Mitchell Plateau

Rising abruptly from the tropical savannah of the far north Kimberley, Mitchell Plateau is a remote, red-rock tableland that feels like the edge of the world. This is one of Western Australia’s most dramatic landscapes, where ancient sandstone escarpments plunge into deep gorges and year-round waterfalls crash over the edge into the Timor Sea. Accessible only by 4WD or scenic flight, the plateau rewards intrepid travellers with extraordinary views, wild swimming holes, and a profound sense of isolation. It’s also the gateway to the famous Mitchell Falls – a four-tiered cascade that is the Kimberley’s most iconic waterfall.

Highlights & What to See

• Mitchell Falls (Munanurra): A spectacular series of four waterfalls dropping over 80 m into a deep pool. The 4.5 km return walking track from the campground is one of the Kimberley’s best day walks, passing smaller falls and rock art en route.
• Mitchell Plateau Escarpment Lookout: Perched on the edge of the plateau, this viewpoint offers dizzying panoramas of the Mitchell River gorge, the distant coastline, and the vast expanse of the Kimberley.
• Aboriginal Rock Art: The plateau is dotted with ancient Gwion Gwion (Bradshaw) and Wandjina rock art sites, some of the oldest and most enigmatic in Australia. A guided tour with a local Indigenous ranger provides deep insight.
• Mitchell River: The river cuts through the plateau in a series of deep gorges and tranquil pools. Take a scenic flight for a bird’s-eye view of the entire river system and the falls.
• King Edward River Crossing: A popular swimming spot near the campground, this wide, clear river is perfect for a refreshing dip after a day of hiking.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 2–3 days camping on the plateau. This gives you time to do the Mitchell Falls walk (allow at least 3–4 hours), explore a couple of rock-art sites, and take a scenic flight (30–60 minutes) for an unforgettable aerial perspective. If you’re self-driving, factor in a full day each way from the Gibb River Road, as the track is rough and slow. A longer stay of 4–5 days allows for more relaxed exploration and side trips to nearby gorges.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Kalumburu: The Aboriginal community at the northern end of the Kalumburu Road, offering fuel, supplies, and a glimpse into contemporary Indigenous life.
• Drysdale River Station: A working cattle station and popular stop on the way to the plateau, with basic accommodation and a bush airstrip.
• King Edward River: The river crossing and nearby camping area are a natural extension of your Mitchell Plateau visit.
• Gibb River Road: The iconic Kimberley 4WD route connects Mitchell Plateau to the rest of the region, with gorges, waterfalls, and station stays along the way.
• Wyndham: The nearest town, with the famous Five Rivers Lookout, historic port, and supplies.

Please check official sources for current details.