Enjoy an exhilarating adventure with the Jarnem Lookout Walk, a 6.5-kilometer loop trail in Keep River National Park. This moderate-to-difficult (grade 4) hike, starting at Jarnem Campground (32 kilometers from the park entrance), demands approximately 3 hours of your time and rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views.
The journey begins with a meander through an open field from the campground. Take a right turn at the Langgerrbi (Nigli Gap) intersection, and soon you'll find yourself following the trail along the base of the escarpment. Brace yourself for a challenging ascent as the path steeply climbs a natural creek bed to a saddle. Here, track markers will guide you towards the lookout, where you'll be mesmerised by a stunning view encompassing the Keep River floodplain, the Jarnem Escarpment, and the Miriwoong dreaming trail.
After soaking in the panoramic view, descend the hill and traverse another open plain. As you approach a remarkable set of Bungle Bungle-like rock formations, the vegetation transforms. Towering striped sandstone pillars dominate the landscape, further enhanced by the presence of lush palms and pandanus trees. The trail then winds around these impressive geological wonders before connecting back to the beginning of the loop. Finally, retrace your steps through the open field to return to Jarnem Campground.
Image: Rr2000 - Own work, CC BY 3.0, Link
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.
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.
Total distance: 6562 m
Max elevation: 95 m
Min elevation: 42 m
Total climbing: 106 m
Total descent: -106 m
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Getting to the trailhead: Keep River National Park.
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 Jarnem Lookout 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.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
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).
Wondering where to stay near this hike? Find accommodation close to the trailhead — hotels, cabins and campgrounds nearby. Click the button to view the interactive map.
Closest towns to this walk: Delamere, Gregory, Katherine, Kununurra, Timber Creek
Heading out? Fill in a trip intentions form so someone knows your plans. If things go wrong, they can raise the alarm fast, giving you peace of mind on the trail.
Looking for more walks in or near Keep River National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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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.
