through red and white banded sandstone, creating some of WA’s most recognisable viewpoints, including Nature’s Window, Z Bend and the Kalbarri Skywalk.
The Loop Trail
9km | Class 4 | Bush Walk
This is the big-ticket hike for experienced walkers. Descend into the gorge and follow the winding river through towering red sandstone cliffs, rugged riverbanks and ancient landscapes before reaching the iconic Loop, where the Murchison River curves back on itself in a spectacular horseshoe bend. With breathtaking gorge views and a true sense of the park's scale and grandeur, this is one of Kalbarri's most memorable hiking experiences.
Z Bend Lookout
1.2km | Class 3 | Bush Walk
Take a short walk to one of the park’s most spectacular viewpoints, where the river carves a dramatic zigzag through towering red sandstone cliffs far below. Perched high above the gorge, Z Bend Lookout offers breathtaking panoramic views.
Kalbarri Skywalk Trail
0.4km | Class 1 | Accessible Trail
If you’re after a deeper experience, that required little effort, then this is the trail for you. Discover the Nanda peoples’ connection to the gorge and surrounding country through art installations and signage along the sealed pathway and brace yourself for the exhilarating birds-eye view from the canter-levered Skywalk lookout.
If you’ve gorged yourself on gorges, the coastal section of the park offers coastal cliff trails, sea breezes, whale spotting, ocean vistas and a completely different landscape.
Kalbarri offers a more accessible gorge experience than Karijini or Kennedy Range, with well-developed visitor facilities (including an on-site Kiosk!) and being close to town. If you’re seeking spectacular gorge landscapes with the convenience of nearby services and accommodation, then Kalbarri National Park’s trails are for you.
Kalbarri National Park Trail Tips
- Stay alert and aware – the ease of access to Kalbarri National Park, shouldn't be mistaken for the absence of hazards. Remember to carry water, keep to marked trails, and avoid hiking in hot weather.
- BYO water and snacks – During peak periods, there is a kiosk located near the Kalbarri Skywalk. However, in the event that it’s not open, be sure to bring water with you.
- Best time of day to tackle trails -Visit the inland gorge sites early, then save the coastal cliffs for later in the day when the light softens and the sea breeze picks up.
Staying safe in our Gorgeous Gorges: a few things to remember
Gorge trails are unforgettable, but they can also be unforgiving. Conditions change quickly between exposed rims, shaded chasms and water-filled sections.
- Carry plenty of water and drink regularly.
- Wear sturdy footwear with good grip.
- Stay on marked trails and well back from cliff edges.
- Check local weather, road conditions and park alerts before you go.
- Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.
There is something almost timeless about standing deep within a gorge, surrounded by ancient stone shaped over millions of years. Whether you find adventure, solitude or a sense of wonder, these trails offer an experience that stays with you long after you've returned home. So choose your adventure, tread lightly, and discover the wonder, beauty and enduring spirit of one of Western Australia's gorgeous gorges.
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