The Jawoyn name for Katherine Gorge is Nitmiluk Gorge and it’s one of the best natural wonders in the Northern Territory of Australia. There are several gorges within Nitmiluk National Park carved into sandstone which makes for a stunning landscape of vertical rock faces and calm water. Whether you’re looking for adventure or just a escape in nature, Katherine Gorge will leave you with lifelong memories.
What is Katherine Gorge?
The Katherine River flows through Nitmiluk National Park. The gorge has cliffs, pure water and an indigenous history. The place where Katherine Gorge and Nitmiluk National Park is located is known for its rugged topography and diverse ecosystems. With cliffs and plenty of water, the stunning gorge is perfect for many outdoor activities and cultural events. There are several gorges, 2nd Gorge, 5th Gorge and 8th Gorge, each with its own cultural experience and views.
Katherine Gorge Location
Darwin is 320km northeast of Katherine River, and Nitmiluk National Park surrounds it to the north. This facility is accessed via a tar-sealed road called “gorge road” off the Captain Cook Highway into Katherine Visitor Centre, which is situated in this beautiful rugged landscape with a deep cultural history with the Aboriginal people who live nearby (“Nitmiluk National Park”). It’s a wilderness because it’s so remote.
Getting there
You can get to Katherine Gorge by car, bus or plane, depending on your budget. From Darwin, take the Stuart Highway south to Katherine, then Nitmiluk National Park (“Nitmiluk: Places to Visit”). Depending on the road conditions at the time of travel, it takes about 3-4 hours. You can also catch a bus from Darwin to Katherine, which is a convenient option (“Katherine Gorge” n.pag). Daily flights are available from Darwin Airport to Katherine Airport. From there you can hire a car or take public transport to the park.
The best time to visit
Best time to visit is May to October when it’s dry and warm with low humidity. It’s during these months you can walk the trails, take scenic flights over the gorge and cruise boat (Cavana 63). From November to April there is lots of rain, rivers are swollen, and river crossings are difficult, but the landscapes are dramatic and full of lush vegetation and many ecosystems.
Where to Stay
You can camp or stay in luxury lodges around Katherine Gorge. If you want to sleep close to nature, Nitmiluk Visitor Centre has various accommodation options including unpowered campsites or caravan parks (Wilkins 29). Or there are many lodges and resorts within the Katherine municipality (Hammond 53). If you want to do something different, try camping at overnight self-camp sites within the park or book cabins that look out over the gorge.
Getting around Katherine Gorge
Nitmiluk Walks
Katherine Gorge, within Nitmiluk National Park, is stunning and diverse. The Nitmiluk Gorge Walks have many trails, each a different way to experience the park. From easy loops through lush environments to challenging hikes with views, there’s a walking trail for every level of walker.
Butterfly Gorge Loop
One of the best spots is Butterfly Gorge Walk. This is a medium walk through wetlands, woodlands and sandstone cliffs. The track is famous for the butterfly population that makes this landscape perfect for them and their colours and flight. And as you walk you’ll have many opportunities to see wildlife or take photos to capture the park’s beauty.
Butterfly Gorge Loop is open all year, but it’s best to visit during cooler weather when it’s easier to hike. The track is well-signposted and suitable for both beginners and experts. You can stop at any point with views so you can connect with nature on this loop.
Jedda’s Rock and Pat’s Lookout Loop
Jedda’s Rock and Pat’s Lookout Loop is for the adventurous, as it’s rough and steep. The track is only for experienced walkers who are ready for a tough walk with views of Katherine Gorge and the surrounding wilderness.
As you climb through the rocky bits of the track, you’ll get views of the park’s vastness. Climbing can be tough but the views at Pat’s Lookout are worth it – from here you can see for miles. From here you can see the entire Nitmiluk National Park, the serpentine rivers have cut through the red sandstone cliffs on all sides, leaving deep gorges.
This track is for experienced walkers, so don’t attempt it unless you are fit enough to finish without heat stroke! Bring lots of water and hiking boots and hat etc. because once you’re at Jedda’s Rock you’ll never forget the view.
Baruwei Loop via Lookout
The Baruwei Loop is a short and challenging trail with great views of the gorge and Katherine River. This walk is all about what you see. The lookout at the end of this loop is a beautiful spot to see the grandeur of Nitmiluk Gorge and the rock formations that have been carved out of the cliffs over thousands of years.
Baruwei Loop is perfect for those looking for a shorter walk in our beautiful park. The trail is well-maintained and easy to get to, which is great for families or less experienced walkers. Early morning or late afternoon is best for photos if you want to capture the park’s natural beauty.
Nitmiluk National Park Multi-Day Hikes
But there are several multi-day hikes in Nitmiluk National Park that get you into all the different ecosystems and landscapes. These longer walks show you our whole area’s natural and cultural heritage.
Southern Walks
The southern walks in Nitmiluk National Park are various tracks that cover the southern part of the park. These walks go through rocky outcrops, dense forest and open savannah. Each walk gives you a different perspective on life in the park through its plants and animals and where you can see native wildlife.
For those who have never walked before and those who are used to tougher tracks, there’s something for everyone in The Southern Walks. Beautiful scenery and fewer people make it perfect for those looking for a break from the city grind.
Jatbula Trail
One of the most popular multi-day hikes in Nitmiluk National Park is the Jatbula Trail. 62km long from Katherine Gorge to Leliyn (Edith Falls). Depending on your pace or how long you take to stop and look around, the walk takes around 4-5 days.
The Jatbula Trail has tropical rainforest, scenic waterfalls and ancient rock art. You’ll see rock pools, quiet waterholes and big views along the way. You can also see traditional rock art and learn more about the significance of this area to the traditional owners.
It’s a long walk but there are signs along the way; you should be prepared with good hiking gear/ jacket(s), enough water for yourself and supplies for several days of walking/trekking. With the Jatbula trail you get to be fully immersed in the natural and cultural heritage of Nitmiluk National Park.
Nitmiluk Mountain Biking Trails
Nitmiluk National Park has trails to suit all levels of skill so it’s one of Australia’s top biking destinations. The varied terrain in the park means beginners and experienced riders can enjoy their ride through one of the most beautiful places in the Northern Territory.
There are also relatively flat, easy trails that cross the scenic areas so you can pedal and take in the views of the landscape and rock formations. These easy trails are for those who just want to cruise and take in the beauty of Nitmiluk.
However, for extreme riders, there are rough tracks with technical sections that require more skill and endurance. These steep tracks go through quaky slopes, rocky surfaces or narrow corners, so you have to be an expert biker. The reward is awesome because you’ll feel like a boss and take in the views.
Whatever your level of cycling experience Nitmiluk has trails for all kinds of bikers. By providing safety measures and upgrading the trails the park is giving adventure seekers a go.
Katherine Gorge Cruise
Cruising Katherine Gorge is another way to see this massive gorge from a different angle. Sandstone cliffs tower above the Katherine River, and you drift silently down the river, moments to last a lifetime.
Cruises run all day and have different times for everyone. On these trips, guides will talk about the region’s history, including its cultural significance to the local indigenous people and how it has changed geologically over millions of years. It’s a visually stunning education.
Look out for wildlife as you cruise down the river. There are many species of birds, fish and sometimes big animals. The peace and being guided by experts means all cruises are great for wildlife enthusiasts and history buffs.
Katherine Gorge Canoeing
Canoeing in Katherine Gorge is a way to slow down and enjoy the park at your own pace. Paddling down a gorge gets you closer to nature than walking past the rock formations and still water.
At Nitmiluk Visitor Centre, you can hire canoes from staff who will guide you through routes or safety requirements. Whether you want a short trip or a full day, there’s scenery to see.
Paddling through the gorge gives you a different perspective on the geology and the environment. The calm waters of the canyon are great for wildlife spotting and relaxing in a serene atmosphere. If you like being quiet and close to the earth, try this.
Nitmiluk National Park Scenic Flight
For a bird’s eye view of Nitmiluk National Park book a scenic flight and it will show you everything including the size and scale of the rocks. This is what happens during the flights over the gorges: you see the walls of the gorge from above and the patterns on them from the rocks and the sheer size of the whole area.
Scenic flight gives you a bird’s eye view of Nitmiluk National Park. Up high you can see the gorges, river meanders and rough country. It’s exhilarating and humbling and you can take good photos to remember the good times at that height.
Edith Falls / Leliyn
Edith Falls (Leliyn) is one of the most gorgeous spots in Nitmiluk National Park. This waterfall cascades down in steps through rock ledges into several pools to swim in. The area around Edith Falls is stunning and peaceful.
There are walks to various vantage points around the falls to take photos or just wander. Short and easy and longer and harder for all abilities and fitness levels.
Edith Falls is also a great place to picnic and rest. There are designated picnic areas where you can sit and eat while the beautiful waterfall is beside you and greenery all around.
Unwind at Katherine Hot Springs
After a day of exploring Nitmiluk National Park, take a dip and relax at the Katherine Hot Springs. The springs are warm and mineral-rich.
The green surroundings make it even more relaxing. These warm water bodies are good for you and perfect for soaking after a day of being outdoors.
Everyone can get here as it’s on the way to town and they give tourists peace and quiet where they can be with nature and get in the mineral water.
Conclusion
Katherine Gorge is one of the best parts of Australia, there’s so much to do and see. Whether you like hiking, kayaking or just being in wonder of the landscape, there’s plenty to see in Nitmiluk National Park and Katherine Gorge itself. Cruises and mountain biking and rock art and hot springs wherever you go here is just bliss when you get amongst the natural beauty of this place.
FAQ
When to visit Katherine Gorge?
The best time to visit is during the dry season (May-Oct) with no rain, and hot but not humid.
How long is Jatbula Trail?
4-5 days 62kms from Edith Falls to Katherine Gorge.
Are there tours to Katherine Gorge?
Guided Nitmiluk tours such as boat cruises up river, canoeing along the water and even helicopter flights over the falls so you can see what goes on down here and have a fun experience you won’t forget.
Can I hire canoes?
Yes, from Nitmiluk Visitor Centre.
Where to stay?
Nitmiluk Chalets and Campground, Cicada Lodge and a few town motels and hotels.
