Trail Fast Facts
Badbong Wodjmeng Sandstone River Walk is a 7.5km, grade 4 hike in Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory. The walk typically takes 4 hours to complete.
Hike Overview
The Badbong Wodjmeng Sandstone River Walk in Kakadu National Park presents a challenging 7.5-kilometre loop trail for experienced hikers. With an estimated completion time of 4 hours, this Grade 4 hike traverses alongside the East Alligator River, offering a glimpse of sandstone formations, pandanus- fringed pools, and the river itself.
Due to the trail's difficulty and potential dangers, a good level of fitness is essential. It's strongly recommended to complete this walk with a companion. While the opportunity for crocodile spotting exists, remember these predators are highly effective hunters. Stay a safe distance from the river and its pools at all times. The walk also provides a chance to observe marrawuddi, the white-bellied sea-eagle, known for snatching fish with their powerful talons.
Track Grade
Grade 4 (Hard) - Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 19 m
Min elevation: 7 m
Total climbing: 49 m
Total descent: -49 m
Trail Location (trailhead)
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Getting there
Reaching the Badbong Wodjmeng Sandstone River Walk trailhead requires a four-wheel drive vehicle due to the track's unsealed and potentially rough terrain. If you're staying at Merl Campground, head south on the Kakadu Highway for approximately 13 kilometres. Turn left onto the Jim Jim Road, a dirt track, and continue for 19 kilometres. The trailhead is located a further 7 kilometres along this track, marked by signage for the Badbong Wodjmeng Sandstone Walk. Remember, this is a remote area, so ensure you have a full tank of fuel and let someone know your planned route before setting off.
Photo gallery
Main image: Parks Australia
If you have any photos from this hike and are happy to share them, please upload your .jpg files here.
Please note: Uploading photos does not transfer ownership of copyright away from you. If requested, you will be credited for any photos you provide and can ask they be deleted at any time.
About the region
Covering nearly 20,000 square kilometres, Kakadu National Park is a World Heritage listing renowned for both its cultural and natural values. See breathtaking horizons from the top of a Kakadu escarpment. Cruise on the stunning Yellow Water Billabong to spot crocodiles and wildlife in their natural habitat, including millions of migratory birds who in part call the park's wetlands home.
Not only is Kakadu spectacular, but you can feel yourself come alive among the lush rainforests, rocky gorges, serene swimming pools and the oldest Aboriginal rock art in the world. With more than 5,000 Aboriginal rock art sites in the park, the Bininj/Mungguy people have called Kakadu home for some 65,000 years. Here they'll teach you about their ancient culture and the regions' dramatic seasons.
Connect with the oldest living culture on earth. The rugged and remote beauty of Kakadu has stories to share that will take your breath away and touch your heart. In Australia's biggest national park you'll find ancient landscapes with thundering waterfalls, lush rainforests, wandering wetlands, exotic wildlife and ancient rock art.
Kakadu offers unrivalled walks to immerse you in nature, satisfy your appetite for adventure, or nurture your curiosity. Only three hours' drive from Darwin, Kakadu National Park has been waiting for you.
Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Let someone know
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
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Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.