Trail Fast Facts
Jim Jim Falls Walk is a 2.8km, grade 4 hike in Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory. The walk typically takes 2-3 hours to complete.
Hike Overview
Witness the awe-inspiring Jim Jim Falls in Kakadu National Park on this challenging 2.8-kilometre return hike (Grade 4). The walk typically takes 2-3 hours to complete and is best suited for experienced walkers due to uneven terrain and some rock scrambling.
This iconic location transforms throughout the year. During the dry season (typically May to October), the thunderous falls recede, revealing the heart of the gorge. Hikers can then venture down to the base of the 200-metre cliffs and cool off in the deep natural pool. The trail winds through lush monsoon forest and over boulders, offering a glimpse into this unique ecosystem.
However, during the tropical summer months, the falls come alive with cascading water. While inaccessible by foot during this period, scenic flights provide a breathtaking aerial view of Jim Jim Falls in full flow.
The walk offers a chance to encounter ancient wonders. The towering anbinik trees lining the path are some of the largest and oldest living vegetation on Earth, with some specimens dating back over 400 million years. Providing cooling shade, this dense canopy shelters a variety of birdlife. Look out for the white-lined honeyeaters and the striated pardalote flitting amongst the leaves. You might even spot a rainbow pitta in the undergrowth or a peregrine falcon soaring overhead. Keep an eye out for Mertens water monitors basking on the rocks after a successful hunt in the clear waters of Jim Jim Creek.
The name "Jim Jim" itself reflects the area's Aboriginal heritage, derived from "andjimdjim," the local term for the water pandanus plants that line the creek.
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.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 227 m
Min elevation: 46 m
Total climbing: 338 m
Total descent: -338 m
Trailhead
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Getting there
Reaching the Jim Jim Falls trailhead requires careful preparation and a suitable vehicle. Due to the rough, unsealed road conditions, only high clearance four-wheel drive vehicles are permitted to access the area from May to October (dry season). The 50-kilometre journey from Kakadu Highway to the trailhead can be challenging, with corrugations and a narrow, winding track. Trailers are strictly prohibited due to limited space.
Be aware of a potentially deep creek crossing (over 0.4 metres) with a concrete base. A snorkel for your vehicle is highly recommended to ensure safe passage. Always check the latest road conditions before setting off, either online at https://parksaustralia.gov.au/kakadu/access/ or by calling the Bowali Visitor Centre on 08 8938 1120.
Photo gallery
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
About the region
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.
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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.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Weather
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.