This is one of two Class 4 designated hiking trails in the Kennedy Range. The other being the Escarpment Trail. If you are physically able, this short two kilometre return trail offers a rock scrambling challenge as well some great views.
The Drapers Gorge walk is deceptively easy enough for the first section. So you would think for fast walkers, it would be a mere stroll in the park. The reality is however, very much the opposite. As you progress up the stony watercourse, the haRoader it gets. If your aim is to get to the trail's end, obstacles will have to be overcome. There is a lot of scrambling up and down steep loose stony slopes. There are some narrow rock ledges and overhangs to negotiate. Great care should be taken, especially on the upper parts of this trail. Along the well-marked path, you will come across a series of pools that, after rain maybe full, complete with seasonal waterfalls. You can only imagine the roaring rush of water plummeting down this narrow creek after really heavy rain. This is one of six walk trials in the park - Temple Gorge, Honeycomb Gorge, Drapers Gorge, the Escarpment Trail (leading to the top of the range), the Escarpment Base Trail, and Sunrise View.
Start Point: Draper Gorge Car Park, south of the Kennedy Range campsite, 150km from Carnarvon which is 900km (9.5hours) north of Perth
End Point: Draper Gorge Car Park, south of the Kennedy Range campsite, 150km from Carnarvon which is 900km (9.5hours) north of Perth
Region: Kennedy Range National Park, Coral Coast
For more information, a location map and GPS file please visit Trails WA.
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Getting there
Closest towns to this walk: Gascoyne Junction, Mount Augustus, Andover, Murchison, Coral Bay
How to get to Kennedy Range National Park
Photo gallery
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About the region
Scenic landscapes, wilderness, wildflowers, camping, walk trails, night skies, geology €“ gemstones and marine fossils (to observe only), bird watching and outback photography are some of the attractions at Kennedy Range National Park. Kennedy Range is known as 'Mundatharrda' to the local Inggarda Aboriginal language group. Kennedy Range is a vast elevated north-south oriented sandstone plateau between 12 and 25km wide and about 75km long. The rocks that comprise the range were originally deposited beneath the sea. Over time they were compressed to form sandstone, then faulted, uplifted and tilted towards the west. Subsequent erosion has isolated the plateau 80m above the surrounding plain. The vegetation of the plain is acacia shrubland (mostly mulga), which shades an abundance of seasonal understory of flowering annuals (including everlastings).
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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.
Explore safe
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.
Packing checklists
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.
Let someone know
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
Suggest an edit
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.