Yardie Gorge Trail, Cape Range National Park Yardie Gorge Trail, Cape Range National Park
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Learn moreAbout Yardie Gorge Trail, Cape Range National Park
The Yardie Gorge Trail begins where the Yardie Nature Walk ends, turning an easy stroll into a more challenging Class 4 hike. Located within Cape Range National Park, about one hours drive (2WD) south from Exmouth, this 2km return trail starts at creek level and steadily climbs up the rugged red cliffs of Yardie Creek Gorge.
The path becomes increasingly steep and uneven as you ascend, requiring good mobility and sturdy footwear. However, the reward is well worth the effort—panoramic views into the gorge below and out to the turquoise waters of the Ningaloo Reef.
This trail showcases the gorge’s striking geology and offers a chance to spot local wildlife, including euros, red kangaroos, and the rare black-footed rock wallaby. Allow around 2 hours for the full return hike, taking time to soak in the scenery and rest at the top.
Yardie Gorge’s permanent saltwater pools and surrounding mangrove habitats support diverse marine and bird life. This dramatic and ecologically rich location is a must-see for nature lovers and hikers seeking a memorable outback experience by the sea.
Visitor Information Centres
National Parks
Other Links
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Cape Range National Park
Get your Visitor Guide & Map on the 'Maps and Brochures' Tab
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Yardie Creek Information
Further information on Yardie Creek - Explore Parks WA
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Yardie Creek Campground
Information on Yardie Creek Campground - Explore Parks WA
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Be trail ready for Yardie Gorge Trail, Cape Range National Park
Here is everything you need to know before visiting this trail.
Time / Duration
Allow 2 hours
Length
2km return
Trail Start
Yardie Creek car park, Cape Range NP, 90km (1 hour) drive from Exmouth on a sealed road, which is 1300km (16.5 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.
Additional information
The gorge trail is accessed via the Yardie Nature Trail which is an easy Class 1 trail for the first 600 metres.
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
Extreme heat can be experienced when walking in Cape Range.
Temperatures can regularly exceed 40°C during the months of
November to March.
• Walk in cooler months or during cooler times of the day.
• Avoid dehydration. Regularly sip water - one litre
per person, per hour. There is no drinking water
on the trail.
• To minimise heat stress, sunburn and injury from
rugged terrain, wear sturdy footwear, a hat,
long-sleeved, loose clothing and apply sunscreen.
• For your safety, do not walk alone. Follow the white markers
and remain on the trail at all times.
• Carry a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) or satellite phone;
it could save your life. Mobile phone coverage is extremely limited.
Safety
Cliff risk area
Cliffs occur along this trail. For your safety:
- Stay well clear of the edges
- Supervise children
- Do not throw rocks or any other objects over the cliff
Biodiversity
The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions undertakes 1080 baiting at this location to reduce the impacts of feral cats and foxes on native wildlife.
Meat baits containing 1080 poison are laid in or around this area on an ongoing basis. 1080 is poisonous to humans and will kill domestic cats and dogs. Please leave your pets at home or prevent them from entering this area.
For further information contact your local Parks and Wildlife Service office or visit Western Shield.
Facilities
At the main car park there are toilets and a short walk from the carpark you'll find a picnic area under some shady tamarix trees. Yardie Creek Campground is nearby. For camping, bookings need to be made online before your visit at Parkstay WA These campsites are extemely popular and you can book up to 180 days in advance.
- Camping
- Car Park
- Coach Parking
- Lookouts
- Picnic Area
- Public Toilet
- Shaded Area
- All accessible toilet facilities
- All accessible parking
Best time of year
Cooler months, April to September
Fees
Park entry fees apply for Cape Range National Park
Trail Access
Road (2WD) about 1 hour from Exmouth. Exmouth is just over 1200km north of Perth.
Prohibited Items
No pets, campfires or firearms.
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Supporters & Partners
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Yardie Gorge, Cape Range NP
Yardie Gorge, Cape Range NP
Signage at the start of the trail
Black-flanked Rock Wallaby
Aerial of Yardie Creek, Cape Range NP
View of the Gorge
View
View
Flying Fox Bats nesting in the trees over Yardie Creek
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