Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Explore the lush scenery of Kakadu National Park with the Manngarre Rainforest Walk, a 1.9km easy Grade 2 circuit nestled by the East Alligator River. This family-friendly trail, close to Ubirr and Merl campground, offers an hour of adventure beneath a shady canopy, home to diverse wildlife including flying foxes and colourful rainbow pittas. Don't miss the vantage point for croc-spotting along the river, a highlight of this delightful bushwalk.

Length:

1.9km

Duration:

1 hr

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 16m

Min elevation: 12m

Total Ascent: 15m

Start: Boat Ramp Carpark

End: Boat Ramp Carpark

Kakadu National Park

Northern Territory

Nearby town: Gunbalanya

From state capital: 286km

Latitude: -12.425195556818155

Longitude: 132.96447968159305

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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.

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Main image: Kakadu Tourism

Walk map and GPX file

Manngarre Rainforest Walk (1.9km)

Total distance: 1896 m
Max elevation: 16 m
Min elevation: 12 m
Total climbing: 15 m
Total descent: -15 m

Getting there

Closest towns to this walk: Adelaide River, Arnhem Land, Batchelor, Cooinda, Darwin, Gunbalanya, Humpty Doo, Jabiru, Kakadu Village, Katherine, Maningrida, Mary River, Nourlangie, Pine Creek

Getting to the trailhead in Kakadu National Park.

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.

Get there with Google Maps

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.

Similar trails nearby

Looking for hikes and trails in Kakadu National Park or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.

Track grade

Grade 2 (Easy) - 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.

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.

Let someone know

Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure

Reviews

Manngarre Rainforest Walk (1.9km)

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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.

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file

Manngarre Rainforest Walk (1.9km)