Niitmiluk National Park

Niitmiluk National Park, formerly known as Katherine Gorge, is a spectacular showcase of the Top End's rugged beauty. Carved by the Katherine River over millennia, this ancient landscape of towering sandstone cliffs, deep gorges, and cascading waterfalls is sacred to the Jawoyn people, whose rock art adorns the canyon walls. Whether you paddle the still waters at dawn, hike the escarpment for sweeping views, or cruise through the gorge system, this is a place that demands your full attention.

Highlights & What to See

• Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk Gorge): The park's centerpiece – a series of 13 gorges best explored by canoe, kayak, or boat cruise. The sheer cliffs rise up to 70 metres, and the water reflects the ochre stone in mesmerising patterns.
• Jawoyn Rock Art Sites: Look out for ancient paintings along the gorge walls, particularly at the Nabilil and Jatbula Trail sites. A ranger-led tour offers deep insight into the cultural significance.
• Jatbula Trail: A 62-kilometre, 5-day trek from Katherine Gorge to Leliyn (Edith Falls), winding through monsoon forests, waterfalls, and sandstone plateaus. It's one of the Northern Territory's finest walks.
• Leliyn (Edith Falls): A series of plunge pools and waterfalls about 30 kilometres north of the main gorge. The swimming hole at the base of the upper falls is sublime.
• Butterfly Gorge: A short, easy walk leads to a narrow chasm where thousands of butterflies gather in the wet season – a magical sight.

Suggested Time to Spend

Give Niitmiluk at least two full days. Spend the first day on the water: a half-day canoe trip through the first two gorges (about 5 km return) is perfect, or take a guided boat cruise that goes deeper into the gorge system. Use the second day to tackle a hike – the Jatbula Trail requires a full day for a section, or you can do the shorter 3.6 km Baruwei Lookout Walk for panoramic views. If you're short on time, a half-day visit with a cruise and a quick dip at Edith Falls still delivers the essence.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Katherine: The gateway town, 30 km away, with supplies, accommodation, and the famous Katherine Outback Experience show.
• Nitmiluk National Park (Edith Falls): The northern section of the park, with its own swimming holes and the start of the Jatbula Trail.
• Cutta Cutta Caves Nature Park: A limestone cave system 27 km south of Katherine, home to unique wildlife and ancient formations.
• Mataranka Hot Springs: About 100 km south, these thermal pools are a perfect place to soak after hiking, with crystal-clear 34°C water.
• Katherine Gorge: The gorge itself is within the park, but many travellers base themselves in Katherine and visit as a day trip.

Please check official sources for current details.