Z Bend River Trail, Kalbarri NP Z Bend River Trail, Kalbarri NP
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Learn moreAbout Z Bend River Trail, Kalbarri NP
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.
Kalbarri Visitor Centre
(08) 9937 1104
- [email protected]
- Visit website
- 70 Grey Street, Kalbarri WA 6536
National Parks
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Australia’s Coral Coast
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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
Trail Start
Z Bend Lookout Carpark, Z Bend Road, Kalbarri National Park, 585km North of Perth (6 hours)
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
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)
Additional Useful Items
+ extra water. No drinking water available in park
+ Bathers for a swim, season permitting
Hazards & Warnings
December to April can be very hot, walk in the cooler parts of the day, carry adequate water supplyFacilities
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
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