King Leopold Ranges

Stretching across the remote heart of the Kimberley, the King Leopold Ranges are a dramatic spine of ancient sandstone and quartzite ridges that rise abruptly from the surrounding savannah. This is a land of deep gorges, permanent waterholes and cascading waterfalls, where the raw power of the Australian outback is on full display. The ranges are most famously traversed by the Gibb River Road, a legendary 4WD route that cuts through the escarpment, offering access to some of the region's most spectacular gorges and swimming holes. For travellers seeking a genuine wilderness experience, far from crowds and sealed roads, the King Leopold Ranges deliver an unforgettable encounter with the continent's ancient geology and resilient ecosystems.

Highlights & What to See

• Bell Gorge – A stunning multi-tiered waterfall plunging into a deep, emerald pool. The short walk down to the base is rewarded with one of the Kimberley's classic swimming spots.
• Windjana Gorge – A sheer-walled limestone gorge carved by the Lennard River, famous for its resident freshwater crocodiles that bask on the sandy banks. The walking trail through the gorge is a journey into a prehistoric landscape.
• Tunnel Creek – A unique 750-metre-long cave system that you can wade through, with a pool at the far end. This is the site where Indigenous outlaw Jandamurra (Pigeon) made his last stand, adding a layer of history to the adventure.
• Galvans Gorge – A smaller, more intimate gorge with a permanent waterhole and a beautiful waterfall. The walk in is short and passes a boab tree, making it a perfect quick stop.
• Mount Hart Wilderness Lodge – A historic homestead turned luxury eco-lodge, offering guided tours to nearby Lennard Gorge and a chance to spot wildlife like rock wallabies and black-footed tree-rats.

Suggested Time to Spend

To properly experience the King Leopold Ranges, plan a minimum of three to four days. This allows a relaxed pace along the Gibb River Road, with time to explore the major gorges – Bell, Windjana and Tunnel Creek – and a night or two at a station stay or bush camp. A week is ideal if you want to include side trips to the more remote Lennard Gorge or Mount Barnett's Manning Gorge, and to enjoy the landscape without feeling rushed. The best time to visit is during the dry season (April to October), when the roads are open and the swimming holes are clear.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Derby – The gateway town to the Gibb River Road, known for its massive boab tree and dramatic tidal range. Stock up on supplies here before heading into the ranges.
• Fitzroy Crossing – Access point for the stunning Geikie Gorge (now Darngku Gorge), a striking limestone gorge carved by the Fitzroy River, and a centre for Aboriginal cultural tours.
• Broome – A longer detour but worth it for Cable Beach's sunsets, the historic pearling town and the red cliffs of Gantheaume Point. A perfect end to a Kimberley adventure.
• The Bungle Bungle Range (Purnululu National Park) – A World Heritage-listed marvel of beehive-shaped sandstone domes. Access is via a 4WD track from the Great Northern Highway, and it pairs beautifully with the King Leopold Ranges for a complete Kimberley experience.
• Mitchell Plateau – For the truly adventurous, this remote area offers the Mitchell Falls, a series of four-tiered waterfalls, and some of the most pristine wilderness in Australia. Requires a serious 4WD and careful planning.

Please check official sources for current details.