Trail summary

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Quick overview: Discover the challenging Bamboo Creek to Walker Creek circuit in Litchfield National Park, a thrilling 13km hike for experienced bushwalkers. This Grade 4 trail takes you through diverse landscapes, connecting the Tabletop Track and Walker Creek Track, and back to the historic Bamboo Creek Tin Mine. Don't forget your parks pass and ensure you're prepared with navigation skills and sun protection for this 7-hour adventure.

Length: 13km

Duration: 7 hrs

Grade 4 (Hard)

Style: Circuit

Start: Bamboo Creek Car Park

End: Bamboo Creek Car Park

Location: Litchfield National Park

State: Northern Territory

Nearby town: Batchelor

From state capital: 120km

Latitude: -13.067480812897614

Longitude: 130.71140527725223

Hike Overview

Map and GPX file

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Hike overview

Designed for experienced hikers, the Bamboo Creek to Walker Creek circuit offers a challenging 13km trek through Litchfield National Park's diverse landscapes. Taking approximately 7 hours to complete, this grade 4 hike is not for the inexperienced walker.

The journey begins at a small carpark along Litchfield Park Road. The initial 2.5km ventures off-trail in a south-easterly direction to connect with the Tabletop Track. Following this track, you'll eventually reach the Walker Creek Track. The final leg of the circuit, roughly 1.5km, deviates from marked trails and runs nearly parallel to Litchfield Park Road, eventually returning to the historic Bamboo Creek Tin Mine via the dam.

Remember, a parks pass is required for all visitors to Litchfield National Park. Due to the challenging nature of the hike, including off-trail sections, it's recommended for experienced hikers who are well-prepared with appropriate navigation skills, adequate supplies, and sun protection.

Contributed by Darwin Wagaman

Tips

Best hiked between March & September
At the start follow Bamboo Creek at least 1.2km before crossing - this avoids a swamp in the upper tablelands
No Phone reception
Start early to avoid the afternoon heat
Tin Miners dam is crocodile accessible - stay on the dam wall & no swimming
Camping fees apply within Litchfield National Park. Contact Park Headquarters at Batchelor for a map and permit information.

Map and GPX file

Bamboo Creek - Tin Mine - Walker Creek Hike (13km)

Total distance: 13095 m
Max elevation: 194 m
Min elevation: 60 m
Total climbing: 336 m
Total descent: -319 m

Download file: Bamboo-Creek-Tin-Mine-Walker-Creek-Loop.gpx

Getting there

Bamboo Creek - Tin Mine - Walker Creek Hike (13km)

Travelling by car, the Bamboo Creek carpark is situated within Litchfield National Park, approximately 19.5 kilometres north of Wangi Falls. From Darwin, take the Stuart Highway south until you see the turnoff for Batchelor Road. Follow the well-marked signs for Litchfield National Park through Batchelor and Rum Jungle. Continue on until you see signage for Wangi Falls. However, instead of turning off for Wangi Falls, proceed past this turnoff and continue for a further 19.5 kilometres along the sealed road. You will then see signage for Bamboo Creek, directing you to the carpark for the walking tracks.

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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.

About the region

Litchfield National Park: A Natural Wonder of the Northern Territory. Litchfield National Park, encompassing roughly 1,500 square kilometres, is a jewel of the Northern Territory. This ancient landscape, shaped by water over millennia, boasts a captivating array of natural wonders. Cascading waterfalls tumble from the sandstone plateau of the Tabletop Range, forming crystal-clear pools ideal for swimming.

The park is significant to the Koongurrukun, Mak Mak Marranunggu, Werat, and Warray Aboriginal people, with their ancestral stories woven into the very fabric of the landscape. Visitors can explore shady monsoon forest walking trails, marvel at the unique magnetic termite mounds, or be awestruck by the weathered sandstone pillars of the Lost City.

A Haven for Adventure
Litchfield National Park offers endless opportunities for exploration. Whether you seek refreshment beneath cascading waterfalls, marvel at fascinating termite mounds, discover hidden waterholes, or challenge yourself on hiking trails, this park caters to all interests. Camping is the primary accommodation option within the park boundaries, but various lodges and resorts are located nearby for those seeking different comforts. Even a well-planned day trip can allow visitors to experience the park's highlights.

History and Accessibility
The park's name honours Frederick Henry Litchfield, a member of the Finniss Expedition, the first European encounter with this region. Extensive mining for tin and copper dominated the area from the late 1800s until the mid-20th century. Declared a national park in 1986, Litchfield has become a haven for nature lovers.

While a sealed road connects the park's major attractions, a four-wheel drive vehicle is necessary to access The Lost City, Homestead, Central Valley, and the Reynolds River Track. During the dry season, this track allows experienced drivers to reach the Daly River Road. Renting a vehicle? Confirm if it's permitted on unsealed roads.

Accessibility is twofold. The park can be reached via the southern entrance near Batchelor or the northern entrance along Peninsula Way, forming the Litchfield Loop. This loop integrates the park with the Cox Peninsula, creating a more extensive sightseeing experience.

A Local Favourite
Litchfield National Park's pristine swimming holes and scenic walking tracks make it a cherished destination for Darwin residents. Basic amenities like meals and refreshments are available near Wangi Falls, while various accommodation options cater to different budgets and preferences, including campsites, cabins, and caravan parks within or near the park, and lodging options in the nearby township of Batchelor.

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Bamboo Creek - Tin Mine - Walker Creek Hike (13km)

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Gear to consider

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe

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Acknowledgement of Country

Bamboo creek - tin mine - walker creek hike (13km)

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.

Trail summary

Hike overview

Tips

Map and GPX file

Bamboo Creek - Tin Mine - Walker Creek Hike (13km)