-crop-340x230.jpg)
Whip Snake Gorge Trail, Purnululu NP Whip Snake Gorge Trail, Purnululu NP
Part of
Purnululu National Park
network
Trails WA supports the seven principles recommended by Leave No Trace Australia for minimising your impacts when using the trails.
Learn moreAbout Whip Snake Gorge Trail, Purnululu NP
Whip Snake Gorge is one of the longer trails within Purnululu National Park at 10km return. This difficult walk follows the sandy and uneven Piccaninny Creek bed. 400m past The Window turnoff you will see the Whip Snake Gorge turnoff. After veering left the trail takes you deep into the gorge before arriving at the shaded ampitheatre which supports vegetation such as rock figs, gums, ferns and mosses.
The creek bed along this walk is exposed to the sun so is best done early to avoid full sun exposure over Piccaninny Creek.
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.
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.
Downloads
Be trail ready
Here is everything you need to know before visiting this trail.
Time / Duration
Allow 4 hours
Length
10km
Trail Start
Piccaninny Creek 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.
Visit Trail Tips for further 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)
Hazards & Warnings
Be prepared for hot weather conditions as temperatures can reach over 40°C and radiant heat can increase to over 50°C.
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
- Picnic Area
- Public Toilet
Best time of year
May to August. The dry season in the Kimberley
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.
Prohibited Items
No pets
No drones
Complete Whip Snake Gorge Trail, Purnululu NP 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.
Be the first to review Whip Snake Gorge Trail, Purnululu NP
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 Whip Snake Gorge Trail, Purnululu NP
Like this trail? Explore others nearby
More around North West
Gerliwany-gerring Banan Trail, Kununurra, Mirima NP
-
Less than 1 hour
-
2.2km
Many roads are 4WD high clearance ONLY, check before you go.
_TourismWA-crop-340x230.png)
Closed to the public until further notice.
Supporters & Partners
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:
Whip Snake Gorge, Purnululu National Park
Whip Snake Gorge, Purnululu National Park
Whip Snake Gorge, Purnululu National Park
View 3 Photos of Whip Snake Gorge Trail, Purnululu NP
Upload your photo of Whip Snake Gorge Trail, Purnululu NP
Report a Problem
You are reporting a problem for Whip Snake Gorge Trail, Purnululu NP. Please be as detailed as possible to help us appropriately identify and address the issue.
