Cathedral Gorge, Purnululu NP Cathedral Gorge, Purnululu NP
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From Piccaninny carpark, the walk winds its way through the iconic beehives, heading down between two walls of rock before opening up into Cathedral Gorge. Water pounding through here in the wet season has created a huge amphitheatre of red rock with a pool of water in the middle (be sure to bring a wide-angle lens for your camera). The acoustics are so good that music has been played within the gorge. On the return journey to the carpark be sure to take the alternative route through the beehives.
While in the area take a couple of days and a backpack to explore nearby Piccaninny Creek and Gorge, camping overnight. If you do this, make sure you are well prepared. The deeper you go, the more spectacular it gets, but for your safety, you must register at the visitor centre before setting out. On the northern side is Echidna Chasm, a narrow gorge different from those on the southern side.
The park is open only between April and December (weather permitting). Check with the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions Kununurra office on 08 9168 4200 for the current weather forecast and road conditions before entering the park.
Access to the park by road is via Spring Creek Track, from the Great Northern Highway approximately 250 km south of Kununurra, to the track's end at the Purnululu National Park Visitor Centre. The track is 53 km long and is usable only in the dry season (April 1 to December 31), and only by four-wheel-drive (4WD) high clearance vehicles and off-road trailers. Safely navigating it takes approximately three hours. From the Purnululu National Park Visitor Centre, the trail is then located a further 27 kilometres drive south.
Access by air is less demanding; scenic flights over the massif by helicopter or fixed-wing aircraft are available within the park or from Halls Creek, Kununurra or Warmun. This is the best way to gain a perspective of the Bungle Bungle's massive size and spectacular scenery.
National Parks
Other Links
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Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions
Explore Parks WA website
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Take a tour with Kingfisher Tours
Kingfisher Tours offers immersive Kimberley adventures by air, 4WD, and on foot, guided by local Aboriginal Custodians. Experience the stunning landscapes, rich history, and unique bush tucker while enjoying our sustainable, family-run tours.
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Be trail ready for Cathedral Gorge, Purnululu NP
Here is everything you need to know before visiting this trail.
Time / Duration
1.5 - 2 hours
Length
2km return
Trail Start
Piccaninny Creek car park, Purnululu National Park, 230km (3 hours) south of Kununurra, which is 3200km (30 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
Take a minimum of 4 litres of water per person.
See Group D items on Trail Tips page.
Roads may be closed after heavy rain, check conditions before travelling.
Hazards & Warnings
Temperatures can get very hot (up to 50 degrees), walk in the early morning or late afternoonFacilities
- Picnic Area
- Public Toilet
Best time of year
April to mid October
Fees
Entry fee to Purnululu National Park
Trail Access
Air or road to Kununurra. 4WD track into National Park.
Prohibited Items
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