Z Bend Lookout is a 1.2km, grade 3 hike located in Kalbarri National Park, Western Australia. The hike should take around 45 minutes to complete.
Hike overview
Visitors can admire the spectacular views of the Murchison River Gorge, from the overhanging rock formation of the Z bend lookout, a moderately easy walk from the Car Park.
One of the most spectacular lookouts in Kalbarri National Park, Z Bend Lookout is suitably named after the tight bends the Murchison River has carved into the Tumblagooda Sandstone. A short walk, including some stairs will take you from the Car Park to the barricaded lookout on the edge of 150m high cliffs. Take the time to enjoy the colours of the lush river red gums contrasting against the rich red sandstone cliff formations. If visiting during wildflower season from July to October this experience is heightened by a sea of flowering natives, including Flame Grevillea, Bird Beak Hakea, Starflowers, orchids and the Pink Poker. After enjoying the lookout, you can have lunch in the Picnic Area, using the barbeque and sheltered areas. For those with a good level of fitness, the more adventurous Z Bend River Trail takes you down into the gorge up to the river's edge. This trail is physically demanding and extreme care should be used in gorge risk area.
Route and GPX file
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Tips
Start Point: Z Bend Road, Kalbarri National Park, 585km North of Perth (6 hours)
End Point: Z Bend Road, Kalbarri National Park, 585km North of Perth (6 hours)
Region: Kalbarri National Park, Coral Coast
For more information, a location map and GPS file please visit Trails WA.
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Gallery
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About the region
One of Western Australia's best known parks, with its scenic gorges though red and white banded sandstone and its soaring coastal cliffs. Kalbarri National Park surrounds the lower reaches of the Murchison River, which has cut a magnificent 80km gorge through the red and white banded sandstone to create formations such as Nature's Window and The Loop, Z-Bend and Hawks Head, with scenic gorge views at the Ross Graham Lookout and views of the town and river mouth at Meanarra Hill.
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Explore Safe
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.
Let someone know
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.
Gear to consider
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
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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.