Top Trail:  Loop Walk, Kalbarri NP

Overview

The challenging Loop Walk in Kalbarri National Park highlights the erosive power of the Murchison River which has carved magnificent gorges to reveal the red and white banded rock. Highlights include the iconic ‘Nature’s Window’, a natural rock formation which frames the Murchison valley. 

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.

Natures Window

Natures Window

Photo Credit: Kim Fawcett

View trail map

About the Trail

This hard, 8 kilometre trail follows the edge of the cliff, with views of the river. From here the trail works its way down to the river bank. Along the river are sandy beaches, river gums and the possibility of swimming. On the other side of the river, some of the cliffs show magnificent shades of red and pink.

Before the river bends towards the Indian Ocean, the trial climbs out of the gorge back up to Nature’s Window and back to the carpark.

Need to Know

  • Time

    3 - 4 hours

  • Distance

    8.5 km loop Length is 8.5km (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. Easy 400 metre walk to Nature’s window

  • What to Pack?

    Drinking water not available in park Inside the gorge the temperature can rise, so carry plenty of water (minimum 3-4 litres 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

    June to November

  • 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