Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Experience a serene journey in Australia's Kakadu National Park with the Kubara Pools Walk, a scenic 6km loop trail rated Grade 3. Perfect for a moderate day hike, you'll traverse through captivating savanna woodlands, towering sandstone formations and lush monsoon rainforests. Remember to pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the tranquillity of the Kubara Pools, keep an eye out for vibrant wildlife like wallabies and azure kingfishers, and immerse yourself in the unique beauty of Kakadu.

Length:

6km

Duration:

3-4 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 54m

Min elevation: 35m

Total Ascent: 82m

Start: Kubara Pools Carpark

End: Kubara Pools Carpark

Kakadu National Park

Northern Territory

Nearby town: Jabiru

From state capital: 350km

Latitude: -12.837044200184245

Longitude: 132.8582669128283

Overview

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Region

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Hike overview

Unwind amidst the beauty of Kakadu National Park on the Kubara Pools Walk, a scenic 6-kilometre loop trail (Grade 3) suitable for most fitness levels. This delightful journey, typically lasting 3-4 hours, can be enjoyed year-round, showcasing the ever-changing landscapes of Kakadu.

The trail winds through a captivating tapestry of ecosystems. Traverse savanna woodlands, towering sandstone formations, and pockets of lush monsoon rainforest. Each season brings a unique floral display. During the tropical wet season, vibrant lilies and orchids come alive. The early dry season transforms the landscape with a burst of colour from eucalypts, grevilleas, and swamp bloodwoods, their hues ranging from yellow to crimson red.

While accessible throughout the year, the Kubara Pools Walk reaches peak popularity during the wet season. Pack a picnic lunch and extend your walk into a memorable day trip, immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of Kakadu. Keep your eyes peeled for animal tracks in the sand, a testament to the region's diverse wildlife. You might even spot dingos, wallabies, or lizards as you make your way towards the main creek.

Upon reaching your destination, a haven of tranquility awaits. Escape the midday heat and soak in the idyllic setting of the Kubara Pools. The sound of cascading water over boulders and the gentle shimmer of sunlight on the rippling surface create a truly peaceful ambience.

This serene environment might welcome you with the vibrant colours of a rainbow pitta or offer a glimpse of a banded fruit-dove. Look out for an azure kingfisher diving for prey, or perhaps a Mertens water monitor basking on the rocks. Breathe in the fresh air, listen to the symphony of nature, and reconnect with the beauty of Kakadu National Park.

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Main image: Kakadu Tourism

Walk map and GPX file

Kubara Pools Walk (6km)

Total distance: 6078 m
Max elevation: 54 m
Min elevation: 35 m
Total climbing: 82 m
Total descent: -82 m

Getting there

Closest towns to this walk: Adelaide River, Arnhem Land, Batchelor, Cooinda, Darwin, Gunbalanya, Humpty Doo, Jabiru, Kakadu Village, Katherine, Maningrida, Mary River, Nourlangie, Pine Creek

Getting to the trailhead in Kakadu National Park.

Get there with Google Maps

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.

Similar trails nearby

Looking for hikes and trails in Kakadu National Park or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.

Track grade

Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.

Explore safe

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.

Packing checklists

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.

Let someone know

Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure

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Kubara Pools Walk (6km)

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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.

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file

Kubara Pools Walk (6km)