The Jim Jim Creek Lookout Walk offers a tranquil escape in Kakadu National Park. This short trail leads from a shaded picnic area near the Jim Jim Creek crossing to a rocky outcrop, rewarding hikers with breathtaking panoramic views.
The walk begins at a shady picnic area, providing a welcome respite before the climb. As you venture deeper, keep your eyes peeled for the captivating sight of hundreds of common crow butterflies fluttering amidst the monsoonal rainforest along Jim Jim Creek. The towering Lophostemon trees, also known as red paperbarks, add a touch of grandeur to the landscape. Take a moment to observe the lively scene – spangled drongos flitting through the branches, while sulfur-crested and red-tailed black cockatoos add their vibrant calls to the symphony of the forest.
The path then opens up, requiring only a short climb to reach the lookout. Here, you'll be rewarded with a stunning 360-degree panorama. Take in the rugged beauty of the Escarpment Country stretching out before you, contrasting with the lush vegetation blanketing Jim Jim Creek far below.
This site also holds geological significance. Keen geology enthusiasts will be fascinated by the exposed dark granite rock, an astonishing 1,800 million years old! This ancient formation was exposed for a staggering 100 million years before being overlaid by the lighter tan Kambolgie sandstone, a mere 1,650 million years ago.
The Jim Jim Creek Lookout Walk is a fantastic add-on if you're already visiting the nearby Jim Jim Falls or Barrk Marlam Walk. It's a short and rewarding hike that offers a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape and a glimpse into Kakadu's ancient geological history.
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Main image: Parks Australia
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Total distance: 883 m
Max elevation: 78 m
Min elevation: 46 m
Total climbing: 45 m
Total descent: -44 m
Getting to the trailhead: Kakadu National Park.
Reaching the 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 following 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.
Closest towns to this walk: Adelaide River, Arnhem Land, Batchelor, Cooinda, Darwin, Gunbalanya, Humpty Doo, Jabiru, Kakadu Village, Katherine, Maningrida, Mary River, Nourlangie, Pine Creek
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.
Looking for more walks in or near Kakadu National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the
AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.
Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure
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