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Z Bend Lookout, Kalbarri NP Z Bend Lookout, Kalbarri NP

Bush Walk  in Coral Coast

  • Less than 1 hour
  • 1.2 km
    • Bush Walk Class 3

      Moderate trail that may have short steep hills, rough surface, many steps or some rock hopping. Directional signage. Some bushwalking experience and moderate fitness required.

Visitors can admire the spectacular views of the Murchison River Gorge, from the overhanging rock formation of the Z bend lookout, a moderately easy walk from the carpark.

Amazing views from the lookout over the Murchison River
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One of the most spectacular lookouts in Kalbarri National Park, Z Bend Lookout is suitably named after the tight bends the Murchison River has carved into the Tumblagooda Sandstone.

A short walk, including some stairs will take you from the carpark to the barricaded lookout on the edge of 150m high cliffs. Take the time to enjoy the colours of the lush river red gums contrasting against the rich red sandstone cliff formations. If visiting during wildflower season from July to October this experience is heightened by a sea of flowering natives, including Flame Grevillea, Bird Beak Hakea, Starflowers, orchids and the Pink Poker.

After enjoying the lookout, you can have lunch in the picnic area, using the barbeque and sheltered areas.

For those with a good level of fitness, the more adventurous Z Bend River Trail takes you down into the gorge up to the river's edge. This trail is physically demanding and extreme care should be used in gorge risk area.

Geraldton Parks and Wildlife Office

(08) 9964 0901

Kalbarri Visitor Centre

(08) 9937 1104

National Parks

Other Links

  • Australia’s Coral Coast

    Comprehensive information on the Coral Coast region including destinations, things to see and do, accommodation and tours.


Be trail ready for Z Bend Lookout, Kalbarri NP

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

Time / Duration

Up to 1 hour

Length

1.2km return

What To Pack

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

Trail Start

Z Bend Road, Kalbarri National Park, 585km North of Perth (6 hours)

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Trail End

Z Bend Lookout

Get directions

Bush Walk

Class 3

Moderate trail that may have short steep hills, rough surface, many steps or some rock hopping. Directional signage. Some bushwalking experience and moderate fitness required.

Visit Trail Tips for further information.

Hazards & Warnings

December to April can be very hot, walk in the cooler parts of the day, carry adequate water.

Facilities

Wheelchair access is limited to the picnic area only as there are steps to the lookout.
  • BBQ Facilities
  • Car Park
  • Lookouts
  • Picnic Area
  • Public Toilet
  • Shaded Area
  • Sheltered Area
  • View Platform

Best time of year

July to October for best viewing of wildflowers

Fees

National Park fees apply

Trail Access

6 hours car or bus drive from Perth to Kalbarri, 20 minutes from Kalbarri to Park. 2WD vehichle is adequate, however Natures Window/Z Bend Rd prohibits large vans, motorhomes, cars towing caravans and trailers

Prohibited Items

No pets or camping in the National Park
More tips for being Trail Ready
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Complete Z Bend Lookout, Kalbarri NP to earn badges and points!

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2 trail goers have rated Z Bend Lookout, Kalbarri NP as 4.5 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.

Chelle Fisher

Reviewed 11 Sep 2022, 9:30am

Another trail with outstanding views of the Murchison and gorges
Joanne Page

Reviewed 31 Dec 2018, 1:20pm

Well marked and maintained trail, view of the Z bend spectacular.

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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.

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