Walking Among Ancient Sandstone at Mirima National Park
Just minutes from Kununurra in Western Australia, Mirima National Park is a striking landscape of layered sandstone formations, shaped over hundreds of millions of years. Sometimes described as a smaller version of the famous Bungle Bungle Range, the park offers a chance to explore ancient geology, vibrant plant life, and the rich cultural heritage of the Miriwoong people—all within easy reach of town. Located in the East Kimberley, Mirima sits approximately 3,200 kilometres from Perth, making it one of the most accessible national parks in the region.
Mirima National Park covers 2,068 hectares and is home to a network of short walk trails that showcase its remarkable natural features. As you follow the paths, you’ll weave through narrow rock passages, climb to scenic lookouts, and encounter the rugged beauty of the Kimberley landscape. The park is a favourite for bushwalking, photography, and nature watching, with ever-changing light transforming the sandstone throughout the day. For the best experience, head out early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the sun casts a warm glow across the rock faces.
More than 300 million years ago, this area was submerged beneath an ancient sea. Over time, layers of sediment built up, forming the distinctive banded sandstone seen today. Despite the Kimberley’s intense wet season, these formations have endured, thanks to a protective layer of algae and lichen that slows erosion. The result is a landscape that feels frozen in time, with jagged rock faces and crumbling ridges telling the story of a prehistoric world.
For the Miriwoong people, this land has been a place of shelter, ceremony, and resource gathering for thousands of years. The rock formations provided protection from the elements, while the surrounding vegetation supported a variety of native bush foods and medicinal plants. Even today, special sites within the park continue to hold cultural importance, making Mirima a place of deep connection between the past and present.
Wildlife thrives in this rocky environment, so keep an eye out for agile wallabies, dingoes, and a colourful array of birdlife. You might spot crimson finches flitting through the scrub or catch a glimpse of the elusive white-quilled rock pigeon. If you enjoy birdwatching, bring binoculars—there’s plenty to see.
With its proximity to Kununurra, Mirima National Park is a fantastic option for a short but rewarding bushwalk. Whether you’re looking for an adventurous hike, a casual walk, or a family-friendly outing, the park offers a chance to experience the rugged beauty of the Kimberley without venturing too far from town.
Want to find the best trails in Mirima 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.
