Fitzroy Developmental Road

The Fitzroy Developmental Road is a rugged, remote driving route that slices through the heart of the Kimberley in Western Australia. This unsealed road offers a true outback adventure, connecting the Great Northern Highway near Derby to the Gibb River Road, and is your gateway to some of the most spectacular and isolated landscapes in the country. Expect red dirt, ancient gorges, and a sense of wilderness that feels a world away from civilization.

Highlights & What to See

• Geikie Gorge National Park: A stunning gorge carved by the Fitzroy River, with boat tours that reveal dramatic cliffs and diverse wildlife, including freshwater crocodiles and fruit bats.
• Tunnel Creek National Park: An adventurous walk through a 750-metre-long cave system, where you can wade through water and spot bats in the darkness – bring a torch and sturdy shoes.
• Windjana Gorge National Park: A breathtaking gorge with towering limestone walls, a permanent waterhole, and a large population of freshwater crocodiles basking on the banks.
• Fitzroy Crossing: A small but essential town for fuel and supplies, and the launch point for exploring the surrounding national parks. Don't miss the local art centre showcasing Indigenous works.
• Indigenous Rock Art: Along the road, look for ancient Aboriginal rock art sites that tell stories of the region's deep cultural history – guided tours are available at some locations.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan for at least three to four days to drive the Fitzroy Developmental Road and properly explore its highlights. The road itself is around 300 kilometres from Derby to the Gibb River Road junction, but the slow going on unsealed surfaces (allow 5–7 hours driving time) and the temptation to stop at gorges and walks means you'll want to break the journey. Two nights camping near Windjana or Tunnel Creek is ideal, plus an extra day for a boat tour at Geikie Gorge. If you're continuing onto the Gibb River Road, factor in another week for that epic route.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Derby: The historic town at the start of the road, with its famous boab tree prison and incredible king tides.
• Broome: A vibrant coastal town known for Cable Beach, pearl farms, and the stunning red cliffs of Gantheaume Point – about 2.5 hours' drive west.
• Gibb River Road: One of Australia's most iconic outback drives, leading to remote cattle stations, waterfalls, and the Bungle Bungle Range in Purnululu National Park.
• King Leopold Ranges: A rugged mountain range with walking trails and lookouts, accessible via the Gibb River Road or from Derby.

Please check official sources for current details.