Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Experience an adventurous journey through the iconic landscapes of Litchfield National Park, Northern Territory, Australia, with the 20km Wangi Falls to Walker Creek hike. This Grade 4 trail, taking two days to complete, starts at the majestic Wangi Falls and meanders through palm-fringed creeks, open woodlands, and lush rainforests before ending at tranquil Walker Creek. Enjoy panoramic views, diverse wildlife, and refreshing plunge pools along the way. Remember, preparation is key for this remote Top End wilderness trek.

Length:

20km

Duration:

2 days

Grade:

Style:

One Way

Max elevation: 221m

Min elevation: 33m

Total Ascent: 488m

Start: Wangi Falls

End: Walker Creek

Litchfield National Park

Northern Territory

Nearby town: Batchelor

From state capital: 131km

Latitude: -13.162624072611557

Longitude: 130.68216383457187

Overview

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Important info

Walking in hot weather can be dangerous and sometimes even deadly. If you’re planning this hike, make sure you’re prepared. Notify a reliable person of your intended route and expected return time. Carry a satellite phone or PLB (personal locator beacon). You should also have a topographic map and GPS. Swim only in designated areas. Carry and drink plenty of water. Avoid strenuous activity during the heat of the day.

Hike overview

The Wangi Falls to Walker Creek section of the Tabletop Track in Litchfield National Park, Northern Territory, Australia, offers hikers a diverse and engaging experience through some of the park's most iconic landscapes. This demanding 20-kilometre leg, classified as Grade 4, requires a two-day commitment to complete comfortably.

Starting at Wangi Falls, hikers will be greeted by the sight of the majestic twin waterfalls cascading into a large, clear pool surrounded by lush monsoon forest. This area is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking before beginning the hike. The initial stages of the walk follow a palm-fringed creek, culminating in a scenic view at Tjenya Falls. Be aware that Tjenya Falls may not always be flowing. From here, the trail progresses through open woodlands and grassy plains, offering expansive views of the surrounding landscape. The terrain is undulating, with sections of rocky outcrops and occasional creek crossings that add to the hike's adventurous feel.

Midway through the hike, the trail meanders through pockets of rainforest, providing a cool and shaded respite from the open woodlands. These sections are characterised by dense vegetation and a rich diversity of plant life. The trail passes through diverse habitats supporting a variety of wildlife, including wallabies, birds, and occasionally reptiles.

Approaching Walker Creek, the environment becomes increasingly lush and verdant. The final descent into Walker Creek is relatively gentle, ending at a series of tranquil plunge pools perfect for a refreshing dip after a long day of hiking. Walker Creek is known for its serene environment, with a series of small plunge pools ideal for swimming and relaxing. Campgrounds are accessible via short link tracks close to the main trail.

The Wangi Falls to Walker Creek section offers a rich variety of landscapes, from lush monsoon forests and open savannah woodlands to rocky outcrops and pristine waterholes. As you traverse rocky paths, open woodlands, and river crossings, you will experience the remote wilderness of the Top End during this memorable hike. Ensure you are well-prepared, as there are minimal facilities along the trail.

Note: The length shown is based on recorded measurements and not the 17.5km length promoted by the Parks & Wildlife Commission of the Northern Territory. There was a notable discrepancy, and it is safer to overstate rather than understate the distance.

Tips

The best time to hike is during the dry season (May to October) to avoid extreme heat and heavy rainfall.
Carry sufficient water as natural water sources may not be potable.
Sturdy hiking boots are recommended due to the rocky and uneven terrain.
Inform someone about your hiking plan and expected return time.
Camping is only permitted in designated areas. If planning to camp, ensure to book designated camping spots ahead of time.
Swim only in designated areas - heed all signs.
Parks may close unexpectedly due to bushfires, flooding or park maintenance.
Before you go, check if the park is open.
Always check for any park alerts or permits required before starting your hike.
Flying your drone - get a permit before you arrive.

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
Wangi Falls to Walker Creek Hike (20km)

Total distance: 20122 m
Max elevation: 221 m
Min elevation: 33 m
Total climbing: 488 m
Total descent: -430 m

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Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Litchfield National Park.

If you’re driving from Darwin, head south on the Stuart Highway until you reach the turnoff for Batchelor Road. Follow the well-maintained Batchelor Road all the way through Batchelor and Rum Jungle townships. Signs for Litchfield National Park will be visible along the way. Once you enter the park, continue following the sealed park road, and you’ll eventually find yourself on Wangi Falls Road. This road leads directly to the carpark and trailhead for the Wangi Falls Walk.

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

Get there with Google Maps

About the region

Litchfield National Park: A Natural Wonder of the Northern Territory. Litchfield National Park, encompassing roughly 1,500 square kilometres, is a jewel of the Northern Territory. This ancient landscape, shaped by water over millennia, boasts a captivating array of natural wonders. Cascading waterfalls tumble from the sandstone plateau of the Tabletop Range, forming crystal-clear pools ideal for swimming.

The park is significant to the Koongurrukun, Mak Mak Marranunggu, Werat, and Warray Aboriginal people, with their ancestral stories woven into the very fabric of the landscape. Visitors can explore shady monsoon forest walking trails, marvel at the unique magnetic termite mounds, or be awestruck by the weathered sandstone pillars of the Lost City.

A Haven for Adventure: Litchfield National Park offers endless opportunities for exploration. Whether you seek refreshment beneath cascading waterfalls, marvel at fascinating termite mounds, discover hidden waterholes, or challenge yourself on hiking trails, this park caters to all interests. Camping is the primary accommodation option within the park boundaries, but various lodges and resorts are located nearby for those seeking different comforts. Even a well-planned day trip can allow visitors to experience the park's highlights.

History and Accessibility: The park's name honours Frederick Henry Litchfield, a member of the Finniss Expedition, the first European encounter with this region. Extensive mining for tin and copper dominated the area from the late 1800s until the mid-20th century. Declared a national park in 1986, Litchfield has become a haven for nature lovers.

While a sealed road connects the park's major attractions, a four-wheel drive vehicle is necessary to access The Lost City, Homestead, Central Valley, and the Reynolds River Track. During the dry season, this track allows experienced drivers to reach the Daly River Road. Renting a vehicle? Confirm if it's permitted on unsealed roads.

Accessibility is twofold. The park can be reached via the southern entrance near Batchelor or the northern entrance along Peninsula Way, forming the Litchfield Loop. This loop integrates the park with the Cox Peninsula, creating a more extensive sightseeing experience.

A Local Favourite: Litchfield National Park's pristine swimming holes and scenic walking tracks make it a cherished destination for Darwin residents. Basic amenities like meals and refreshments are available near Wangi Falls, while various accommodation options cater to different budgets and preferences, including campsites, cabins, and caravan parks within or near the park, and lodging options in the nearby township of Batchelor.

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, Batchelor, Berry Springs, Darwin, Howard Springs, Humpty Doo, Katherine, Pine Creek, Rum Jungle, Wangi Falls

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 Litchfield 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.

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Wangi Falls to Walker Creek Hike (20km)

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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

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