Kalbarri National Park
Kalbarri National Park in Western Australia occupies an area of a massive 1830.04 square km and is located 485 km north of Perth.
The many and varied features of Kalbarri National Park provide visitors with an array of things to see and do.
Marvel at nature’s ability to carve the landscape. Explore the depths and heights of the river gorges and sea cliffs. Admire the floral beauty of the vast, rolling sandplains. Discover the intriguing cultural history of the area.
River Gorges
The rugged terrain and relative seclusion of the Murchison Gorge attracts thousands of visitors each year. Short walks provide moderately easy access to lookouts along the river gorge at the Loop, Z-Bend, Hawks’ Head and Ross Graham Lookout.
The Loop (Nature’s Window)
Several lookouts are positioned around The Loop to provide different views of the winding gorge below. A key attraction is Nature’s Window, a natural rock arch that superbly frames the upstream view, and is a 400-metre walk from the carpark. For those eager for adventure, the 8km Loop Walk Trail beginning and ending at Nature’s Window, provides an unforgettable
gorge experience.
Z-Bend
A 500-metre walk from the carpark brings you to the most breathtaking scenery in the National Park. From the safety of the lookout, the gorge plunges 150 metres to the river below where majestic river redgums provide a lush contrast to the earthy hews of the Tumblagooda Sandstone.
Hawk’s Head
Enjoy the views from the picnic area or wander down the newly constructed wheelchair accessible path to the new lookout above the river.
Ross Graham Lookout
This site provides the easiest place in the Park to access the river, with a short walk from the carpark bringing you to the tranquility of the shaded river’s edge.
River Gorge Hikes
For those with greater levels of fitness and experience, there are many gorge hiking options available — from one-day excursions to 4 or 5-day extended hikes.
Further information about these hikes is available from the National Park Office and it is a strict requirement that all overnight groups register with Park staff before making
the trip.
Coastal Cliffs
From Red Bluff, named by Willem de Vlamingh in 1697, the spectacular coastal cliffs extend 13km to the Park’s southern boundary and offer panoramic views, whale watching sites and secluded beaches.
Coast and Cliff Risk Areas
Stay clear of cliff edges and overhangs. Keep to the paths and use the lookouts where provided. Keep clear of the water’s edge as big seas have claimed lives.
Mushroom Rock Walk Trail
See how nature has shaped this dramatic coastal landscape. Marvel at the varied geological formations and witness kangaroos feeding (best seen dawn and dusk) amidst the beautiful coastal heath. Allow an hour to stroll the marked circuit that connects Rainbow Valley and Mushroom Rock.
Pot Alley
The view south from the carpark truly captures the splendour and beauty of this remarkable coastline. Amble down the stepped path to the secluded beach below and perhaps chance upon a craypot cast ashore on stormy seas.
Eagle Gorge
Enjoy the panorama from the crest or wander down into the tranquil depths of the gorge, where you will discover a delightful beach. Watch as eagles soar in the updrafts searching for hapless prey below.
Island Rock and Natural Bridge
As the coastline slowly yields to the force of the ocean, the fracturing and decaying of the cliffs sculpt some rather precarious rock formations. Spectacular views can be enjoyed from the safety of the lookout enclosures provided.
Comfort and Safety
Water: Drinking water is not available in the National Park, so always carry your own supply. During hot conditions it is recommended that you allow 3 to 4 litres of water per person per day.
Cliff Risk Area: Stay clear of cliff edges and overhangs. Keep to the paths and lookouts where provided.
Clothing and Footwear: Sturdy footwear, a hat, sunscreen and insect-repellent are essential ingredients to help make your National Park visit a happy and safe one.
National Park Admission
Invest in the future of Kalbarri’s natural environment with a National Park Pass. Fees apply as follows (as of May 2003):
Day Pass - Provides entry to Kalbarri National Park for a day visit.
$9 per vehicle (up to eight properly seated people)
$3 per vehicle for seniors’ card or aged pension card holders
$3 per motorcycle
Holiday Pass - Entry to any WA National Park for up to four weeks.
$22.50 per vehicle
Annual Local Park Pass - Allows entry to Kalbarri National Park for one year from date of purchase.
$17 per vehicle
All Parks Annual Pass - Entry to any National Park in Western Australia for 12 months.
$51 per vehicle
Where To Get A Pass - Park Passes are available at the National Park Entry Station on the Loop Z-Bend entry road. The station is manned most days. A ticketing machine and self-registration system is also available for times when the station is unattended. Carparks are regularly patrolled by rangers and tickets need to be properly displayed on the dashboard. A full range of passes is also available from the Kalbarri Visitor Centre.
Park Tours - One of the best ways to experience the many wonders that the Kalbarri National Park has to offer is with a tour guide and in the company of others. We encourage you to consider the wide range of tour opportunities available with our friendly and experienced local operators. All tour and booking enquiries can be made through the Kalbarri Visitor Centre.
For more information contact: Kalbarri National Park Office, PO Box 37, Kalbarri 6536
Phone (08) 9937 1140 Mobile 0417 181 314 or visit Nature Base at www.naturebase.net
|
