Immerse yourself in a sacred landscape at Walpa Gorge. Walpa Gorge, named for the refreshing winds ("Waḻpa" in the local language) that whistle through, is a desert refuge for plants and animals. Guarded from the hot desert sun, they find a cool haven within these walls. The 2.5km Walpa Gorge Walk, a moderate grade 3 hike in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, takes roughly an hour to complete.
Imagine entering an ancient temple carved by time itself. The rocky path leads gently uphill, following a seasonal stream. Depending on the weather, you may come across a small stream running through the landscape. Keep your eyes peeled for rare flora and end your journey at a grove of spearwood trees.
Look out for kanyaḻa, or common wallaroos, hopping amongst the domes - a sight unique to Walpa Gorge within Kata Tjuta.
Escape the crowds by visiting later in the day. As others head for the Kata Tjuta sunset, find a quiet spot and admire the gorge bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun, its colors shifting with the fading light.
Stay on designated trails to preserve this delicate ecosystem. Avoid climbing boulders or descending into gullies. Remember, Kata Tjuta holds deep cultural significance. Walpa Gorge is part of Kata Tjuṯa, a sacred men's site. To protect sacred sites, the Anangu people request that you capture the entire gorge in your photos and videos, avoiding close-ups of specific features. Filming for Commercial Purposes? A media permit is necessary for commercial or public filming.
Allow at least an hour to complete the walk and make sure you take plenty of drinking water, sturdy shoes, sunscreen, and a hat. To enter the park you'll need a park pass, which you can pre-purchase online for quick and easy entry.
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.
Total distance: 2624 m
Max elevation: 774 m
Min elevation: 599 m
Total climbing: 191 m
Total descent: -191 m
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From Yulara, drive along Uluru Road into the National Park and keep right at the fork to Kata Tjuta. Continue on for 43km then follow the sign to the Walpa Gorge carpark.
If you have any photos from this hike and are happy to share them, please upload your .jpg files here.
Please note: Uploading photos does not transfer ownership of copyright away from you. If requested, you will be credited for any photos you provide and can ask they be deleted at any time.
The ancient red rock formations of Kata Tjuta rise from the dusty land to make an incredible sight in Central Australia. Witness the spectacular rocks as they appear to change colour and immerse yourself in the Aboriginal stories of this special place, 500 million years in the making.
Kata Tjuta is a group of large, ancient rock formations about 30 kilometres (18.6 miles) away from Uluru in Australia's Red Centre. Together, these giant stone formations form the two major landmarks within the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Kata Tjuta is made up of 36 domes spread over an area of more than 20 kilometres (12.4 miles). The highest point is Mount Olga, named in honour of Queen Olga of Württemberg by the explorer Ernest Giles.
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While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
Trail changed? New features discovered? Has the route changed? Trail permanently closed? Help fellow hikers by suggesting edits! Click above to update route descriptions, GPX file, trail features (like boardwalks), or access conditions (like parking availability). Help me keep the trails info fresh!
