The Z Bend in Kalbarri National Park is a captivating natural wonder, aptly named for the dramatic twists carved by the Murchison River into the Tumblagooda Sandstone gorge. This location offers a two-fold adventure – breathtaking views from the lookout and a challenging hike down into the gorge itself.
Start your Z Bend experience with a visit to the lookout. Conveniently located a short distance from the car park (accessible by 2WD vehicle), this wheelchair-accessible viewpoint offers stunning panoramic views of the gorge. Take in the impressive scale of the landscape and appreciate the river's relentless power in shaping the sandstone over time.
For thrill-seeking hikers, the Z Bend River Trail calls. This 2.6-kilometer, grade 4 return hike is designed for experienced adventurers with a good level of fitness. The trail descends down into the gorge, leading you through passages, over boulders, and down ladders. Keep your eyes peeled for the Kalbarri Spider Orchid, a rare endemic wildflower, alongside other colorful blooms that may be gracing the landscape.
Once you reach the gorge floor, the reward awaits. Take a refreshing dip in the Murchison River (during permitted seasons) or simply enjoy a peaceful walk along the riverbank, surrounded by the serene beauty of the gorge.
The Z Bend River Trail is classified as difficult due to the uneven terrain, potential for steep inclines or descents, and sections requiring rock scrambling. Directional signage may be limited, so prior bushwalking experience, navigation skills, and emergency first-aid knowledge are highly recommended. The steep descent, ladders, tight passages, and boulder climbing require a good level of physical fitness and agility. Remember, extreme caution is necessary when navigating gorge environments.
- The summer months (December to April) can be scorching, so plan your hike for cooler parts of the day and ensure you carry sufficient water to stay hydrated.
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Total distance: 2469 m
Max elevation: 157 m
Min elevation: 89 m
Total climbing: 123 m
Total descent: -123 m
Getting to the trailhead: Kalbarri National Park.
The starting point for both the lookout and the Z Bend River Trail is the Z Bend Lookout Car Park, situated along Z Bend Road within Kalbarri National Park. This location is approximately 585 kilometers north of Perth, translating to a 6-hour drive.
Closest towns to this walk: Ajana, Dongara, Geraldton, Horrocks, Kalbarri, Mullewa, Murchison, Nabawa, Northampton, Shark Bay
Kalbarri National Park pays respect to the Nanda people as the traditional custodians of this land. The park itself encompasses the lower Murchison River, where the river has carved a magnificent 80km gorge through red and white banded sandstone. A breathtaking perspective of this natural wonder can be obtained from the Kalbarri Skywalk, a dual-platform structure jutting out over the gorge. Numerous walking trails descend into the gorge, allowing visitors to experience its colorful splendor firsthand.
The park also boasts an impressive coastline sculpted by wind and wave erosion. Here, towering cliffs plunge 100 meters towards the ocean, offering equally stunning views. Particularly during spring, the wildflowers blanketing the landscape add another layer of vibrant beauty.
The town of Kalbarri, situated at the mouth of the Murchison River, serves as a vibrant hub for both fishing and tourism. This town provides a convenient base for exploring the park's many offerings. Activities range from sightseeing and picnicking to more adventurous pursuits like abseiling, rafting, and canoeing. Don't forget to book tours in advance for these activities to ensure a spot.
With so much to see and do, allow ample time to fully experience Kalbarri National Park. For panoramic views of Murchison Gorge, be sure to venture out onto the Kalbarri Skywalk. It's important to note that summer temperatures can be extreme. To ensure a safe and enjoyable visit, plan hikes during the cooler months (May to October). When heading out on hikes, prioritise safety: start early in the morning, carry sufficient water (1 liter per hour per person), wear sun protection, comfortable clothing, and sturdy footwear. As there's no potable water available within the park, remember to bring your own supply.
Looking for more walks in or near Kalbarri National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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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.
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.
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.
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
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
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