Gorge Trail, Bandiln̲gan (Windjana Gorge) National Park Gorge Trail, Bandiln̲gan (Windjana Gorge) National Park
Trails WA supports the seven principles recommended by Leave No Trace Australia for minimising your impacts when using the trails.
Learn moreAbout Gorge Trail, Bandiln̲gan (Windjana Gorge) National Park
350 million years ago, Bandiln͟gan (Windjana Gorge) was a reef system with a shallow sea covering it. Today, you can see fossils from the reef as you hike along the Gorge Trail. The gorges unique rock formation is a result of the Lennard River gouging its way through the Napier Range.
Although the Gorge Trail is a short walk, you may wish to stay a little longer to soak up the beauty.
Commencing from the trailhead at the carpark, you walk towards the grey and orange rock face where you can see the river winding through the gorge. Accessible by a small gap-like tunnel you will emerge on the other side to the magnificent gorge where you can take time to view the wildlife. Freshwater crocodiles bask on the beach as others float in the water and flocks of corellas groom each other in the trees and on cliff walls.
Please note that the Time Walk and the Gorge Trail have merged and changed in difficulty due to an extensive flooding event in January 2023.
National Parks
Other Links
-
Australia’s North West
Comprehensive information on the North West region including destinations, things to see and do, accommodation and tours.
Be trail ready for Gorge Trail, Bandiln̲gan (Windjana Gorge) National Park
Here is everything you need to know before visiting this trail.
Time / Duration
1 hour
Length
1.9km return
What To Pack
Group B - Hiking & Long Distance Trails (Bushwalks and/or longer trails) required.
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)
Trail Start
Bandiln͟gan (Windjana Gorge) day-use visitor carpark, Bandiln͟gan (Windjana Gorge) National Park, 146km (2 hours) from Derby and 357km (4.5 hours) from Broome.
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.
Hazards & Warnings
Swimming not permitted due to freshwater crocodiles.
Fishing is not permitted in the area.
Heat risk: extreme heat can be experienced when walking in Bandiln͟gan (Windjana Gorge) National Park. Temperatures can exceed 40°C. Walk in the cooler parts of the day – early morning or late afternoon. Avoid dehydration – regularly sip water. 1 litre per person, per hour. There is no suitable drinking water on the trail. Wear a hat, long-sleeved, loose clothing and apply sunscreen. Rocks and steps can be slippery when wet.
Wear sturdy, closed-in footwear and watch your step.
Limited communication coverage. Satellite phone or personal locator beacon (PLB) recommended.
Facilities
Showers and flushing toilets are available nearby at the Bandiln͟gan (Windjana Gorge) Campground. The water access point at the campground is not intended for consumption. Drinking water is not provided at the campground or on the trail.
- Camping
- Water Access Points
- Car Park
- Coach Parking
- Picnic Area
- Public Toilet
- Shaded Area
Best time of year
June to August
Fees
Fees apply to Bandiln͟gan (Windjana Gorge) National Park
Trail Access
Air, road or bus to Derby. Road to National Park
Prohibited Items
No pets
Complete Gorge Trail, Bandiln̲gan (Windjana Gorge) National Park to earn badges and points!
Earn points and badges and become a "TrailsWA Expert" by completing trails and leaving reviews.
Earn 3 points towards
your TrailsWA level
Earn the Gorges badge when you complete this trail.
This trail is part of the Aboriginal Culture badge.
Be the first to review Gorge Trail, Bandiln̲gan (Windjana Gorge) National Park
We love to hear from people who've been on our Western Australian trails, so it would be most appreciated it if you wanted to leave a review.
Add your review of Gorge Trail, Bandiln̲gan (Windjana Gorge) National Park
Like this trail? Explore others nearby
More around North West
Less than 1 hour
0.4km
Lily Pools, Charnley Station, Gibb River Rd, Kimberley
-
Less than 1 hour
-
0.3km
Closed to the public until further notice.
Supported by great organisations
Trails are free and bring so many benefits to our community by providing opportunities to have fun, get fit, socialise, explore and challenge yourself. But they also have to be managed and maintained which only is made possible through terrific sponsors, donations and/or volunteering.
-(1680-×-200-px).jpeg){kind=logo}
Bandiln͟gan (Windjana Gorge)
Bandiln͟gan (Windjana Gorge)
Black-flanked Rock Wallaby
Bandiln͟gan (Windjana Gorge)
Bowerbird nest
Bandiln͟gan (Windjana Gorge)
Bandiln͟gan (Windjana Gorge)
Little Pied Cormorant
Bandiln͟gan (Windjana Gorge)
Bandiln͟gan (Windjana Gorge)
View 10 Photos of Gorge Trail, Bandiln̲gan (Windjana Gorge) National Park
Upload your photo of Gorge Trail, Bandiln̲gan (Windjana Gorge) National Park
Report a Problem
You are reporting a problem for Gorge Trail, Bandiln̲gan (Windjana Gorge) National Park. Please be as detailed as possible to help us appropriately identify and address the issue.
