Trail Fast Facts
Kubara Pools Walk is a 6km, grade 3 track in Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory. The walk typically takes 3-4 hours to complete.
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.
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.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 54 m
Min elevation: 35 m
Total climbing: 82 m
Total descent: -82 m
Trailhead
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Photo gallery
Main image: Kakadu Tourism
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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.