Trail summary
Hike overview
The Echidna Chasm trail is 2 kilometres return from the carpark and has steep-sided gorge walls up to 200 metres high and barely a metre wide in places. It features prehistoric Livistona palms and gorge walls exhibiting extraordinary colours.
Echidna Chasm is one of the highlights of the World Heritage Site of the Bungle Bungles in Purnululu National Park. The narrow gorge is located 19km north of the visitor's centre. The walk trail is short but has rocky sections that require some moderate climbing.
The trail features gorge walls that rise 200 metres with sections as narrow as one metre. It can be a bit disconcerting looking up and seeing large fallen boulders lodged tight between the walls. Tall Livistona palms provide a spectacular setting near the gorge entrance.
Deep within the gorge, it can be a photographer's delight with the ever-changing light. During the middle of the day, sunlight penetrates into the gorge creating incredible golden hues.
The park is open only between April and December (weather permitting). Check with the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions Kununurra office on 08 9168 4200 for the current weather forecast and road conditions before entering the park.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 491 m
Min elevation: 303 m
Total climbing: 192 m
Total descent: -192 m
Getting there
Access to the park by road is via Spring Creek Track, from the Great Northern Highway approximately 250 km south of Kununurra, to the track's end at the Purnululu National Park Visitor Centre. The track is 53 km long and is usable only in the dry season (April 1 to December 31), and only by four-wheel-drive (4WD) high clearance vehicles and off-road trailers. Safely navigating it takes approximately three hours. From the Purnululu National Park Visitor Centre.
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
The Bungle Bungle Range in Purnululu National Park is one of the most striking geological landmarks in Western Australia, offering a remote wilderness experience. Purnululu attracts visitors for a whole range of reasons; the sheer grandeur of the sandstone massif, watching it change to a golden colour late in the day, walking through some of the marvellous gorges and for the really well-prepared, a walk along Piccaninny Creek for an overnight camping experience.
Other walks include the Echidna Chasm Trail, Mini Palms Walk, the walk to Kungkalanayi Lookout, Cathedral Gorge, the Domes Walk, Homestead Gorge, Piccaninny Creek Lookout, Whip Snake Gorge and the Northern Escarpment Walk.
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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
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.