Yardie Gorge Trail, Cape Range NP Yardie Gorge Trail, Cape Range NP
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Learn moreAbout Yardie Gorge Trail, Cape Range NP
The Yardie Gorge Trail is located in the spectacular Yardie Creek gorge, one hour's drive from Exmouth, Western Australia. Starting at river level the trail slowly climbs up the red rock cliffs of the gorge, becoming more difficult as you ascend the range; however, the views into the gorge are well worth the effort.
Follow the 0.6 km Yardie Nature Walk and continue on for another 0.4 km along the Yardie Creek Gorge Trail. (2km return) The trail is initially an easy walk, but becomes more difficult as you ascend the range.
Centuries of erosion have formed a spectacular multi-coloured gorge. Hidden within the safety of the gorge walls is a colony of black-footed rock wallabies. These timid creatures seek shelter on ledges along the gorge walls resting during daylight hours, coming out to feed in the cool of the night.
Yardie is the only gorge in the area with permanent water however this is saltwater fed from the ocean. This interesting ecosystem has mangrove areas that provide roosting sites for many bird species while the sheltered waters are a sanctuary for many marine animals. The beginnings of the gorge are deep in the limestone range.
Milyering, the National Park Visitor Centre features interpretive displays, audio-visual facilities and a library containing a wealth of information on the National and Marine Parks to help visitors appreciate the natural environment. National Park rangers are on site to assist with enquiries.
Please contact the Ningaloo Visitor Centre for more information about boat tours that operate daily within the gorge.
Visitor Information Centres
National Parks
Other Links
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Cape Range National Park
Get your Visitor Guide & Map on the 'Maps and Brochures' Tab
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Yardie Creek
Explore Parks Webpage
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Australia’s Coral Coast
Comprehensive information on the Coral Coast region including destinations, things to see and do, accommodation and tours.
Be trail ready for Yardie Gorge Trail, Cape Range NP
Here is everything you need to know before visiting this trail.
Time / Duration
Allow 2 hours
Length
2km return
Trail Start
Yardie Creek car park, Cape Range National Park, 90km (1 hour) drive from Exmouth on a sealed road, which is 1300km (16.5 hours) north of Perth
Trail End
Bush Walk
Class 4
Difficult trail with rough surface that may have very steep hills or extensive rock hopping. Directional signage may be limited. Bushwalking experience, navigation and emergency first aid skills, and good fitness required.
Visit Trail Tips for further information.
Additional information
What To Pack
What To Pack
Group B - Hiking & Long Distance Trails (Bushwalks and/or longer trails)
- Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Insect repellent
- Plenty of drinking water (as a minimum carry and drink 1 litre of water per hour of walking, per person).
- PLB or satellite phone
- Clothing to suit the activity, environment and weather conditions.
- Map/ Compass, do not rely on your phone in remote locations.
- Snacks/ Meals to keep your energy levels up on longer walks
- Extra food and water in case of unexpected delays
- Rubbish bag to remove all your rubbish
- Reference material such as wildflower wildlife guides.
- Whistle (for emergencies, six short blasts per minute)
- Small trowel for toilet emergencies, and a few sheets of toilet paper in a small waterproof bag.
- Personal first aid kit (check that items are clean, properly sealed, have not exceeded expiry dates and that used items have been replaced).
- Torch/ Headlamp
- Binoculars and camera (optional)
Additional Useful Items
Carry adequate water 3 litres/per person wear sunscreen, long sleeves ad a hat. There is no water and very little shade.
Hazards & Warnings
Trail is subject to intermittent salt water flooding. Please phone ahead to check conditions. Trail surface is gravel and rock with cliff edges so caution is advised.Biodiversity
The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions undertakes 1080 baiting at this location to reduce the impacts of feral cats and foxes on native wildlife.
Meat baits containing 1080 poison are laid in or around this area on an ongoing basis. 1080 is poisonous to humans and will kill domestic cats and dogs. Please leave your pets at home or prevent them from entering this area.
For further information contact your local Parks and Wildlife Service office or visit Western Shield.
Facilities
At the main car park there are toilets and a short walk from the carpark you'll find a picnic area under some shady Tamarisk trees. Cape Range National Park's Yardie Campsite is nearby. For camping, booking needs to be made online prior to your visit. These campsites are extemely popular and you can book up to 180 days in advance.
- Camping
- Lookouts
- Picnic Area
- Public Toilet
- Car Park
- Shaded Area
- Coach Parking
- All accessible toilet facilities
Best time of year
April to September
Fees
Entry fee to Cape Range National Park - http://parks.dpaw.wa.gov.au/know/park-entry-fees
Trail Access
Road from Exmouth
Prohibited Items
No pets, campfires or firearms.
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This trail is part of the Aboriginal Culture badge.
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