Trail Fast Facts
Barrk Marlam Walk is a 7km, grade 5 track in Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory. The walk typically takes 5 hours to complete.
Warning
Heat stress and dehydration are very real dangers here. Take simple steps to keep you and your family safe. Temperatures are considered extreme once it reaches 36 degrees Celsius or above.
Hike Overview
The Barrk Marlam Walk in Kakadu National Park is a demanding 7-kilometre journey designed for experienced bushwalkers. This Grade 5 track rewards those with excellent fitness with breathtaking views across the Jim Jim Falls escarpment.
The marked trail branches off from the Jim Jim Falls plunge pool track and leads through the rugged Stone Country, characteristic of the Arnhem Land Plateau. The path is steep and challenging, making it unsuitable for anyone but the most prepared hikers.
Despite the difficulty, the summit boasts panoramic vistas that make the effort worthwhile. Remember to bring plenty of water and wear sturdy shoes with good grip for the rocky terrain.
The Barrk Marlam Walk is open from June to October only, and a four-wheel drive vehicle is necessary to access the trailhead. Be sure to check the latest Kakadu access report for current road conditions before setting off. A park pass is also mandatory for entry into Kakadu National Park.
Track Grade
Grade 5 (Difficult) - Walks for the Most Experienced: Grade 5 represents the most challenging walking tracks on the AWTGS. These are only recommended for very experienced and fit walkers with specialised skills, including navigation and emergency first aid. Tracks are likely to be very rough, very steep, and unmarked. Walks may be more than 20 kilometers. These challenging walks demand a high level of fitness and experience to navigate difficult terrain, significant elevation changes, and potentially unformed paths.
Tips
- Heat stress and dehydration are very real dangers here. Take simple steps to keep you and your family safe. Temperatures are considered extreme once it reaches 36 degrees Celsius or above.
- Walk in the cooler parts of the day (before 11.00 am)
- Carry and drink at least one litre of water per person per hour
- Take frequent breaks to eat healthy snacks
- Carry a first aid kit on long bushwalks
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 267 m
Min elevation: 46 m
Total climbing: 290 m
Total descent: -290 m
Trailhead
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Getting there
Reaching the Barrk Marlam Walk trailhead requires careful planning and a suitable vehicle. Due to its remote location, access is only possible with a four-wheel drive vehicle during the dry season (typically June to October). Ensure you check the latest Kakadu road report for any closures or road conditions before you depart.
The walk itself begins by branching off from the Jim Jim Falls plunge pool track. To get there, head south along the Kakadu Highway from Jabiru township for approximately 60 kilometres. Turn left onto Jim Jim Road and follow this unsealed track for a further 63 kilometres. The trailhead for the Jim Jim Falls plunge pool track will be clearly marked along this route. Once you've completed the Jim Jim Falls walk (optional), you'll find the Barrk Marlam Walk branching off nearby. Remember, this is a challenging hike in a remote area, so be sure to be well-prepared before setting off.
Photo gallery
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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.
Similar trails nearby
Looking for things to do in Kakadu National Park? Try these hikes or bushwalks.
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.