While swimming in a freezing cold plunge pool with a waterfall raining down from above, the intense blue sky and baking hot sun are the only reminders of Karijini's location in the harsh Australian outback.
Background
The region is traditional home to the Banyjima, Kurrama and Innawonga Aborigine tribes, whose occupation is thought to date back more than twenty thousand years. Karijini, formerly known as Hammersley Range NP, exists in splendid isolation in the Pilbarra region of the state, just north of the Tropic of Capricorn, a mammoth 1400km north of the state capital Perth and nearly 900km from the white sand and sunset camel rides of Broome in the tropical north west. Winter is a good time to visit, when it's hot and dry, or spring when the park comes alive with wildlowers.
Gorge Walking
Karijini is a dream come true for any outdoor or adventure enthusiast. The park is full of hiking trails that take you among the gorges, some relatively straightforward, others gruelling. Whenever attempting any of these trails, sturdy footwear and a good supply of water is esential.
Dales Gorge and Circular Pool
This trail is one of the most beautiful that Karijini has to offer. The 4km track runs along the bottom of the gorge where the harsh, red earth contrasts brilliantly with the blue sky above, and the sparkling green water below. Clamber up and over rocks and shuffle nervously along ledges while taking in the different shades of red, white and orange that make up the sheer rock faces. It's also possible to tackle the steep descent down to the gardens of Circular Pool for a refreshing swim.
Fortescue Falls
This walk drops you down to Fern Pool and the spectacular Fortescue Falls, Karijini's only permanent waterfall. A great spot for a swim and a spot of lunch.
Oxers Lookout
Oxers Lookout is arguably the most spectacular sight in Karijini National Park, and one of the most memorable anywhere in Australia. It's the point where four gorges - Red, Weano, Joffre and Hancock, all meet. It's a truly stunning scene, where the vibrant colours of the outback come alive in all their glory.
It's possible to explore the depths of the steep, narrow Hancock Gorge, a spectacular descent that starts via a ladder.
Where to Stay
Sleeping under the stars and listening to the sounds of the outback at night is a great experience. Camping will also make it easier to view the spectacular sunrise and sunset, particularly at Oxers Lookout. The Dales Camping Area is situated close to Dales Gorge and Fortescue Falls and another site is the Karijini Eco Retreat.
Getting There
One of the most popular ways to explore Karijini is to join a guided tour.
Background
The region is traditional home to the Banyjima, Kurrama and Innawonga Aborigine tribes, whose occupation is thought to date back more than twenty thousand years. Karijini, formerly known as Hammersley Range NP, exists in splendid isolation in the Pilbarra region of the state, just north of the Tropic of Capricorn, a mammoth 1400km north of the state capital Perth and nearly 900km from the white sand and sunset camel rides of Broome in the tropical north west. Winter is a good time to visit, when it's hot and dry, or spring when the park comes alive with wildlowers.
Gorge Walking
Karijini is a dream come true for any outdoor or adventure enthusiast. The park is full of hiking trails that take you among the gorges, some relatively straightforward, others gruelling. Whenever attempting any of these trails, sturdy footwear and a good supply of water is esential.
Dales Gorge and Circular Pool
This trail is one of the most beautiful that Karijini has to offer. The 4km track runs along the bottom of the gorge where the harsh, red earth contrasts brilliantly with the blue sky above, and the sparkling green water below. Clamber up and over rocks and shuffle nervously along ledges while taking in the different shades of red, white and orange that make up the sheer rock faces. It's also possible to tackle the steep descent down to the gardens of Circular Pool for a refreshing swim.
- A less challenging alternative is a 1km walk along the rim of Dales Gorge to a lookout above Circular Pool.
Fortescue Falls
This walk drops you down to Fern Pool and the spectacular Fortescue Falls, Karijini's only permanent waterfall. A great spot for a swim and a spot of lunch.
Oxers Lookout
Oxers Lookout is arguably the most spectacular sight in Karijini National Park, and one of the most memorable anywhere in Australia. It's the point where four gorges - Red, Weano, Joffre and Hancock, all meet. It's a truly stunning scene, where the vibrant colours of the outback come alive in all their glory.
It's possible to explore the depths of the steep, narrow Hancock Gorge, a spectacular descent that starts via a ladder.
- There are also steps leading down to Weano Gorge and a trail that leads to the bottom of Joffre Gorge.
Where to Stay
Sleeping under the stars and listening to the sounds of the outback at night is a great experience. Camping will also make it easier to view the spectacular sunrise and sunset, particularly at Oxers Lookout. The Dales Camping Area is situated close to Dales Gorge and Fortescue Falls and another site is the Karijini Eco Retreat.
- Both sites have bush toilets, gas barbecues and sites for tents and caravans.
Getting There
One of the most popular ways to explore Karijini is to join a guided tour.
- Adventure Tours has a 10 day trip from Perth to Broome which features two full days in Karijini and also includes Nambung National Park, Kalbarri and the Ningaloo Reef.
- Easyrider Adventure Travel has a three day tour from Broome to Exmouth or six days from Broome to Perth, both including a day in Karijini.
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