Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Experience the breathtaking Northern Escarpment Trail, a moderate 7.5km return hike nestled between Echidna Chasm and Bloodwoods carparks. This trail delights with flat terrain, captivating views of the Escarpment, and striking landmarks like the Mini Palms Gorge. Close to the main town, it's perfect for bushwalkers seeking a unique adventure filled with quintessential Australian landscapes. Don't forget to stop at the Homestead Valley Trail for an added exploration bonus.

Length:

7.5km

Duration:

2.5 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 305m

Min elevation: 273m

Total Ascent: 166m

Start: Bloodwood carpark

End: Bloodwood carpark

Purnululu National Park

Western Australia

Nearby town: Halls Creek

From state capital: 2,890km

Latitude: -17.33479029

Longitude: 128.38439582294382

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Safety advice

Temperatures within the park and on the walk trails can reach 40°C (104°F) and radiant heat can increase the temperature to over 50°C (122°F).¯ As a minimum carry and drink 1 litre of water per hour of walking, per person, even in the winter months.

Hike overview

The Northern Escarpment Trail links the Echidna Chasm and Bloodwoods carkparks, taking a route along the base of the escarpment. The trail between the two carparks is 3.75 kilometres along reasonably flat surfaces. The return hike is 7.5km.

The Northern Escarpment Trail provides you with an opportunity to explore the Escarpment, Echidna Chasm, Mini Palms Trail and Homestead Valley Trail (Homestead Gorge) from one trail head by parking at either Bloodwoods carkpark or Echidna Chasm carpark.

The Mini Palms Trail turnoff to Mini Palms Gorge turnoff is approximately 1km from the Bloodwoods carpark and 2.6kms from the Echidna Chasm carpark

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Walk map and GPX file

Northern Escarpment Trail Walk (7.5km)

Total distance: 7478 m
Max elevation: 305 m
Min elevation: 273 m
Total climbing: 166 m
Total descent: -166 m

Getting there

Closest towns to this walk: Balgo, Billiluna, Fitzroy Crossing, Halls Creek, Kununurra, Marble Bar, Turkey Creek, Warmun, Wyndham

Getting to the trailhead in Purnululu National Park.

The Bloodwoods is one of the starting points for Mini Palms Trail, Homestead Valley Trail, and the southern end of the Escarpment Trail. There are toilets, shaded picnic areas and the Bloodwoods Lookout. Bloodwoods parking area is 19km from the visitor centre. The Bloodwoods car park is located within the Purnululu National Park, approximately 230km (3 hours) south of Kununurra and 2,890km (30 hours) north of Perth.

Access to the park by road is via Spring Creek Track, from the Great Northern Highway approximately 250 km south of Kununurra, to the track’s end at the Purnululu National Park Visitor Centre. The track is 53 km long and is usable only in the dry season (April 1 to December 31), and only by four-wheel-drive (4WD) high clearance vehicles and off-road trailers. Safely navigating it takes approximately three hours. From the Purnululu National Park Visitor Centre, the road T-junctions at Gorge Road from where you can head either into the northern section, anchored by Echidna Chasm, or the southern section, with Piccaninny and Cathedral gorges.

Get there with Google Maps

About the region

The Bungle Bungle Range in Purnululu National Park is one of the most striking geological landmarks in Western Australia, offering a remote wilderness experience. Purnululu attracts visitors for a whole range of reasons; the sheer grandeur of the sandstone massif, watching it change to a golden colour late in the day, walking through some of the marvellous gorges and for the really well-prepared, a walk along Piccaninny Creek for an overnight camping experience.

Other walks include the Echidna Chasm Trail, Mini Palms Gorge Trail, the walk to Kungkalanayi Lookout, Cathedral Gorge, the Domes Walk, Homestead Valley Trail, Piccaninny Creek Lookout, Whip Snake Gorge and the Northern Escarpment Trail.

Similar trails nearby

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

Track grade

Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.

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

Northern Escarpment Trail Walk (7.5km)

8 Reviews on “Northern Escarpment Trail Walk (7.5km)”

Overall rating

Mel White

Kara next year !!!!!!

06/07/2024, 09:19

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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

Safety advice

Hike overview

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file

Northern Escarpment Trail Walk (7.5km)