Your ultimate Karinjini National Park Itinerary Guide 2026
Are you planning your getaway to the beautiful Karinjini National Park in Western Australia? Here are all the informaiton you need to have an unforgetable Trip.
ITINERARIESAUSTRALIARECENT
Pia
8/19/202617 min read
Karinjini National Park is one of Western Australias most impressive natural wonders and with plenty of reasons it should be on every travellers Bucket List for Australia. Tucked away in Western Australias Outback its the perfet destination for a roadtrip from anywhere in Australia.
Helpful Tips:
Come prepared Karinjini is pretty remote and you will need to do some things to have a seamles trip.
Fuel up, there are no fuel station in the Park
Pack all your food and water, there are no stores in the park
check your season wet or dry season both has advantages and disadvantages
plan your trip, there is so much too see and the distances are quiet big, so plan ahead to make the most out of your trip
you need to rpebook all of your accomondation
you need a valid Park pass, you can either purchase this online, or at the entry of the Park, in the visitor center or if you hold a valis Western Australian Park Pass
No Dogs or Pets allowed thoughout the Park
When to visit?
Winter (June to August):
The Winter months have the perfect confitions for a lot of Hiking. There will be an average temperature of 25degre during the day, but it will rapidly cool down at night, so if you are camping bring extra blankets and prepare for a cold night. During the day swiming a perfect after a long hike to quickly cool down, but it can get chilly rather quickly.
Summer (December to February):
Those are the hootest months and hiking is ebst done early mornings, in the Gorges temperatures can reach up to 50degres so be prepare and dont take any unnecesary risks. The swimming holes are the perfect refreshments during that time period.
Cyclone Season (November to April):
If you are going in one of those months, plan ahead and check park closures regulary. Heavy rainfall can cause road closures, or gorge closures.
OUR EXPERIENCE:
We visited in early June and found it perfect Conditions. Temepraturewise it was perfect for hiking and you could even swim in the gorges. There also werent too much people and it definitely did not feel overly crowded. Some of the Hikes were definitely easier, as there was less water in the gorges. Downside: You coudo not swim in all of the gorges as there wasnt enough water everywhere.
See below a chart of the average temperatures in Karinjini National Park:
Source: Karinijni Eco Retreat Website
How to get there:
You can reach Karinjini National Park by driving from either Tom Price or Newman.
Tom Price, WA:
If you are driving from Tom Price, you will take about 1hours to reach the western part of the Park. Tim Price will be your last fuel stop and a lot of people stay overnight in tom Price and head ealry morning will stocked supply and fuel into the Park.
Newman, WA:
If you drive from Newman, you will reach after a 2.30hrs drive the eastern entrance of the Park. Newman is your last fuel and supply stop, so make sure you stock up. You can either fly into Newman from Perth and rent a Car or connect it with a roadtrip starting in Perth.
Fly to Karinjini:
This option is usually the most expensive one and not necesary the quickest. If you catch a flight from Perth to Paraburdoo (1.5hrs from Karinjini), hire a car and drive the remaining 1.5hrs into the Park. Fligs usually take 2hrs from perth and operate daily with Quantas.
Where to camp in Karinjini?
Karinjini offers 2 different accomondations within the National Park. Dont let yourself fooled by social media, free camping within the National Park is NOT permitted. Since there is no fuel stations within the park some people opt to drive to Tom Prive on the second day to sleep in Tom Price and drive with new fuel back into the Park the next morning which is roughly a forty five minutes drive.
Dales Campground:
Dales Campground is the only accomondation option in the eastern Side of the Park and only caters towards Campers. You can set up your Tent or park up in your Car, Campervan or Caravan. Bookings in advance are essential.
Booking can be made via this Link using th eofficial goverment website: https://exploreparks.dbca.wa.gov.au/site/dales-campground
Cost (as of June 2026):
Fees are charged per Aduld/Night:
15AUD per Adult / 10AUD Concession
5AUD per Child / No Concession
ATTENTION: When you book your Camping pay attention to the booking process as you can either select to purchase your parkpass with your Camping ticket or if you already ourchased your park pass you need to untick it.
Depending on your set Up you can book different Sites.
Here are my recommendations:
Euro Loop 75 - 78
Those bays are located near the trail to the circular lookout and the Three ways lokkout, they have some shade and are further away from the sites with permits generators, so its less noisy. There are some toilets but they are not too close so you dont smell anything.
No Shower facilities at Dales Campground, it is recommended to be fully self sufficient.
Some selected Sites allow generators.
Toilet and Dump Point are available
Take your rubbish with you
Be Dingo wise
Karinjini Eco Retreat:
Karinjini Eco retreat offers Accomondation, a on site Restaurant, has some souveniers for purchase and offers guided tours.
Handy located right next to Weano gorge Area, within walking distance to Joffrey Gorge this is the perfect option for travellers seeking some more luxury.
Different Accomondation Types:
You can either camp in their Caravan Park or sleep in one of their Glaping options they do oofer different types of luxury.
Do you need a 4wd to explore Karinjini NP?
Easy answer no not necesarily. Unlike a lot of other National Parks in Australia you can explore Karinjini almost fully without a 4wd. There are only a couple tracks which are striclty 4wd accessible. Then there is the main attraction Hemersley Gorge, which is still a unsealed Road, but they recetly upgraded it so it is still a 30minutes drive on corrugation road, but it is definitely manageble with a 2wd.
Update - Our Own Experience:
At the Visitor Centre, we were told that the road to Hamersley Gorge was manageable in a 2WD because a lot of work had recently been done on it. So, we decided to make the trip in our regular 2WD campervan.
To be honest, the drive was a nightmare. Some parts of the road were fine, but others were extremely rough and badly corrugated.
We were also a little disappointed when we arrived. Hamersley Gorge looks much bigger and more impressive in online photos than it does in real life. This was a shame because we thought the rest of Karijini National Park was absolutely fantastic.
Based on our experience, we wouldn’t recommend driving to Hamersley Gorge in a 2WD.
Things to do in Karinjini NP:
Dales Gorge:
Dales Gorge is one of Karijini's most accessible and rewarding attractions, making it a perfect introduction to the park. The trail descends into a dramatic red-rock chasm where permanent pools, lush vegetation, and towering cliff walls create a striking contrast to the surrounding Pilbara landscape. The highlight is the popular Circular Pool Walk, which links two of the gorge's most famous swimming spots: Fortescue Falls and Fern Pool. This moderate hike takes around one to two hours and offers spectacular scenery, especially in the cooler morning hours.
Fern Pool:
Tucked beneath a canopy of fig trees and ferns, Fern Pool is often described as Karijini's oasis. This tranquil swimming hole is fed by a small waterfall and holds cultural significance for the local Banyjima people. The calm, crystal-clear water and peaceful atmosphere make it one of the park's most memorable places to relax and take in the natural beauty.
Fortescue Falls:
One of the few permanent waterfalls in the Pilbara, Fortescue Falls cascades down a series of rock steps into a deep swimming pool below. A staircase leads visitors from the car park to the base of the falls, making it one of the easiest attractions to access in Karijini. It's a popular place to cool off after a hike and serves as the starting point for the walk through Dales Gorge.
Hancoc Gorge:
Hancock Gorge offers one of Karijini's most adventurous experiences and is a must for confident hikers. The trail quickly becomes a hands-on journey involving narrow passages, rocky ledges, and sections where you'll need to wade through water. The famous "Spider Walk" requires visitors to brace themselves between the gorge walls as they shuffle through a tight slot canyon. Those who continue are rewarded with the breathtaking Kermit's Pool, a deep emerald swimming hole hidden within the gorge.
Kermit's Pool:
Reaching Kermit's Pool is an adventure in itself. After navigating Hancock Gorge's challenging terrain, visitors emerge at this stunning natural pool enclosed by smooth, towering rock walls. The vivid green water and intimate setting make it one of Karijini's most iconic destinations and a favourite among adventurous travellers.
Hemersley Gorge:
Located in the north-western section of Karijini National Park, Hamersley Gorge is renowned for its spectacular folded rock formations and crystal-clear pools. The highlight is Spa Pool, where a small waterfall tumbles into a natural rock basin surrounded by swirling bands of ancient stone. The walk into the gorge is short but steep, and the unique geology makes it one of the most visually striking spots in the entire park.
Knox Gorge
Less crowded than some of the park's better-known attractions, Knox Gorge rewards visitors with sweeping views and a sense of solitude. The return walk descends through the gorge to a series of pools framed by layered rock formations. Adventurous hikers can continue beyond the marked trail to explore deeper sections of the gorge, where the scenery becomes even more dramatic.
Joffre Gorge
Joffre Gorge is famous for its impressive natural amphitheatre, carved over millions of years by flowing water. From the lookout, visitors can admire the curved walls plunging into the gorge below. The steep descent to the base leads to seasonal waterfalls, tranquil pools, and striking rock formations. The return hike is challenging but well worth the effort for those seeking one of Karijini's most photogenic locations.
Wenao Gorge
Weano Gorge combines dramatic scenery with a variety of walking options suitable for different fitness levels. The upper section provides spectacular lookouts into the gorge, while the lower trail leads hikers through narrow rock passages and shallow pools. The route eventually connects to Hancock Gorge and offers a fantastic introduction to Karijini's distinctive slot canyon landscapes.
On the way to Hancoc Gorge - Start climbing or take a swim...
2 Day itinerary from and to Newman (2wd):
Leave Newman early morning after having Breakfast and hit the road, this is even more important in the wetseason as you want to beat the heat.
Fuel up and fill up your groceries before your leave newman. Newman is your last place in civilization before you head into the wilderness.
To get to the eastern entrave of the National Park it takes you about 2.30hrs driving, with nothing along the way.
Fact Check:
Distrance from Newman: 2.30hrs driving
Last servo is in Newman
Last grocery is located in Newman
No reception all over Karinjini
Karinjini Visitor Center:
offers Showers for 4AUD per Shower
you can fill up your tank with portable water
check for up to date Park informaiton which might restrict your visit
you can pay the Karinjini Entry fee here
public Toilets
Day 1:
Your first stop in Karinjini National Park is the Visitor Center. The Visitor Center has all the information you will need during your trip. Check here if there are any closures you need to be aware of, check whether or not you are alloved to swim in any of the gorges and shop for some souveniers.
On Day 1 you will explore the eastern Side of Karinjini, from the Visitor center drive rougly 10km to the Fortescue Falls Carpark. Pack a little daybag and head towards the Fortescue Falls Lookout.
Once you reach the lookout (litterally 2minutes walk) prep yourself for a enormous sets of stairs down into the gorge. At the bottom you will see your first pool of water (and yes you can swim in there, and yes it is a really refreshing dip). I would recommend hiking the short distance to Fern Pool and have a quick dip into the pool, swim to the waterfall and relax in the little cave behind. After that hike back to Fortescue Falls and start your first big hike for the day. The Hike from Fortescue Falls to the Three ways Lookout is a Grade 4 Hiking Trail. When we did it we have seen kids hiking it, I wouldnt be too worried. For more ifnormaiton about the different Hiking grades in Karinjini click this Link Different Hiking Grades in Karinjini explained. To hike to the Three Ways Lookout it takes you roughly 1 hours 45min. We did it a bit wuicker, but when we went there was less water then in the wet season, so it might add some time to navigate through bigger puddles. Take your time navigating that hike as it has some beautiful scenery.
Once you made it to the Three Ways Lookout you can either turn around and go back towardsFortescue Falls to enjoy the hike once more or you follow the Class 3 Grade Hike back to the Fortescue Falls Lookout. If you rpefer to walk on the top rim of the Canyon then take the class 3 hike, if you prefer the more shaded bottom of the Canyon just turn around and go back the way you came. Etiher way you will end up back at Fortescue Falls, where you can have your Lunch and go again for a refreshing Dip.
After enjoying yourself in the water, go back to your vehicle and check into your accomondation at Dales Campground just around the Corner. Once you have set up everything you can have a coffee break and relay for a bit. Then off you hike towards the Circular Pool Lookout (depending from where you parked up in the Campground this can take up to 30minutes. From there you hike to the Three ways Lookout and if you decided earlier to return on the lower rim, you will now hike the upper canyon. I recomment his version especially if you go in the warmer months of the year. On you made it back to the Lookout you can either go for a quick dip again, or walk back to your Campsite, where you can relax for the rest of the day. Dont forget to watch the nightsky once it turnes completely dark, as you have a fantastic view on the nightsky in Karinjini and you can spot plenty of Shooting starts during a clear night.
Day 2:
Day 2 Starts early as you have a full day in fronf of you. Have a good breakfast and pack up your Camp then you drive to the Weano Recreation Area. This drive takes about 40-45minutes.
Park your vehicle and pack a day pack with enough water and snacks for some challengin hikes.
Start your day with the Grade 5 hike to handrail Pool. In the dry season it is less chalenging and quicker to complete. At the end you will be rewared with a beautiful pool, dont forget your camera as you will shoot plenty of pictures along the way.
Handrail Pool hike is a return hike, meaning you will end up where you started and from there you can complete another grade 5 hike to the Kermit Pool. this one takes a bit longer an is a bit challenging as you have to go through some water pools and climb along the walls, but again i have seen families on the hike. You pass the beautiful Amphitheatre, the Spider walk and end up at the Kermits Pool, from there you have to turn around again and go back from where you came. Back at your vehicle you can drive to the Eco Retrat (just a ten minutes drive) for a quick coffee and a Ice Cream, before getting back onto the Hike. From Eco Retreat drive to Joffre Gorge and park your Car. Here start the Grade four Hike to the Joffre Gorge Lookout and continue along Grade five trail to the Joffre Gorge & Waterfall. This is also a Return Hike. Back at your Car have lunch and drive back to Frotescue Falls Carpark where you can have one last dip into the Fortescue Pool, befreo heading back towards Newman.
If you have 3 Days in Karinjini:
If you have three days in Karinjini you are able to see more and take your time exploring the PArk in more depth. Please be aware that you will have to prepare a little bit more. Bring Jerry can to make sure you dont run out of fuel.
Day 1:
Your first stop in Karinjini National Park is the Visitor Center. The Visitor Center has all the information you will need during your trip. Check here if there are any closures you need to be aware of, check whether or not you are alloved to swim in any of the gorges and shop for some souveniers.
On Day 1 you will explore the eastern Side of Karinjini, from the Visitor center drive rougly 10km to the Fortescue Falls Carpark. Pack a little daybag and head towards the Fortescue Falls Lookout.
Once you reach the lookout (litterally 2minutes walk) prep yourself for a enormous sets of stairs down into the gorge. At the bottom you will see your first pool of water (and yes you can swim in there, and yes it is a really refreshing dip). I would recommend hiking the short distance to Fern Pool and have a quick dip into the pool, swim to the waterfall and relax in the little cave behind. After that hike back to Fortescue Falls and start your first big hike for the day. The Hike from Fortescue Falls to the Three ways Lookout is a Grade 4 Hiking Trail. When we did it we have seen kids hiking it, I wouldnt be too worried. For more ifnormaiton about the different Hiking grades in Karinjini click this Link Different Hiking Grades in Karinjini explained. To hike to the Three Ways Lookout it takes you roughly 1 hours 45min. We did it a bit wuicker, but when we went there was less water then in the wet season, so it might add some time to navigate through bigger puddles. Take your time navigating that hike as it has some beautiful scenery.
Once you made it to the Three Ways Lookout you can either turn around and go back towardsFortescue Falls to enjoy the hike once more or you follow the Class 3 Grade Hike back to the Fortescue Falls Lookout. If you rpefer to walk on the top rim of the Canyon then take the class 3 hike, if you prefer the more shaded bottom of the Canyon just turn around and go back the way you came. Etiher way you will end up back at Fortescue Falls, where you can have your Lunch and go again for a refreshing Dip.
After enjoying yourself in the water, go back to your vehicle and check into your accomondation at Dales Campground just around the Corner. Once you have set up everything you can have a coffee break and relay for a bit. Then off you hike towards the Circular Pool Lookout (depending from where you parked up in the Campground this can take up to 30minutes. From there you hike to the Three ways Lookout and if you decided earlier to return on the lower rim, you will now hike the upper canyon. I recomment his version especially if you go in the warmer months of the year. On you made it back to the Lookout you can either go for a quick dip again, or walk back to your Campsite, where you can relax for the rest of the day. Dont forget to watch the nightsky once it turnes completely dark, as you have a fantastic view on the nightsky in Karinjini and you can spot plenty of Shooting starts during a clear night.
Day 2:
After packing up and having Breakfast drive to the Weano Area, this will take you roughly 45minutes. Park your Car at the Carpark and pack a daypack.
Start your day with your first hike, I would recommend starting with one of the Grade 5 hikes, as you want to use the colder temperatures. Start with the Kermits Pool Hike and enjoy a adventourus hike with beautiful scenery. This is a return hike and will take you roughly 2 hours to complete. Once you make it back to your starting point tackle the second 5 Grade hike and hike the handrail pool, this one only takes about 45minutes return and especially in the dry season this hike isnt really a grade 5 hike. Before you take the turn back to the car park hike down to the Oxer Lookout, its just about a 800m detour which maybe takes you 20minutes and the lookout is really nice.
After that you will tackle the longer, bu more steadier hike, pack your lunch for this one as I recommend having a lunchbreak along the way. This one is the Glass four Weano Gorge Hike, a loop so you will end up back at the Carpark. Take your time for this one and dont rush through it, time is on your side.
Back at the Carpark, drive to the Eco Retreat where you will stay for the night, check into your accomondation and have a ice cream and coffee break at the restaurant, then go for your last hike for the day. Hike to Joffree waterfall, best thing you dont need to drive for this one, you can just hike from the retreat directly. Check out the Joffre Lookout and from there hike down to the waterfall, if you have the right conditions, you can evendive in for a refreshing dip there.
Head back to your Campsite and have a well earned dinner, either at the restaurant or cook it yourself.
Day 3:
Start your day early with breakfast and pack up your site, then drive to Knox Gorge. Here you have to hike two trails, one is the easy 200meter return hike to the Lookout, and then continue on the 2km Knox Gorge Trail. After youve done that get back into the Car and drive towards the Western Park of the Park, your final destination: Hemersley Gorge. Karinjinis most famous attraction: the Spa Pool. This drive will take you roughly 1hrs15min and the last part is unselaed, but the corigation road is good to handle even with a 2wd. Park your Car in the Hemersley Gorge Car Park and prepare for a hike. (Dont forget your swimmers.) You will embark on the Hemersley Gorge Walk, a 1km, return Hike will take you anything between 1 and 3 hours depending on your hiking speed, how many pictures you take and so on. You get rewared with the famous Spa Pool and can take a refreshing dip in the scenic Pool. If you have still energy left tackle the Hemersley Waterfall Walk (Glass 4 Hike) a 400meter, 30min return track down to the waterfall.
After that have Lunch and head towards your next destination if youre headin towards Newman, you will rather have a look at the time you will have more than a three hours drive in fron tof you, if you are finishing at Tim Price you can take your time as this is only a 1hour drive.
Hiking Grades in Karinjini:
Grade 1 - Easy:
Short, flat walks on well-maintained paths. These trails are suitable for almost everyone, including young children and people with limited bushwalking experience.
Grade 2 - Easy to Moderate:
Clearly marked trails with some uneven surfaces, steps, or gentle inclines. A basic level of fitness is helpful, but these walks are still suitable for most visitors.
Grade 3 - Moderate:
Walks with steeper sections, rough terrain, and natural obstacles such as rocks or loose surfaces. They require a reasonable level of fitness and some bushwalking experience.
Grade 4 - Challenigng:
More demanding hikes that involve steep descents, scrambling over rocks, and navigating uneven ground. Good fitness, confidence, and sure footing are essential.
Grade 5 - Very Challenging:
The most adventurous trails in Karijini. These hikes may include climbing, wading through water, squeezing through narrow gorges, and exposed sections. They are recommended only for experienced and well-prepared hikers with a high level of fitness.
ATTENTION:
Always carry plenty of water, wear sturdy footwear, and choose walks that match your fitness level and experience. Conditions in Karijini can change quickly, especially during the hotter months, so it's important to follow all safety advice and trail closures issued by park authorities.
Please Note:
When we visited Karijini outside the wet season, we found many of the hikes easier to navigate. Water levels were lower, making creek crossings and narrow gorge sections less challenging, and the cooler temperatures made longer walks far more enjoyable.
Of course, you know your own abilities best. Always check current trail conditions and choose hikes that match your fitness level, experience, and confidence. If a track looks beyond your comfort zone, there's no shame in turning back.
That said, don't let the hiking grades intimidate you too much. With a bit of preparation and common sense, many visitors find Karijini's walks more manageable than they first expected. Take your time, listen to your body, and enjoy the adventure at your own pace.
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