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The Loop Trail, Kalbarri NP The Loop Trail, Kalbarri NP

Bush Walk  in Coral Coast

  • Half day
  • 9 km
    • 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.

The 9 km Loop Walk in Kalbarri National Park takes you past the iconic Natures Window and follows a loop along the Murchison River. This trail is best hiked in the cooler months between May and October as temperatures in the gorge can reach 50C in summer.

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The Loop Trail highlights the erosive power of the Murchison River which has carved magnificent gorges to reveal the red and white banded rock. 

This difficult, 9 kilometre trail follows the edge of the cliff, with magnificent views of the river below, before working its way down to the river bank. The trail continues along the river with sandy beaches, river gums and the possibility of swimming. 

After following a loop in the river the trail eventually climbs out of the gorge, back up to Nature’s Window and on to the carpark.

Temperatures along this walk can reach 50C in summer. It is recommended that you plan your hike for the cooler months (May to October) and avoid this hike in hot weather. The Loop Trail is closed after 7am from November to March inclusive. 

Be Prepared:

  • Carry and drink 1 litre of water per person per hour and more in hotter weather. There is no drinking water in the park.
  • Wear a hat, loose clothing, sturdy footwear and sunscreen.
  • Hike with a companion and tell someone where you are going.
  • Carry a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) or satelite phone, it could save your life. Mobile phone coverage is limited.

Geraldton Parks and Wildlife Office

(08) 9964 0901

Kalbarri Visitor Centre

(08) 9937 1104

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Be trail ready for The Loop Trail, Kalbarri NP

Here is everything you need to know before visiting this trail.

Time / Duration

3 - 5 hours

Length

9km loop

What To Pack

Group B - Hiking & Long Distance Trails (Bushwalks and/or longer trails) required.

Trail Start

Natures Window car park, Kalbarri National Park, 590km (7.5 hours) north of Perth

Get directions

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.

Difficulty Notes

Some steep sections and uneven surfaces.

Hazards & Warnings

Summer months (December to April) can be extremely hot. Keep to the trails and stay off cliff edges which are unstable. Sometimes the trail follows rock platforms and this can be a scramble at times.

Safety

For your safety it is recommended that you read the safety information provided by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.

Facilities

  • Lookouts
  • Picnic Area
  • Car Park
  • Coach Parking
  • All accessible parking
  • Public Toilet

Best time of year

May to October

Fees

Entry fees apply to Kalbarri National Park

Trail Access

Road 2WD

Prohibited Items

No pets or fires permitted. Gas appliances allowed.
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9 trail goers have rated The Loop Trail, Kalbarri NP as 4.67 out of 5!

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.

John Thornton

Reviewed 16 May 2023, 2:18pm

I loved this walk for its mix of spectacular rock formations within the gorge walls, and the waters edge component around the halfway mark. On the day I was there the river level was a little higher than perhaps it usually is, and that necessitated a short crawl along a narrow ledge beside the river, with limited overhead clearance. Quite doable if you’re reasonably flexible. It may be worth considering waterproofing your valuables. Loved it!
Mark Law-Davis

Reviewed 27 Jan 2023, 11:48am

Great walk, really need to take water with you as it gets hot especially navigating all the ups and downs, though fantastic views and lots of opportunities for a quick swim.
Chelle Fisher

Reviewed 7 Sep 2022, 10:49am

My favourite walk in the park, the loop walk really is a gem of a trail but do not underestimate how warm it can get down in the gorge and be prepared.
Kim Fawcett

Reviewed 6 May 2022, 12:36pm

Great walk and fantastic scenery. A few steep climbs and descents, only a couple of really tricky spots and some walking through deep sand. They are not kidding when they recommend you take 3-4 litres of water!
Tim Crofts

Reviewed 1 Aug 2020, 9:01pm

One of my top 5 trails in WA. Amazing scenery. Start it at dawn at Natures Window and take lots of water and some snacks. Definitely avoid it if it's going to be over 30 degrees as it gets a lot hotter in the gorge. Requires reasonable fitness and wear good hiking boots preferably.
Kelly Kane

Reviewed 17 Jun 2020, 9:08pm

Thoroughly enjoyed this walk, every corner you turn there is another breath taking view. I went in June so heat wasn't so much of an issue but still warm. The colours in the rock formations are amazing. Took me 2.15 but I walk fast and didn't stop much. Take more water than you think you need as you need it. I started my walk at 8.30am but wish I had of arrived earlier as it still gets hot down there even in winter. Enjoy.
Hanoz Kapadia

Reviewed 27 Jun 2017, 10:41am

Don't end your visit to Kalbarri before visiting this national park. And if you're a bush walking enthusiast, don't complete your visit to this NP without walking this trail. It's absolutely beautiful! I'd do it again if I were to visit Kalbarri again.
Claire Hearn

Reviewed 22 Apr 2015, 8:37am

I loved kalbarri. I didn't find the walk too difficult. Can't wait to go back and do longer walks. Read about it on https://journeysclaire.wordpress.com/2014/06/29/fifty-shades-of-contrast-i-dont-like-kalbarri-i-love-it/
pete mc dermott

Reviewed 16 Sep 2014, 7:56pm

excellent walk along the river base, take water/drink for a picnic along the way, cover up from the sun, have fun and enjoy a really interesting walk..

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