Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Experience the remarkable Piccaninny Creek Lookout trail in Purnululu National Park, a moderate 3km return hike totalling 1.5 hours. Hike across the stony creek bed, admire the dramatic 'beehive' formations, and witness the powerful erosive forces of monsoonal rains. Climbing to the lookout offers rewarding views across the savannah plains and distant 'beehive' outcrops. Don't miss the chance to see spectacular water reflections in the bedrock's hollows!

Length:

3km

Duration:

1.5 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 266m

Min elevation: 247m

Total Ascent: 63m

Start: Picaninny Creek Carpark

End: Picaninny Creek Carpark

Purnululu National Park

Western Australia

Nearby town: Halls Creek

From state capital: 2,900km

Latitude: -17.4892391

Longitude: 128.37517976831367

Overview

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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 3km return trail to the Piccaninny Creek Lookout at Purnululu National Park gives you an impressive overall view. Walking to the lookout involves a reasonably easy walk negotiating the stony creek bed of Piccaninny Creek.

The water smooth rock of the creek bed provides a vivid example of the erosive forces of countless monsoonal rains and the beehive' formations provide a dramatic backdrop.

If you are lucky, hollows in the bedrock may contain water providing spectacular reflections. There is a steady climb up to the lookout where a railing provides some reassurance and safety. The views across the savannah plains to distant beehive' outcrops and ranges are spectacular.

The park is open only between April and December (weather permitting). Check with the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions Kununurra office on 08 9168 4200 for the current weather forecast and road conditions before entering the park.

Find more info about this hike at Trails WA

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Walk map and GPX file

Piccaninny Creek Lookout Walk (3km)

Total distance: 3341 m
Max elevation: 266 m
Min elevation: 247 m
Total climbing: 63 m
Total descent: -63 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.

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 trail head is then located a further 27 kilometres drive south.

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

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Piccaninny Creek Lookout Walk (3km)

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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

Trail features

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file

Piccaninny Creek Lookout Walk (3km)