Explore WA’s Rugged Beauty – Trails, Lookouts, and Local Tips
Red Rocks, Deep Gorges, and Endless Horizons
Welcome to Kalbarri National Park — a breathtaking natural wonder where the outback meets the sea. Stretching across more than 180,000 hectares, the park is home to ancient gorges, dramatic coastal cliffs, seasonal wildflowers, and unforgettable views. Whether you’re hiking deep into the gorge, taking a scenic drive, or just soaking up the sunset, this guide will help you make the most of your visit.
Kalbarri National Park isn’t just a destination — it’s a journey through time and terrain. From the ancient sandstone cliffs to the twisting gorges and ocean vistas, every lookout and trail offers a new way to connect with nature. It’s where red dirt meets big skies, and every step tells a story.
Why Visit Kalbarri National Park? A Complete Guide
1. Nature’s Window
A true WA icon — this natural rock arch frames the Murchison River below, offering one of the most photographed views in the region. It’s a short, well-marked walk from the carpark and a must-do for every visitor.
Local Tip: Go early in the morning before it gets too hot — and don’t forget your water!
2. Kalbarri Skywalk
Perched 100m above the gorge, the twin cantilevered Skywalk platforms provide jaw-dropping panoramic views. Interpretive signage shares stories of the Nanda people — Traditional Custodians of this Country. Wheelchair-accessible and family-friendly.
Local Tip: Bring a picnic and enjoy the moment. It’s pure magic.
3. The Loop & Z-Bend Trails
These hikes range from moderate to challenging and are best tackled in the cooler months. The Loop is a 9km circuit showcasing some of the best river and cliff views. Z-Bend offers both a short lookout walk and a more adventurous trail down to the riverbed.
Local Tip: Plenty of water, good shoes and a wide brimmed hat are a must.
4. Ross Graham Lookout
A peaceful spot for those who prefer a gentle stroll. The lookout offers sweeping views of the gorge, and there’s a short path down to the river’s edge — perfect for families or slower-paced travellers.
Local Tip: —Visit Ross Graham Lookout in the late afternoon for softer light and fewer crowds
5. Kalbarri Coastal Cliffs
Don’t miss the park’s coastal section, with powerful ocean views and sheer cliffs that stretch from Red Bluff to Natural Bridge. Each lookout (Pot Alley, Island Rock, Eagle Gorge) has its own unique personality and photo ops.
Local Tip: Time your visit to Island Rock or Pot Alley for late afternoon — the sun lights up the cliffs in rich reds and golds, perfect for photos (and quieter too once the tour buses have gone!). Grab fish and chips beforehand and enjoy your own sunset dinner with a view.
6. Meanarra Hill Lookout – Where It All Comes Together
Located just 5km east of Kalbarri town, Meanarra Hill offers one of the most complete panoramic views in the region. From this elevated vantage point, you can take in sweeping 360-degree views — across the coastal cliffs, the township, the winding Murchison River, and the inland stretches of Kalbarri National Park.
It’s a fantastic spot to visit early in your stay, especially if you want to get your bearings and appreciate just how varied the Kalbarri landscape really is.
Local Tip: Head up just before sunset with a thermos or snack — it’s peaceful, rarely crowded, and you’ll get a spectacular golden glow across the gorges and out to sea.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
- Autumn & Spring are ideal for hiking and sightseeing — mild temperatures and vibrant wildflowers (Aug–Oct).
- Summer is very hot inland. Visit early in the day and stick to coastal areas for sea breezes.
- Winter is great for photography and whale watching along the cliffs.
Getting There & Park Access
- Kalbarri National Park is split into two main areas:
- Inland Gorges (Skywalk, Nature’s Window, Z-Bend) – About a 30-minute drive from town via Ajana-Kalbarri Rd.
- Coastal Cliffs (Red Bluff, Pot Alley) – Just 5–10 minutes south of Kalbarri.
- Entry Fee: $15 per vehicle
- Passes: WA Parks Passes available for frequent visitors
Accessibility & Facilities
- The Skywalk and Nature’s Window carpark have accessible toilets and pathways.
- Most lookouts have parking bays and shaded picnic areas.
- Drinking water is limited — bring plenty, especially in warmer months.
Seasonal Tips
- Wildflowers bloom in late winter to spring (Aug–Oct), turning the landscape into a patchwork of pinks, purples, and yellows.
- Whales can be spotted along the coast from June to November.
- Flies can be pesky in warmer months — a fly net will save your sanity!
Local Photography Spots
- Sunrise: Z-Bend or Ross Graham Lookout for golden light hitting the gorge walls.
- Midday: Skywalk for full views of the gorge and river bend.
- Sunset: Island Rock or Red Bluff for fiery skies over the ocean.
