Due to the extreme summer heat, it's crucial to plan your Loop Walk hike for the cooler months, ideally between May and October. The trail is actually closed after 7:00 AM from November to March to ensure visitor safety.
The Murchison River Loop Walk in Kalbarri National Park offers a challenging and rewarding 9-kilometer journey, classified as grade 4. This trail is best tackled during the cooler months (May to October) as summer temperatures within the gorge can soar to a scorching 50°C.
The Loop Trail takes you on a captivating exploration of the Murchison River's immense erosive power. Witness firsthand how the river has carved magnificent gorges, revealing stunning red and white banded rock formations.
Prepare for a challenging yet breathtaking hike. The trail follows the cliff's edge, offering magnificent views of the river below before making its descent down to the riverside. As you continue your journey along the riverbank, you'll encounter sandy beaches, towering river red gums, and refreshing swimming opportunities (during permitted seasons).
The trail then takes you on a loop along the river before gradually climbing back out of the gorge, leading you back to the iconic Natures Window and ultimately, the car park.
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.
- Always carry and consume at least 1 liter of water per person, per hour of hiking. Increase water intake during hotter weather conditions. Remember, there's no potable water available within the park, so plan accordingly.
- Pack a hat and wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing to shield yourself from the sun. Sunscreen is essential – reapply frequently throughout your hike.
- Select sturdy footwear with good ankle support for navigating the uneven terrain.
- Avoid hiking alone! Always venture out with a companion and inform someone of your planned route and estimated return time.
- Mobile phone coverage is limited in the park. Consider carrying a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) or a satellite phone for emergency situations. These devices can be lifesavers in remote locations.
Total distance: 9205 m
Max elevation: 118 m
Min elevation: 36 m
Total climbing: 290 m
Total descent: -290 m
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The starting point for the Loop Walk is conveniently located at the Natures Window car park within Kalbarri National Park. This location is approximately 590 kilometers north of Perth, translating to a 7.5-hour drive.
If you have any photos from this hike and are happy to share them, please upload your .jpg files here.
Please note: Uploading photos does not transfer ownership of copyright away from you. If requested, you will be credited for any photos you provide and can ask they be deleted at any time.
Kalbarri National Park pays respect to the Nanda people as the traditional custodians of this land. The park itself encompasses the lower Murchison River, where the river has carved a magnificent 80km gorge through red and white banded sandstone. A breathtaking perspective of this natural wonder can be obtained from the Kalbarri Skywalk, a dual-platform structure jutting out over the gorge. Numerous walking trails descend into the gorge, allowing visitors to experience its colorful splendor firsthand.
The park also boasts an impressive coastline sculpted by wind and wave erosion. Here, towering cliffs plunge 100 meters towards the ocean, offering equally stunning vistas. Particularly during spring, the wildflowers blanketing the landscape add another layer of vibrant beauty.
The town of Kalbarri, situated at the mouth of the Murchison River, serves as a vibrant hub for both fishing and tourism. This town provides a convenient base for exploring the park's many offerings. Activities range from sightseeing and picnicking to more adventurous pursuits like abseiling, rafting, and canoeing. Don't forget to book tours in advance for these activities to ensure a spot.
With so much to see and do, allow ample time to fully experience Kalbarri National Park. For panoramic vistas of Murchison Gorge, be sure to venture out onto the Kalbarri Skywalk. It's important to note that summer temperatures can be extreme. To ensure a safe and enjoyable visit, plan hikes during the cooler months (May to October). When embarking on hikes, prioritize safety: start early in the morning, carry sufficient water (1 liter per hour per person), wear sun protection, comfortable clothing, and sturdy footwear. As there's no potable water available within the park, remember to bring your own supply.
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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.
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
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
Trail changed? New features discovered? Has the route changed? Trail permanently closed? Help fellow hikers by suggesting edits! Click above to update route descriptions, GPX file, trail features (like boardwalks), or access conditions (like parking availability). Help me keep the trails info fresh!
