Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Explore the stunning Kungkalanayi Lookout trail, a moderate 1km return hike offering 360-degree views of the Bungle Bungle Range. Just 2.5km from the visitor centre, this hike will immerse you in the vibrant colours of the range at sunset and sunrise. With spinifex-covered limestone ridges and several seating spots at the top, it's a must-visit for all outdoor enthusiasts. Don't forget to capture the changing hues of the landscape, from brilliant reds to golden tones.

Length:

1km

Duration:

30 mins

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 308m

Min elevation: 292m

Total Ascent: 18m

Start: Kungkalanayi carpark

End: Kungkalanayi carpark

Purnululu National Park

Western Australia

Nearby town: Halls Creek

From state capital: 2,890km

Latitude: -17.41633571

Longitude: 128.30619073270083

Overview

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6,953 views

Important info

Temperatures within the park and on the walk trails can reach 40°C (104°F) and radiant heat can increase the temperature to over 50°C (122°F).¯ As a minimum carry and drink 1 litre of water per hour of walking, per person, even in the winter months.

Hike overview

An impressive lookout with 360 degree views of the surrounding land, including the western escarpment of the Bungle Bungle Range. Located 2.5km from the visitor centre, Kungkalanayi Lookout provides spectacular views of the Bungle Bungle range western face and the spinifex covered limestone ridges. At sunset, the range is a blaze of brilliant reds, oranges, and pinks against a backdrop of purple and golden hues from the evening sky.

This is a great place to orientate yourself in the park landscape and capture the changing colours of the range at sunset and sunrise. There are several seats at the top of the lookout.

Image Roxanne Pendreigh

Trail features

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.

Walk map and GPX file
Kungkalanayi Lookout Trail Walk (1km)

Total distance: 867 m
Max elevation: 308 m
Min elevation: 292 m
Total climbing: 18 m
Total descent: -18 m

Gallery

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Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Purnululu National Park.

Access to the park by road is via Spring Creek Track, from the Great Northern Highway approximately 250 km south of Kununurra, to the track’s end at the Purnululu National Park Visitor Centre. The track is 53 km long and is usable only in the dry season (April 1 to December 31), and only by four-wheel-drive (4WD) high clearance vehicles and off-road trailers. Safely navigating it takes approximately three hours. From the Purnululu National Park Visitor Centre, the trail head is then located a further 2.5 kilometres drive.

Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.

Get there with Google Maps

About the region

The Bungle Bungle Range in Purnululu National Park is one of the most striking geological landmarks in Western Australia, offering a remote wilderness experience. Purnululu attracts visitors for a whole range of reasons; the sheer grandeur of the sandstone massif, watching it change to a golden colour late in the day, walking through some of the marvellous gorges and for the really well-prepared, a walk along Piccaninny Creek for an overnight camping experience.

Other walks include the Echidna Chasm Trail, Mini Palms Gorge Trail, the walk to Kungkalanayi Lookout, Cathedral Gorge, the Domes Walk, Homestead Valley Trail, Piccaninny Creek Lookout, Whip Snake Gorge and the Northern Escarpment Trail.

Find a place to stay

Find Accommodation

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: Balgo, Billiluna, Fitzroy Crossing, Halls Creek, Kununurra, Marble Bar, Turkey Creek, Warmun, Wyndham

Let someone know

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.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Purnululu National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

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.

Reviews
Kungkalanayi Lookout Trail Walk (1km)

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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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

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