Windjana Gorge National Park

Windjana Gorge National Park is a dramatic slice of the Kimberley where a 3.5-kilometre gorge cuts through the ancient Devonian Reef. The sheer limestone walls rise up to 100 metres, and the permanent waterhole at the base attracts freshwater crocodiles and flocks of corellas at dusk. It’s a place of raw beauty and palpable history, with Indigenous significance spanning tens of thousands of years.

Highlights & What to See

• Freshwater Crocodile Spotting – Walk the sandy riverbed and you’ll see dozens of freshwater crocs sunning themselves on the banks. They’re shy and generally harmless, but keep a respectful distance.
• Gorge Walk – The easy 7 km return trail (allow 2–3 hours) follows the Lennard River through the gorge, with towering cliffs and abundant birdlife – look for bowerbirds, kites and the spectacular purple-crowned fairywren.
• Fossilised Reef – The walls are part of the 350-million-year-old Devonian Reef; you can spot ancient coral and shell fossils embedded in the limestone.
• Indigenous Rock Art – Several galleries of Wandjina and Gwion Gwion paintings are visible along the cliff faces, best viewed with a local guide for context.
• Sunset from the Gorge Mouth – As the sun drops, the red cliffs glow and thousands of corellas fly in to roost – a classic Kimberley moment.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 2–3 hours walking the gorge, plus extra time for photography and croc-watching. If you’re camping at the adjacent Windjana Gorge Campground (basic facilities), you can enjoy early-morning and late-afternoon light. The gorge is often visited as a half-day stop on the Gibb River Road, but an overnight stay lets you soak up the atmosphere.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Tunnel Creek National Park – 35 km north, this 750-metre-long cave system with an underground creek is a thrilling adventure (bring a torch and wear sturdy shoes).
• Geikie Gorge National Park – 145 km south-west near Fitzroy Crossing, a boat cruise through this gorge reveals more Devonian Reef geology and abundant wildlife.
• Gibb River Road – Windjana Gorge is a classic stop on this iconic 4WD route; combine with Bell Gorge and Manning Gorge further north.
• Fitzroy Crossing – A good base for fuel and supplies, with the Mangkaja Arts Centre showcasing local Indigenous art.
• Derby – 150 km north-west, the nearest town with supermarkets, accommodation and the famous Derby Boab Prison Tree.

Please check official sources for current details.