Ginger’s Hill Walk is a 400-metre, grade 2 hike in Keep River National Park, Northern Territory. The walk leads to a traditional hawk-hunting hide, constructed by a local Miriwoong elder. This hide utilised the hunting behaviour of hawks and other birds of prey. Aboriginal hunters would sit in the hide and light a small fire. As the smoke rose, it attracted birds. Using a decoy, hunters would lure hawks to land within their reach. When a bird landed, it was quickly grabbed, pulled in, and killed.
Camping
Keep River National Park offers two designated camping areas to choose from: Goorrandalng and Jarnem. Goorrandalng provides a closer base camp, situated just 18 kilometers from the park entrance. Jarnem, on the other hand, offers a slightly more remote experience at 32 kilometers in. Whichever you choose, you'll have access to basic amenities like picnic tables, wood-fired barbecues, and composting or pit toilets.
Keep in mind that camping fees apply, so be sure to book your campsite online before arrival to secure your spot. While limited drinking water is available at Jarnem and near the Ranger Station turnoff, it's always wise to bring plenty of your own for the duration of your stay.
- Keep River National Park is on the traditional lands of the Miriwoong and Gajirrabeng people.
- This park requires visitors to the NT to have a parks pass.
- There are saltwater crocodiles in all waterways in the Keep River National Park. Do not swim and Be Crocwise at all times.
- Camping is available at Keep River National Park. You must book online and pay a fee to camp.
- A campground host site is open during peak season (May to September).
- Overnight walks are permitted only under prior arrangement with the Ranger staff. A permit is required.
Total distance: 390 m
Max elevation: 94 m
Min elevation: 82 m
Total climbing: 21 m
Total descent: -21 m
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The route can be accessed from the Keep River Access Road, with the nearest town being Kununurra.
Keep River National Park is approximately 468 kilometers from Katherine, Northern Territory. This hidden gem sits right on the border between the Northern Territory and Western Australia. Accessing the park is straightforward; simply follow the Victoria Highway through Timber Creek, Northern Territory. The park entrance itself is conveniently located just 3 kilometers east of the border with Western Australia.
Keep in mind that the roads leading to the park's main attractions are made of gravel and suitable for 2WD vehicles. However, these roads can be corrugated, so be prepared for a bumpy ride. Additionally, during the wet season between November and April, heavy rains can sometimes cause road closures due to flooding. It's a good idea to check road conditions before you embark on your adventure.
If you're planning to tackle the Goorrandalng Walk, your starting point will be Jarnem Campground. This campground is located conveniently within the park, just 32 kilometers from the entrance. Here, you can set up camp and prepare for your exciting journey through Keep River National Park.
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Grade 2 (Easy) - A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the
AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.
Keep River National Park in the Northern Territory is a hidden gem featuring geological wonders and ancient Aboriginal rock art. This small park offers diverse landscapes, including sandstone ridges and formations resembling the Bungle Bungles.
The Goorrandalng Walk, a two-kilometre trail, winds through sandstone and provides stunning views. The Jarnem Loop Walk, which can be split into shorter return walks, is particularly beautiful in the soft light of early morning and late afternoon.
Two campsites with wood barbecues and water are available, but camping fees must be booked online in advance due to the lack of phone signal. The park lies within the traditional lands of the Miriwoong and Gajirrabeng people, and visitors can see rock art at Langgerrbi (Nigli Gap) and Ginger's Hill.
Keep River National Park, 468 km from Katherine, borders Western Australia and showcases Aboriginal sites, spectacular geology, and various habitats. Six diverse walks allow visitors to explore the park's natural and cultural wonders, with Ginger’s Hill and Goorrandalng being the most popular for those with limited time. Sandstone habitats host species like the Short-eared Rock-wallaby, White-quilled Rockpigeon, and Sandstone Shrike-thrush.
The best time to visit is from May to August, with temperatures ranging between 10°C and 35°C. Warmer and wetter months from November to April transform the wetlands and woodlands, offering a quieter camping experience. Visitors to the NT must have a parks pass.
Be cautious of saltwater crocodiles in all waterways and observe all warning signs. Camping facilities at Goorrandalng and Jarnem include tables, wood-fired barbecues, and composting toilets. Drinking water is limited at Jarnem and near the Ranger Station turnoff. A campground host site is open during peak season (May to September).
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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
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.
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
