Top Trail:  Loop Walk, Kalbarri NP

Overview

The 9 km Loop Walk in Kalbarri National Park takes you past the iconic Natures Window and follows a loop in the Murchison River.
This trail is best hiked in the cooler months between May and October as temperatures in the gorge can reach 50C in summer.

Natures Window

Natures Window

Photo Credit: Kim Fawcett

View trail map

About the Trail

 The Loop Trail highlights the erosive power of the Murchison River which has carved magnificent gorges to reveal the red and white banded rock. 

This difficult, 9 kilometre trail follows the edge of the cliff, with magnificent views of the river below, before working its way down to the river bank. The trail continues along the river with sandy beaches, river gums and the possibility of swimming. 

After following a loop in the river the trail eventually climbs out of the gorge, back up to Nature’s Window and on to the carpark.

Temperatures along this walk can reach 50C in summer. It is recommended that you plan your hike for the cooler months (May to October) and avoid this hike in hot weather. The Loop Trail is closed after  7am from November to March inclusive.  Be prepared - carry and drink 3 to 4 litres per person per day,  wear a hat, loose clothing and sturdy footwear. Hike with a companion and tell someone where you are going.

Need to Know

  • Time

    3 - 5 hours

  • Distance

    9 km loop Length is 9km (Loop).

  • Trail Start (Loop)

    Natures Window car park, Kalbarri National Park, 590km (7.5 hours) north of Perth

  • Degree of Difficulty

    Difficult - High level of fitness and experience required.
    Bush Walk: Grade 4 - Bushwalking experience recommended. Tracks may be long, rough and very steep. Directional signage may be limited.

    Some steep sections and uneven surfaces.

  • What to Pack?

    Drinking water is not available along the trail. Temperatures can rise to 50C in the gorge. Carry and drink 3-4 litres of water per person.

    Group B (Bushwalks and/or longer trails) required.

    • Minimum 2 litres of water per person per day
    • Sturdy shoes
    • Sun hat or bike helmet (compulsory in WA)
    • Sunglasses, sunscreen (30+) and insect repellant
    • Binoculars and camera (optional)
    • Map or guide book where suggested
    • Snacks and/or lunch depending on length of trail
    • Clothes to suit the activity and potential weather conditions including a water/windproof jacket
    • First Aid kit

  • Best Time of the Year

    May to October

  • Facilities

    • Lookouts
    • Picnic Area

  • Fees

    Entry fees apply to Kalbarri National Park - http://parks.dbca.wa.gov.au/know/fees

  • Hazards & Warnings

    Summer months (December to April) can be extremely hot. Keep to the trails and stay off cliff edges which are unstable. Sometimes the trail follows rock platforms and this can be a scramble at times.

  • Prohibited Items

    No pets or fires permitted. Gas appliances allowed.

  • Access to the Trail

    Road 2WD

  • Trail Contact

    Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Parks and Wildlife Service
    Telephone: (08) 9921 5955
    Web: http://parks.dbca.wa.gov.au
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    Twitter: @ExploreParksWA