Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Explore the unique 'beehive' domes on the Domes walk, a moderate 1.5km return hike in Purnululu National Park. This short, scenic trail, perfect for casual hikers, showcases remarkable geological formations with distinct grey and red layers. The trek culminates in a mini amphitheatre, featuring rare honeycomb-like structures and a waterfall pool, best visited during Australia's winter months (May-October). A must-visit for every outdoor enthusiast!

Length:

1.5km

Duration:

1 hr

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 312m

Min elevation: 255m

Total Ascent: 67m

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

Map

Gallery

Weather

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Region

6,770 views

Important info

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 Domes walk is a short hike packed with the famous beehive' domes. The trail is ideal for people who are not into hiking but want to get an insight into this unique landscape.

The Domes walk features some great examples of geological erosive forces creating unique beehive' outcrops. The classic layers are made up of clay-like bands that support a type of cyanobacteria that creates that distinctive grey colour. The red bands are caused by oxidation of iron in the incredibly fragile sandstone.

The trail ends at a water smooth mini amphitheatre where a wet-season waterfall plummets into a pool below. The rock walls feature curious honeycomb-like structures, a product of water erosion. It would be a spectacular sight but rarely witnessed by humans. Purnululu National Park is only opened in the dry season or Australia's winter months - May to October.

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

Trail features

Gallery

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Walk map and GPX file
The Domes Walk (1.5km)

Total distance: 1521 m
Max elevation: 312 m
Min elevation: 255 m
Total climbing: 67 m
Total descent: -67 m

Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: 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

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

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 walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Purnululu National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty 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
The Domes Walk (1.5km)

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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

Hike at a Glance

Important info

Hike overview

Trail features

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
The Domes Walk (1.5km)