Explore stunning hiking trails of Judbarra – Gregory National Park

Discover the Trails of Judburra Gregory National Park: A Hiker’s Paradise

Judburra Gregory National Park, the second largest park in the Northern Territory, offers a remarkable experience for those keen on bushwalks, hikes, and exploring trails. Located near Timber Creek and approximately 360 kilometres from Darwin, this park provides a stunning display of the transition between the Territory’s tropical and semi-arid regions.

The park features lofty gorges, vast escarpment country, and fascinating sandstone formations. Visitors can wander through monsoon rainforest and eucalyptus woodlands interspersed with yellow Spinifex. The distinctive Boab tree, prominent in this limestone landscape, signals the proximity to Western Australia.

For those who enjoy walking, the Escarpment Walk is an easy trail offering spectacular views of the Victoria River and the escarpment, along with informative signs about the Nungali and Wardaman people. The more challenging Nawulbinbin (Joe Creek) Loop Walk passes Aboriginal paintings and ascends a steep rocky slope to the escarpment wall.

Limestone Gorge is a postcard-like area with interesting craters and dolomite formations. Bullita Homestead, preserved in its original condition, tells the story of early settlers and their struggles, with stockyards maintained using local lancewood and bloodwood timber.

The Victoria River District is known for its large barramundi, saltwater crocodiles, expansive landscapes, and challenging 4WD tracks. In the western part of the park, Gregory’s Tree, a large Boab carved with dates by explorer Augustus Gregory during his 1885 expedition, stands as a registered heritage site with interpretive signs at its base.

Visitors should be aware that saltwater crocodiles inhabit all waterways in Judburra Gregory National Park, and swimming is not advised. The park is culturally significant to the traditional owners, encompassing lands of several Aboriginal language groups who continue to use the area for ceremonies and rituals. Numerous archaeological sites and rock shelters exhibit a wealth of rock art, with human figure motifs being the most common, making it one of the largest sites in Australia.

The park requires a parks pass for entry, with NT residents exempt. It can be accessed via the Victoria Highway from Katherine and Kununurra, or via the unsealed Buntine and Buchanan highways. There are several 4WD tracks available during the dry season. Visitors should check road conditions, especially between December and April, by contacting the Parks and Wildlife office or the NT Road Report website.

The most comfortable months to visit are from May to August, when temperatures range between 10°C and 35°C.

Want to find the best trails in Judburra Gregory National Park for an adventurous hike, casual walk, or a family trip? Trail Hiking Australia has the best trails for walking, hiking, running, and more.