Trail Fast Facts
Manngarre Rainforest Walk is a 1.9km, grade 2 track in Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory. The walk typically takes 1 hour to complete.
Hike Overview
Nestled beside the East Alligator River in Kakadu National Park, the Manngarre Rainforest Walk offers a trio of interconnected loops, perfect for families, time-conscious explorers, or those seeking refuge from the midday sun. These easy Grade 2 trails, totalling 1.9 kilometres, can be completed in roughly one hour.
The convenient location, close to Manbiyarra (Border Store), Cahills Crossing viewing platform, Merl campground, and a short drive from Ubirr, makes this walk a perfect stop for various itineraries. Stroll beneath the cool, shady canopy of the monsoon rainforest and discover the diverse wildlife that calls this area home. Look out for fascinating creatures like flying foxes, spectacular golden orb spiders, orange-footed scrub fowl, and the vibrantly coloured rainbow pitta.
A highlight of the walk is the vantage point overlooking the East Alligator River. Keep your eyes peeled – this is a prime location for croc-spotting, allowing you to observe these prehistoric predators in their natural habitat.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 16 m
Min elevation: 12 m
Total climbing: 15 m
Total descent: -15 m
Getting there
Reaching the Manngarre Rainforest Walk is convenient for those exploring Kakadu National Park. Situated near the East Alligator River, the trailhead is accessible by car. If you're travelling south on the Kakadu Highway from Darwin, follow signs towards Jabiru. Shortly before Jabiru, you'll see the turnoff for Cahill's Crossing. Take this turnoff and continue for a short distance until you see signs for the Manngarre Rainforest Walk and car park on your left. Remember, a Kakadu National Park pass is required for entry. These can be purchased online in advance or at park entry points.
Photo gallery
Main image: Kakadu Tourism
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Track Grade
Grade 2 (Easy) -Â A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.
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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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.
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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.