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Z Bend River Trail, Kalbarri NP Z Bend River Trail, Kalbarri NP

Bush Walk  in Coral Coast

  • 1-3 hours
  • 2.6 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.

For the more adventurous hikers, once admiring the views from the Z Bend Lookout, you can embark on the trek down into the gorge, meandering between boulders and river red gums to reach the Murchison River.

Enjoying the cooling waters of the Murchison River after walking the Z Bend River Trail.
Earn 3 Points Popular Trail Wildflower Wanderer
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One of the most scenic locations in the Kalbarri National Park, the Z Bend is suitably named after the tight bends the Murchison River has carved into the Tumblagooda Sandstone gorge.The Z Bend can be admired from a lookout or it can be experienced first hand by taking an hour long hike descending down into the gorge. As you climb over boulders, through passages and down ladders, keep a look out for the endemic wildflower species Kalbarri Spider Orchid  as well as many other wildflowers Pink Poker, Flame Grevillea, Starflowers and many more orchids and flowering natives.

Once in the gorge if the season permits you can have a swim and cool off in the waters of the Murchison River, or walk along the rock edge and enjoy the calm surroundings.

When returning to the carpark ensure you take the time to sit back and relax, use the bbq facilities to enjoy a picnic lunch.

As this is a gorge risk area, extreme caution should be used.

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 River Trail, Kalbarri NP

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

Time / Duration

2 hours return

Length

2.6km return to carpark

What To Pack

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

Trail Start

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

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Trail End

Z Bend Lookout

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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

Steep descent down into gorge, including ladders, tight passages and climbing over boulders

Hazards & Warnings

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

Facilities

Wheelchair access limited to picnic area, trail unsuitable for wheelchairs.
  • BBQ Facilities
  • Car Park
  • Lookouts
  • Public Toilet
  • Shaded Area
  • Sheltered Area
  • View Platform

Best time of year

July to October for best viewing of wildflower season

Fees

National Park fees apply

Trail Access

2WD vehicle 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 River Trail, Kalbarri NP to earn badges and points!

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Earn 3 Points

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Popular Trail Wildflower Wanderer

Earn the Popular Trail , and Wildflower Wanderer badges when you complete this trail.

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1 trail goers have rated Z Bend River Trail, Kalbarri NP as 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.

Louisa Larado

Reviewed 7 Jan 2023, 8:17am

Fantastic trail with stunning views at the bottom.

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