The Donkey Pool trailhead is a 9km 4WD drive from the Charnley River Wilderness Camp. There are actually three separate but very pretty pools in a watercourse that is a rushing torrent in the wet season. The furthest pool is a 630metre one-way hike. To get to all three pools requires quite a bit of rock scrambling.
Moderate trail that may have short steep hills, rough surface, many steps or some rock hopping. Directional signage. Some bushwalking experience and moderate fitness required.
The Donkey Pool trailhead is a 9km 4WD drive from the Charnley River Wilderness Camp. There are actually three separate but very pretty pools in a watercourse that is a rushing torrent in the wet season. The first couple of pools are small, but come with beautiful water lily’s. There is a lot of birdlife to observe if you stay still enough. Reptiles are also prevalent including water goannas and the occasional snake.Â
The furthest pool is a 630metre one-way hike. To get to all three pools requires quite a bit of rock scrambling. The last pool is considered the best, as it is big enough for a cooling swim. Like a lizard, you can lay in the early morning sun on the water-smoothed rocky banks. It is a stunningly beautiful spot and worth lingering for a couple hours and enjoy lunch. The trail is very clearly marked.Â
Moderate trail that may have short steep hills, rough surface, many steps or some rock hopping. Directional signage. Some bushwalking experience and moderate fitness required.
Additional information
Rock hopping
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).
Trails are free and offer countless benefits to our community, from fostering fun and fitness to encouraging social connection, exploration, and personal challenges. These exceptional trail experiences are made possible through the support and collaboration of these great organisations and initiatives:
First of 3 pools
There are 3 pools to explore
Credit:
Pelusey Photography
1 / 5
Trailhead and markers
Easy to follow markers
Credit:
Pelusey Photography
2 / 5
Winter flowers
Splash of colour
Credit:
Pelusey Photography
3 / 5
The second pool and direction signs
The second pool and direction signs
Credit:
Pelusey Photography
4 / 5
The final pool is the one to swim in
Our own private waterhole
Credit:
Pelusey Photography
5 / 5
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Multiple day
20km
