Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Explore the 24km Smitt Rock walk in Nitmiluk, a Grade 4 (Hard) hike with stunning gorge views and seasonal swimming at Dunlop Swamp and Smitt Rock. Starting from Nitmiluk Visitor Centre, this return-style hike follows the Yambi Walk and Gurumal Trail, with the option to camp overnight at Smitt Rock campground or extend your journey via Lily Pond Falls, Butterfly Gorge, Jeddas Rock or Pat's Lookout. A must-do for dedicated bushwalkers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Length:

24km

Duration:

8.5 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 230m

Min elevation: 122m

Total Ascent: 485m

Start: Nitmiluk Visitor Centre

End: Nitmiluk Visitor Centre

Nitmiluk National Park

Northern Territory

Nearby town: Katherine

From state capital: 345km

Latitude: -14.31567605

Longitude: 132.4209782480275

Overview

Map

Gallery

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Region

Weather

3,806 views

Important info

Temperatures across the Northern Territory can be very hot between October and April. It can exceed 40 degrees Celsius in some locations. High humidity in the Top End can also make you tire easily. Check forecast temperatures before you visit. Find out how to prepare and stay safe in the heat.

Hike overview

The Smitt Rock walk commences at the Nitmiluk Visitor Centre and follows the Yambi Walk and Gurumal Trail to Smitt Rock. This hike allows for seasonal swimming below Dunlop Swamp and at Smitt Rock and provides stunning gorge views.

This hike can be completed as a day hike or you can camp overnight at the Smitt Rock campground. This is a return hike so you would retrace your steps to return to the Visitor Centre or you could extend the return journey by walking via Lily Pond Falls, Butterfly Gorge, Jeddas Rock or Pat's Lookout.

Photo: Shane Bartie

Tips

It can be extremely hot between September and April. Temperatures on the escarpment are often 10o C hotter than near the river. Walk in the cool of the day and drink plenty of water. Check at the Nitmiluk Centre for the availability of drinking water. Water tanks and river at designated campsites. Boil river water before use.

Trail features

Track grade

Grade 4 (Hard) - Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.

Walk map and GPX file
Smitt Rock Hike (24km)

Total distance: 23727 m
Max elevation: 230 m
Min elevation: 122 m
Total climbing: 485 m
Total descent: -485 m

Gallery

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Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Nitmiluk National Park.

The network of trails begin near the Nitmiluk Visitor Centre. The park’s main entrance is located 30 kilometres northeast of Katherine via a sealed road. Keep a watch out for the many Wallabies a small Kangaroo that are inquisitive of visitors and haven’t yet learned the road rules. Katherine is approximately 320 kilometres southeast of the Northern Territory’s capital, Darwin.

Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.

Get there with Google Maps

About the region

Be drawn to the spectacular sandstone country of Nitmiluk National Park and the majestic Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge with spectacular cliffs that glow in the changing light. Nitmiluk National Park, just 30 kilometres north-east of Katherine, covers a vast area, including 13 impressive gorges carved from the ancient sandstone country which stretch for as far as the eye can see. Explore the world-famous park and gorge country on foot, by canoe, boat or helicopter. Accommodation is available within the National Park. Choose from camping, to chalets through to the upmarket Cicada Lodge. Nitmiluk National Park has something for everyone.

Find a place to stay

Find Accommodation

Wondering where to stay near this hike? Find accommodation close to the trailhead — hotels, cabins and campgrounds nearby. Click the button to view the interactive map.

Closest towns to this walk: Adelaide River, Barunga, Beswick, Daly Waters, Edith Falls, Jabiru, Jilkminggan, Katherine, Larrimah, Leliyn, Mataranka, Pine Creek

Let someone know

Heading out? Fill in a trip intentions form so someone knows your plans. If things go wrong, they can raise the alarm fast, giving you peace of mind on the trail.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Nitmiluk National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

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.

Reviews
Smitt Rock Hike (24km)

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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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025