The Jarrangbarnmi Walk, also known as the Koolpin Gorge Walk, offers an unforgettable Kakadu experience. This 4-kilometre return trail (Grade 4) winds through a stunning gorge in the park's southern region. The walk typically takes around 2 hours to complete.
Hikers can choose between a short amble to the captivating plunge pools and waterfalls at the gorge's entrance or venture further upstream (approximately 2 kilometres) for a more immersive experience. A bushwalking permit is not required for the shorter section, making it accessible to a wider range of visitors.
Jarrangbarnmi is a place of both rugged beauty and ecological significance. Lush greenery climbs the towering cliffs, creating a dramatic backdrop for your exploration. The gorge is also home to rare species such as the hooded parrot, which nests in termite mounds, and the vibrantly coloured Gouldian finch. Keep your eyes peeled for the barrk, or black wallaroo, as well.
It's important to remember that saltwater crocodiles inhabit the creek near the campground and vegetation pool. Swimming and collecting water in these areas is strictly prohibited. Always adhere to signage and permit conditions to ensure your safety and the health of the environment.
Jarrangbarnmi holds cultural significance for the Jawoyn people, with its name reflecting their creation stories. "Jarrang" translates to "flood" or "big water flow," while "barn" means "rift" or "gap." Camping beside Koolpin Creek is permitted, but requires a permit obtained well in advance due to the area's popularity.
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: 3802 m
Max elevation: 134 m
Min elevation: 75 m
Total climbing: 210 m
Total descent: -210 m
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Before you go, complete a trip intentions form and share it with a trusted contact. Agree on a Late-Back Time and ask them to call 000 (Police) if you have not checked in. A clear trip plan is one of the simplest and most effective safety steps you can take.
Download the hiking preparation and safety checklists before leaving home to help you think through your plans. They help ensure important considerations are not overlooked and support safer decision-making on the trail.
Getting to the trailhead: Kakadu National Park.
Accessing the Jarrangbarnmi Walk requires a four-wheel drive vehicle and prior planning due to its remote location. The trailhead is situated within the Jarrangbarnmi (Koolpin Gorge) Camping Area. To get there, head south along the Kakadu Highway from Darwin for approximately 175 kilometres. Turn right onto the Arnhem Highway and continue for 89 kilometres until you reach the well-signed turnoff for Gunlom Falls. Follow this unsealed road for 26.5 kilometres, where you’ll encounter a junction. Take the left fork towards Jarrangbarnmi (Koolpin Gorge) and follow this track for a further 10 kilometres. The Jarrangbarnmi Camping Area and the trailhead for the walk will be clearly marked at the end of this track. Remember, this is a permit-only area, so ensure you have obtained your permit before setting off.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Find accommodation close to the trailhead including hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Use the interactive map to explore available options in nearby towns.
Nearby towns: 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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