Trail Fast Facts
Meanarra Hill Lookout walk is a 500m, grade 2 walk in Kalbarri National Park, Western Australia. The short return walk typically takes 30 minutes to complete.
Hike Overview
Kalbarri National Park offers breathtaking vistas, and the Meanarra Hill Lookout provides a fantastic opportunity to experience them firsthand. This easily accessible walk caters to visitors of all abilities.
The Meanarra Hill Lookout walk is a short and manageable 500-meter return trail, classified as grade 2. Despite its modest length, the reward is a truly panoramic experience. The trail typically takes only about 30 minutes to complete, making it perfect for a quick escape into nature or a photography session.
Standing at an impressive 207 meters above sea level, Meanarra Hill offers a stunning 360-degree perspective. From this vantage point, you can take in the charming town of Kalbarri, the mighty Murchison River as it snakes its way towards the Indian Ocean, and the vast expanse of Kalbarri National Park itself. This makes it an ideal spot to capture unforgettable photos, especially at sunset when the sky is ablaze with color.
The Meanarra Hill Lookout trail leads to designated lookout areas and a convenient shade shelter for visitor comfort. Additionally, interpretive signage is thoughtfully positioned along the trail, inviting you to discover the fascinating connections between the landscape and the people who have called this region home for generations.
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.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 199 m
Min elevation: 189 m
Total climbing: 12 m
Total descent: -12 m
Trail Location (trailhead)
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Getting there
The Meanarra Hill Lookout trailhead is conveniently located at the designated Meanarra Hill Lookout carpark. This carpark is situated just 5 kilometers east of the Kalbarri townsite. If you're driving from Perth, the distance is approximately 570 kilometers north. The roads leading to Kalbarri National Park are all sealed, making for a comfortable journey. Once you arrive at the carpark, you can easily begin your short and rewarding walk to the lookout.
Photo gallery
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.
About the region
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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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.
Let someone know
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.
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
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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.