Nitmiluk National Park

Nitmiluk National Park, centred on the spectacular Katherine Gorge system, is a place where ancient sandstone cliffs plunge into deep, jade-coloured waters. This is Jawoyn Country, and the park’s 13 gorges – carved by the Katherine River over millennia – offer some of the Northern Territory’s most dramatic landscapes. Whether you paddle through the stillness at dawn, hike to a lookout with endless escarpment views, or learn about the Dreamtime stories that imbue every rock face, Nitmiluk is an experience that stays with you.

Highlights & What to See

• Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk Gorge): The park’s centrepiece – a series of 13 gorges best explored by canoe or guided boat tour. The sheer cliffs, sandy beaches and reflections on the water are mesmerising.
• Baruwei Lookout: A short, steep walk rewards with a panoramic view over the first gorge and the Katherine River. Perfect for sunset.
• Leliyn (Edith Falls): A stunning plunge pool at the base of a waterfall, ideal for swimming. The surrounding walks offer more views and quieter pools.
• Nitmiluk Gorge Cruise: A range of cruises (from 2 hours to half-day) take you deep into the gorge system, with guides sharing geology, flora, and Jawoyn stories.
• Jatbula Trail: A 5–6 day, 62 km one-way trek from Nitmiluk to Leliyn, traversing sandstone escarpments, monsoon forests, and waterholes. Permits required.
• Kayaking & Canoeing: Rent a canoe at the visitor centre and paddle at your own pace through the first gorge – you can even camp on designated sandbanks.

Suggested Time to Spend

With a full day, you can do a morning gorge cruise and an afternoon swim at Edith Falls. Two days is ideal: spend the first day on the water (canoe or cruise) and hike to a lookout for sunset; on the second day, tackle the longer walk to the second gorge or drive to Edith Falls for a relaxed afternoon. If you’re a keen hiker, add a third day for the Jatbula Trail or a full-day kayak expedition.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Katherine: The nearest town, with supplies, accommodation, and the famous Katherine Hot Springs – perfect for a soak after hiking.
• Cutta Cutta Caves Nature Park: A limestone cave system 30 km south, with guided tours through stalactite-filled chambers.
• Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge) to Leliyn (Edith Falls): The scenic drive or the Jatbula Trail connects these two iconic spots – don’t miss both.
• Mataranka Thermal Pool: About 100 km south, this crystal-clear spring in Elsey National Park is a dreamy stop for a swim.
• Katherine Outback Experience: A working station that offers horse riding, stockman shows, and a taste of outback life.

Please check official sources for current details.