Echidna Chasm, Purnululu NP (Top trail)
Part of Purnululu National Park network
Part of Purnululu National Park network
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Learn moreAbout Echidna Chasm, Purnululu NP
Echidna Chasm is one of the many highlights found within the World Heritage Site of the Bungle Bungle Range in Purnululu National Park. Tall Livistona palms provide a spectacular setting near the gorge entrance. As you venture deeper into the range, you will find the gorge walls rise up to 200 metres with sections as narrow as one metre.
Within the main chamber of the gorge, is a photographer's delight with the ever-changing light reflecting off the chasm walls. During the middle of the day, sunlight penetrates into the gorge creating incredible golden hues. Needless to say, depending on the time of year, 11am-1pm is the best time for photographers.
The trail is short but has rocky sections that require some climbing. As you pass the main chamber of the gorge, the trail changes to a Class 5 as there are boulders to scramble over requiring 3 points of contact.
Please note: Purnululu National Park is open seasonally between April/May to December, weather permitting and is only accessible by high clearance 4WD only. Due to the remote nature of the park, make sure to read through the visitor safety of the park before visiting.Â
National Parks
Other Links
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Explore Parks WA - Echidna Chasm
Explore Parks website
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Be trail ready
Here is everything you need to know before visiting this trail.
Time / Duration
Allow 1 hour
Length
2km return
Fees
Park entry fees apply and can be paid online with your camping fees unless you hold a valid WA National Parks Pass. A Parks Pass can also be purchased during opening hours from the Visitor Centre or at all hours from the ticket machine.
Trail Access
Purnululu National Park is 304km south of Kununurra. The last 53km of is on Spring Creek Track which is accessible via high clearance 4WD only. The park is also accessible via air.
Trail Start
Echidna Chasm carpark, 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.
Additional information
Once past the main chamber, the trail classification changes to a Class 5 grading due to the scrambling required to get over the boulders.Â
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)
Hazards & Warnings
Be prepared for hot weather conditions as temperatures can reach over 40°C and radiant heat can increase to over 50°C. At least 1 litre of water per person, per hour.
Prohibited items
No pets
No drones
Safety
Be prepared for a remote experience. Consider travelling with a personal location beacon (PLB) or satellite phone. There is NO PHONE service driving into the park.
See Group D items on Trail Tips page. Roads may be closed after heavy rain, check conditions before travelling.
Facilities
- Car Park
- Coach Parking
- Public Toilet
- Picnic Area
Weather
Today Apr 23, 4:30am
29°C
Feels like 32°C
Max 29°C
Min 29°C
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