Nitmiluk National Park is where the beauty of nature and the thrill of adventure combine to create an amazing experience. Situated in the Northern Territory, this magnificent park boasts breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, and a rich First Nation cultural heritage. It’s also home to the Jawoyn people, who continue to live and work in the area, sharing their culture with visitors and the wider community.
Looking for some of the best hiking adventures in Nitmiluk National Park? We’ve highlighted some of the best, including how to explore the famous Nitmiluk Gorge.
How to Get There
Before we dive into all the exciting things to do and see in Nitmiluk National Park, let’s talk about how to get there.
Located in the Katherine region, about 320 km south of Darwin, Nitmiluk National Park has two main sections: Nitmiluk Gorge to the south and Leliyn (Edith Falls) to the north.
A 90km drive separates the two sections, but both offer stunning scenery and a range of activities such as walks, canoe hire, boat tours, and camping.
Don’t forget: A park pass is required for visitors to the Northern Territory.
Exploring the Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge
Now that you’ve made it to Nitmiluk National Park, it’s time to start exploring!
The park’s main attraction is undoubtedly the Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge, a series of 13 stunning gorges carved out of the sandstone by the Katherine River over millions of years.
There are many ways to experience the gorge, from leisurely cruises to challenging hikes.
Katherine Gorge Cruise
A boat tour is one of the best ways to experience the gorge. The Nitmiluk Tours boat cruise takes you through the first two gorges, with informative commentary about the Jawoyn people who have lived there for tens of thousands of years. Along the way, you’ll see breathtaking waterfalls, towering cliffs, and abundant wildlife, including freshwater crocodiles, wallabies, and birdlife.
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Top Hikes and Trails in Nitmiluk National Park
There are plenty of hiking trails for those who want to explore the gorge on foot. Ensure you are prepared and have the right gear before starting the Southern Walks. Don’t forget to refer to maps and signage when trekking in order to stay on the proper path. It’s also a good idea to let someone you can trust know about your plans. Let them know where you’re going and when you anticipate returning. Your number one priority is safety.
Here are some of the park’s top hiking trails:
Baruwei Lookout
The Baruwei Lookout is a relatively easy trail that takes you through the park’s diverse landscapes, from rocky escarpments to lush tropical forests. The track is around 1.8km long and takes about an hour to complete. Along the way, you’ll encounter stunning views of the picnic area, Nitmiluk Gorge and 17 Mile Valley.
Jatbula Trail
The Jatbula Trail is a 62km trek that takes you through some of Nitmiluk National Park’s most stunning landscapes, including waterfalls, rock pools, and ancient rock art sites. The trail takes 5-6 days and requires some fitness and endurance. The trail ends at Leliyn (Edith Falls), where you can cool off in the refreshing waters of the waterfall.
Windolf Loop Walk
The Windolf Loop Walk is a moderate 9.1km trail that offers some of the best views of the lower gorge from Pat’s Lookout. The route takes you along the top of the escarpment, providing sweeping panoramic views of the gorge and the surrounding landscapes. The trail can take 3-4 hours, but the breathtaking views are worth the effort.
Waleka Walk
The Waleka Walk is a 14km one-way walk that takes you to spectacular views of the second gorge from Jeddas Rock and the upper gorge area. Traverses the sandstone escarpment through rock platforms and gullies. This trail can take 2-3 days to complete.
Butterfly Gorge
The Butterfly Gorge via Yambi Walk and Gurumal Trail is a 12km round trip taking about 4.5 hours. It offers a shaded gorge with butterflies and rainforest leading into Nitmiluk Gorge. The grade is 3 (moderate), and seasonal swimming is available. Bring enough water and note the water tank at the Butterfly Gorge trail junction. This walk is a must-do in Nitmiluk National Park for its stunning scenery.
Hiking Tips in Nitmiluk National Park
Here are some essential tips to elevate your hiking experience:
- Always carry plenty of water and sunscreen, as the Northern Territory can get hot.
- Wear comfortable and sturdy footwear suitable for hiking.
- Respect the First Nation culture and heritage of the Jawoyn people by following park rules and staying on designated trails.
- If you plan a multi-day hike, plan and bring all necessary supplies, including food, first aid kits, and camping gear.
- Check weather and trail conditions before heading out on a hike.
Nitmiluk National Park is a must-visit destination for adventure, stunning landscapes, and a deep connection to the First Nation’s culture and heritage. Whether you want to paddle through the gorge or hike through the bush, there’s something for everyone in Nitmiluk. So pack your bags and prepare for an adventure in the NT’s most beautiful national park!
Have you explored Nitmiluk National Park? We’d love to hear from you! Your feedback helps us enhance the visitor experience, so please take a moment to comment below and share your tips and recommendations.
Norther would like to invite you to explore more about the beauty of Nitmiluk National Park here. And… as always, you can get more inspiration for other National Parks & Destinations to visit by following @northerhq or get your Nitmiluk National Park daily fix @nitmiluknationalpark
*Cover image is by @oliver.risi on IG.
