Planning a trip to Kalbarri National Park? You’re in for an adventure. Situated less than a day’s drive from Perth, this Western Australian natural wonder is best known for its spectacular lookouts, rugged gorge hikes and epic coastal scenery.
In this detailed guide, I’ll share my top tips and personal recommendations to help you make the most of your visit to Kalbarri.
Where is Kalbarri National Park
Kalbarri National Park is a short drive from the coastal township of Kalbarri, around 575 kilometres north of Perth in Western Australia. To reach Kalbarri from Perth, expect it to take around 6 hours of driving.
Make sure to read my Perth to Kalbarri road trip guide for ideas on where to stop along the way.
Kalbarri is also a popular stop for a few nights on a longer road trip along the spectacular Coral Coast to Exmouth.
What I didn’t realise until my first visit to Kalbarri is that Kalbarri National Park is split into two sections: the inland gorges and the coastal cliffs.
- The coastal cliffs section is closest to Kalbarri town, a short 10-minute drive away.
- The inland gorges section is what most visitors picture when they think of Kalbarri National Park. The Murchison River snakes its way through an 80-kilometre gorge. It is here that you’ll find many iconic Kalbarri attractions like the Kalbarri Skywalk and Nature’s Window.
It takes around 30 minutes to reach the inland gorges of Kalbarri from the town.
Getting Around Kalbarri
Unless you join an organised tour, you will need a car to visit Kalbarri and Kalbarri National Park.
Once you’ve reached Kalbarri, most of the main attractions are a walk or short drive away in town.
You’ll need to drive into Kalbarri National Park, or use the services of some local tour guides offer guided day trips of the park, including pick-up in town (D’Guy Charters is one of these).
You don’t need a 4WD in Kalbarri, all roads are suitable for 2WDs and campervans in the National Park. The only exception to this is the road into Pot Alley along the coast which is not suitable for caravans or motorhomes due to the steep road.
Tip: Caravans, camper trailers and towed boats can’t be taken into the main inland gorge section of Kalbarri National Park. This applies to visitors heading to Z-Bend, Skywalk, The Loop Trail and Nature’s Window.
Leave them in town or there is a small area just after the ticket gate where you can unhitch and leave them.
Towing is allowed for entrance into Hawk’s Head and Ross Graham Lookouts (separate entrance to the Z-Bend/ Nature’s Window entrance).
Best Time to Visit Kalbarri
The best time to visit Kalbarri National Park is from May to September for milder temperatures.
You can visit Kalbarri all year round, but conditions may be challenging for hiking in the park. The popular Loop Trail closes after 7am during the hottest months of November to March inclusive (meaning you will need to have started before this time if you wish to do the hike).
It’s also important to note that temperatures in the National Park often reach 10 degrees Celsius or more higher than those in the town. Even during our visit in early April, we found the heat in the middle of the day too hot for comfort for hiking. Instead, we retreated to the beach or explored the coastal cliffs near Kalbarri.
I recommend bringing a fly net like this if planning to visit during this time. The flies were pretty bad even in April!
Kalbarri usually has very mild winters, making it a great option to escape the colder temperatures in Perth. One of the more popular times to visit Kalbarri is from August – September, thanks to the wildflowers blooming and humpback whales migrating off the coast.
Despite the heat of summer, Kalbarri is still a popular holiday destination for Australians during the school holidays from December – February.
How Long to Spend in Kalbarri
I recommend spending at least two nights in Kalbarri to explore the National Park and the main sights around town.
In both my Perth to Kalbarri and Perth to Exmouth Road Trip guides, I’ve allowed for 2 nights in Kalbarri.
Plan to spend at least one full day exploring the inland gorge section of the park, and one day on the coastal cliff and beach side.
Kalbarri National Park Fees & Opening Hours
To visit the inland gorges, a National Park fee is payable per vehicle. You can purchase this at the ticket booth on entry into the Park. The cost is $17 per vehicle per day (2024 pricing).
If you plan on visiting Kalbarri National Park more than once, or will visit multiple National Parks during your time in Western Australia, consider purchasing a Park Pass. The Park Pass is available for periods of 5 days up to 4 weeks and can save you a lot of money over multiple visits.
There is no fee for the coastal sites of Kalbarri National Park.
Kalbarri National Park does not close, it is open 24 hours a day. Visitors are recommended to visit between sunrise and sunset, due to the active native wildlife that comes out around dusk (and take when driving at these times and at night!).
If you plan on visiting Kalbarri in the first half of February, the National Park is usually closed for one week due to annual park management activities that take place.
You can check with the Kalbarri Visitors Centre or Kalbarri Parks & Wildlife office if this will impact your visit.
Visitor Tips
Make the most of your visit with these essential tips.
- Bring sufficient drinking water: there is no potable water available within the park. Make sure to bring at least 1 litre of water per person per hour in the park.
- Wear appropriate hiking gear, and bring a hat and sunscreen
- Consider bringing a fly net, especially if visiting between November – April
- Especially during warmer months, plan to start your hike early in the day. The Loop Trail is closed for hiking from 7am from November to March inclusive.
Kalbarri Gorge Hikes & Attractions
These are the Kalbarri hikes and attractions on the Inland Gorge side of the Park.
Nature’s Window
Until the opening of the Kalbarri Skywalk, Nature’s Window was the most popular attraction in Kalbarri National Park.
Nature’s Window is a peculiarly shaped rock formation, with a carved-out “window” overlooking the Murchison River Gorge below. It’s one of Western Australia’s most recognisable natural landmarks.
This is one of the shortest, easiest and most scenic Kalbarri hikes in the park.
- Distance: 800m return
- Difficulty: Class 3
- Time: 30-45 minutes
Kalbarri Skywalk
These two impressive cantilevered platforms jut out over the gorge. Walking out over the platforms is a thrilling experience and one of the best things to do in Kalbarri National Park.
There is a short walk from the car park to the skywalk platforms, and is one of the few attractions in the park which is wheelchair accessible.
For more details, check out my dedicated guide here.
The Loop Trail
This challenging trail takes you past Nature’s Window onto a loop walk that follows the natural curve of the Murchison River. You’ll have epic views of the river along the way, before working your way down to the river bank itself where you’ll find sandy river beds and shady gum trees.
There’s a chance to cool off and have a dip in the river before continuing on the loop.
The entry to the Loop Trail closes after 7am from November to March due to high heat.
- Distance: 9 km loop
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Time: 3-5 hours
Z Bend Lookout
This short hike leads you to one of the best viewpoints in the park, the Z Bend. The trail itself is fairly gentle. When hiking in August we spotted many native orchids hiding in plain sight along the trail. At the lookout, I even spotted some wild goats having a spot of lunch in the scrub nearby.
At the Z Bend car park, you’ll find informative displays about the native flora & fauna, as well as a few picnic tables, a BBQ and a bathroom (with drop toilets).
- Distance: 1.2 km return
- Difficulty: Easy
- Time: 1 hour
Z Bend River Trail
On the same trail that takes you to the Z Bend lookout, a right turn will lead you onto the Z Bend River trail.
This trail is more challenging and requires a short but steep descent ladder climb into the gorge and climbing a few boulders. You can walk right down to the river bed.
Unfortunately during our visit in April, there had been large rainfalls the week before which meant the river was engorged and fast flowing so we couldn’t swim. However, at other times, this is a lovely spot for a dip.
- Distance: 2.6km return
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Time: 2 hours
Ross Graham River Trail
One of the shorter trails, this is one of the easiest access points to the Murchison River. The track has a steep walk through the bush down to the river. You can go for a swim here too.
If you aren’t up for the walk, take in the view from the observation deck at the top.
The lookout was named after the first headmaster of the local primary school, who was a natural environment enthusiast and conservationist.
- Distance: 700m return
- Difficulty: Easy
- Time: 30 minutes
Hawks Head Lookout
One of the furthest points from Kalbarri town, Hawks Head Lookout is often overlooked in favour of the more popular attractions in the park.
There is a short walk from the car park to reach the platform overlooking the river.
If you are short on time I personally don’t think it’s worth the extra trip unless you are already doing the Ross Graham River Trail. However, given the short walk and nice photo opportunities, it’s still worth visiting if you are passing through.
Tip: On the drive from the Kalbarri gorge section of the National Park back to town, you’ll pass a turn-off that will lead you to Meanarra Hill Lookout. This shaded, accessible lookout offers panoramic views across Kalbarri town and the coast. There is also a 1.5 km loop walk here called the Malleefowl Trail.
The following hikes and attractions are located on the coastal cliffs side of Kalbarri National Park.
Red Bluff
This is the first lookout along the Coastal Cliffs section of Kalbarri National Park, and closest to town.
A short walk from the car park leads you to a high vantage point lookout with views of the surrounding cliffs and Red Bluff beach below.
This is a great whale-watching spot!
Mushroom Rock & Rainbow Valley
The trail between Mushroom Rock and Rainbow Valley was my favourite coastal walk in Kalbarri. The geology and the rock formations are fascinating, even for those without an interest in rocks!
If you aren’t up for the hike, you can drive to the small car parks at each site.
- Distance: 3 km loop
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Time: 1 hour
Pot Alley
My favourite sunset spot in Kalbarri was Pot Alley.
We visited this spot twice – once during the day to walk down the short trail down to the beach. The water here can be quite treacherous, so we didn’t swim but it was an enjoyable visit all the same.
Eagle Gorge
You’ll find a lookout here, named after the wedge-tailed eagles that nest in the gorge. You can follow a steep trail down to the beach, which takes around 30 minutes.
You can hike from Eagle Gorge to Natural Bridge on the Bigurda Trail which offers breathtaking scenery as it winds and hugs its way along the coast.
- Distance: 8 km one-way
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Time: 3 hours
The best way to see the unique perspective of the Coastal Cliffs is to join a sunset cruise! Admire the cliffs as they turn shades of amber from your vantage point on the water while enjoying BYO food and beverages on board.
Check prices and availability here
Shellhouse Grandstand
You’ll find the Shellhouse Grandstand about halfway on the Bigurda Trail between Eagle Gorge and the Natural Bridge.
Another great viewpoint of the ocean and wind-carved cliffs along the coast. This lookout isn’t as popular as Island Rock and Natural Bridge, so you might find you have it to yourself.
Island Rock & Natural Bridge
At the southernmost point of the coastal section of Kalbarri National Park lies Island Rock and Natural Bridge.
A short walk along a boardwalk takes you to both of these stunning natural attractions that stand testament to the wild natural forces that have carved the limestone cliffs into unique formations.
Other Things to Do near Kalbarri National Park
Explore Kalbarri Town
There are some exciting and fun things to do in Kalbarri town,. from pelican feeding to river cuirses. Read my detailed guide here.
Hutt Lagoon Pink Lake
A 45-minute drive south of Kalbarri lies the bubblegum-pink waters of Hutt Lagoon. This mesmerising sight is worth a stop on the way to or from Kalbarri.
Read all you need to know about visiting the Pink Lake here.
Where to Stay in Kalbarri
The best place to stay in Kalbarri for proximity to the National Park is in Kalbarri town. There is a mix of caravan parks, basic motels and hotels in town.
Kalbarri Accommodation
- Kalbarri Palm Resort ($): Kalbarri Palm Resort has 2 pools, and all rooms have a kitchenette. Basic but functional value for money accommodation, only a 10 minute walk from the beach
- Kalbarri Edge Resort ($$): Just next door to Kalbarri Palm Resort is Kalbarri Edge Resort. I stayed in a one-bedroom suite with spa bath and kitchen, but they also have two-bedroom suites and smaller studios with kitchenettes. The rooms are more modern here than Kalbarri Palm Resort, and there is a heated pool.
- River Retreats Kalbarri ($$$): would be my pick for the nicest accommodation in Kalbarri, and for couples looking for a little bit of a more comfortable stay after a day of adventuring. This adults-only accommodation has individual outdoor terraces plus a swimming pool.
View all accommodation in Kalbarri
Camping & Caravan Parks
- Kalbarri Tudor Holiday Park: I stayed in this caravan park which has a mix of chalets, powered and unpowered. The bathrooms were clean and it was within walking distance of Kalbarri town. There is a pool and a large children’s playground, but we didn’t use these.
- Kalbarri Red Bluff Tourist Park: One of the newer caravan parks, located out of town on the coast near Red Bluff Beach. They also offer two-bedroom chalets that are great for families.
- Murchison House Station: A great option for those that aren’t caravan park people. Bush camping is available at this working pastoral station which is open between April and October.
- Tasman Holiday Parks Kalbarri: this caravan park also has self-contained studio chalets
- Kalbarri Anchorage Caravan Park: located on the banks of the Murchison River near the centre of town
Kalbarri Free Camping
There are no designated free camping spots in Kalbarri or Kalbarri National Park.
The closest free camp to Kalbarri National Park is the Galena Bridge Rest Area. We spent one night here after spending the day in Jurien Bay and drove to Kalbarri the next day
Kalbarri National Park Tours
The easiest way to explore Kalbarri from Perth is to join this 2-day guided highlights tour from Perth that includes stops at Lancelin Sand Dunes, the Pinnacles, Hutt Lagoon Pink Lake and the key attractions of Kalbarri National Park.
For more information and prices, click here.
For day tours within Kalbarri, I can recommend D’Guy Charters. He runs a number of different guided tours of Kalbarri National Park. I’ve been on his wildflower tour and had a great experience, Guy is a local with a wealth of knowledge about the area and local fauna.
Final Thoughts
That wraps up this detailed guide with all you need to know about visiting Kalbarri National Park.
With these tips, you’re ready to explore the natural wonders that lie in store. From the rugged inland gorges to the stunning coastal cliffs, a visit to Kalbarri National Park is one for your Western Australia bucket list.
Make sure to check out my other guides to help plan your adventures in Kalbarri.
Continue Reading:
- 35 Ideas for the Best Things to Do in Kalbarri
- Kalbarri Skywalk: What You Need to Know Before You Visit
- An Epic Perth to Kalbarri Road Trip Itinerary
- Ultimate Perth Itinerary: Fun 3, 5 and 7 Day Itineraries
- 23 Ideas for the Best Day Trips from Perth
- 25 Incredible Things to Do in Exmouth
- Best Whale Shark Tours in Exmouth (plus Essential Swim Tips)
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