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.
- 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
Download file:
Murchison-River-Loop-Walk.gpx
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’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.
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.
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.
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
Looking for things to do in Kalbarri National Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
Favourite
Favourite
Favourite
Kennedy Range National Park
Favourite
Kennedy Range National Park
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.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe
1 Review on “Murchison River Loop Walk (9km)”
This walk offers a unique experience, particularly for those interested in geology (which I know nothing about). The striking red and white banded rocks that line the river gorge are fascinating, and the overhanging rock layers show interesting signs of being shaped by plant roots over time. There are some excellent lookout points along the trail, with shaded seating areas where you can take a break and enjoy the view. The walk is well-maintained, with trails accessible from the parking area.