11 Kalbarri Walks For ALL Skill Levels + Insider’s Tips
Kalbarri is where you go for some of the most scenic hiking trails in Western Australia.
Take your pick – walk along the sea cliffs on the Bigurda Trail, next to the Murchison Gorge on the Loop Walk, or soak in the views from any of the lookouts.
This guide has what we think are the 11 best hikes around Kalbarri. There’s a nice mix of easy strolls and challenging treks, so you can take your pick!
If you visit during wildflower season (July-October) you’ll be in for a treat, as Kalbarri National Park is one of the best places to see this colourful spectacle in Western Australia.
But you must go prepared. We’ll share all about it further down but know that it can be dangerous to hike Kalbarri National Park in summer due to the extreme heat.
There’s not much shade along most trails either, so bring a hat and sunscreen!
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan your hiking adventures in Kalbarri – from the best trails to tips for preparing your walks!
Table of Contents
11 Kalbarri hikes for all skill levels
We recognise the traditional owners of this land in Kalbarri, the Nhanda people.
1) The Loop Walk
Length: 9 km loop (3-5 hours)
Difficulty level: Moderate to challenging (Class 4)
Start/End point: Nature’s Window
Highlights: The iconic Nature’s Window, views of Murchison River gorge, swimming
This is easily one of the most famous hikes in Kalbarri and for a reason!
The loop starts at Nature’s Window, taking you along the cliff for the incredible views of the Murchison. Then, it winds down to the riverbank, where you can go for a refreshing swim.
The return is a bit tough (you essentially have to climb up your way back to nature’s window) but it’s 100% worth it.
It’s not recommended to hike this over summer, though – the temperatures in the gorge can reach up to 50°C. That’s why this hike closes after 7 am from November and March (inclusive).
There’s minimal shade, so bring plenty of water, your bathers, and wear sun protection.
The Loop Walk is one of our favourite walks in all of Western Australia. Take the loop anti clockwise so you end with a swim in the Murchison River.
2) Bigurda Trail
Length: 8 km one way (~2 hours)
Difficulty level: Moderate (Class 3)
Start/End point: Eagle Gorge to Natural Bridge
Highlights: Breathtaking coastal views, spotting whales during migration season, diverse birdlife
This is a stunning coastal hike that spans 8 km along the gorgeous coastal cliffs of Kalbarri, from Eagle Gorge to Island Rock and Natural Bridge.
The views along the trail are nothing short of spectacular, with the chance to spot marine life like whales during migration season (from June to November).
The trail is relatively flat but has some rocky sections, so sturdy footwear is a must. You might have to arrange pick up as well, as it’s a one-way trail.
This trial is very exposed along the cliffs and we got caught out with a bit of rain and no jackets. It also can get very windy. Battling the elements is worth it for the hike though!
3) Z Bend Lookout
Length: 2.6 km return (1-3 hours)
Difficulty level: Moderate (Class 4)
Start/End point: Z Bend
Highlights: Stunning views of the Murchison River Gorge, wildflowers in spring, and the iconic Z Bend lookout.
The Z Bend River Trail in Kalbarri National Park is a must-do! The trail is relatively short but offers a bit of a workout with some steep sections, ladder climbs, and rocky terrain.
As you hike, you’ll be treated to beautiful wildflowers in season and sweeping views of the rugged landscape. The lookout itself provides a fantastic vantage point over the dramatic gorge carved by the Murchison River.
4) Eagle Gorge Lookout Walk
Length: 1 km return (~30 minutes)
Difficulty level: Easy to moderate (Class 3)
Start/End point: Eagle Gorge
Highlights: Panoramic views of the coastline, picturesque beach, native flora
This is a short but rewarding hike that offers stunning coastal views and access to the secluded Eagle Beach. It’s also the starting point of the Bigurda Trail.
The path is a bit steep and rocky, so good shoes are recommended. It’s perfect
This walk is a great choice if you’re looking for a brief yet scenic adventure. The highlight is reaching the beach, where you can relax and take in the natural beauty.
5) The Four Ways Trail
Length: 6 km loop (2-4 hours)
Difficulty level: Challenging (Class 4)
Start/End point: Z Bend
Highlights: Scenic views of the Murchison River, wildflowers, swimming
This is an adventurous and demanding hike that rewards you with the “Four Ways” – the point where the Murchison River crosses two gorges, creating a 4-way junction.
It starts and ends at the Z Bend, winding along the Murchison River.
It’s a hot walk as you’ll be deep in the gorge, so bring plenty of water and your bathers to take a refreshing swim. The terrain can be uneven as well,. so good hiking shoes are essential.
6) Hawk’s Head Lookout Walk (Easy Family Walk)
Length: 300m return (20-30 minutes)
Difficulty level: Easy (Class 2)
Start/End point: Hawk’s Head car park
Highlights: Panoramic views of Murchison River Gorge, shaded picnic area, accessible path
The Hawk’s Head Lookout Walk is a short and easy stroll, making it perfect for all ages and fitness levels.
The path is well-defined and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, leading to a spectacular lookout over the Murchison River Gorge.
This walk is an excellent choice if you want to enjoy the best scenery without much effort. There’s also a shaded picnic area nearby, so you can relax and enjoy a meal with a view.
7) Ross Graham Lookout Walk
Length: 700m return (30 minutes)
Difficulty level: Easy (Class 2)
Start/End point: Ross Graham Lookout
Highlights: Easiest river access in the park for a swim or kayaking, picnic area
The Ross Graham Lookout Walk is a short and straightforward trail that leads you to the most accessible river spot in Kalbarri National Park.
The path is well-maintained and gently slopes down to the Murchison River, offering stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.
It’s a great spot to go for a swim or a kayaking session while enjoying the natural beauty of the area. There are also picnic tables and a public toilet.
8) Red Bluff Lookout to Red Bluff Beach
Length: 1.5 kilometres (1 hour)
Difficulty level: Moderate (Class 4)
Start/End point: Red Bluff lookout
Highlights: Coastal views, steep sections, sunset spot
This is a short but stunning walk that gives you epic views of the coastal cliffs, Jake’s Point, and the town.
The trail includes some steep sections with loose surfaces but is manageable for most fitness levels. It’s particularly popular for watching the sunset over the ocean.
9) Meanarra Hill Lookout
Length: 1.5km loop (1 hour)
Difficulty level: Easy (Class 2)
Start/End point: Meanarra Hill car park
Highlights: Panoramic views of the town, the river, and the coastline – great sunset spot
The Meanarra Hill Lookout Walk is a gentle loop trail to the lookout, which provides sweeping views of Kalbarri town, the Murchison River, and the surrounding coastline.
It’s an excellent spot to watch the sunset! This walk is a great way to end your day in Kalbarri National Park, for a relaxing but beautiful experience.
10) Malleefowl Trail Loop Walk
Length: 1.5km loop (1 hour)
Start/End point: Meanarra Hill lookout
Difficulty level: Easy (Class 2)
Highlights: Scenic views, wildflowers, a chance to spot malleefowl
This is another short, easy hike perfect for those wanting to enjoy a peaceful stroll through native bushland. The trail is well-marked and relatively flat, making it accessible for all fitness levels.
Along the way, you’ll see diverse plant life and, if you’re lucky, you might spot the elusive malleefowl – a ground-dwelling bird native to the area.
11) Murchison River Gorge Walk
Length: 38km one-way (4-6 days)
Difficulty level: Very difficult (Class 5)
Start/End point: Ross Graham Lookout to The Loop
Highlights: Remote wilderness experience, dramatic gorge scenery, ancient geological formations
This is a challenging, unmarked trail stretching 38km along the Murchison River, from Ross Graham Lookout to The Loop.
The scenery is absolutely stunning, as you’ll see the dramatic sandstone cliffs and ancient geological formations.
It’s a true wilderness experience, so it’s for expert hikers with navigational skills.
As a multi-day hike, it requires LOTS of planning. Keep in mind that you can’t do it in summer because of the dangerous heat, or in winter due to the risk of flooding.
Things to know before hiking on Kalbarri
Summer might not be a good time to go hiking in Kalbarri – the heat can be VERY dangerous. Temperatures in the gorge can soar to 50°C!
The Loop Trail, for example, is closed after 7 am from November to March to prevent heat-related incidents.
Additionally, there’s minimal shade along many of the trails, increasing the risk of heat stress and dehydration. That’s why proper hydration is essential
Bring at minimum 1 litre of water per hour per person. For example, if you plan on tackling the Loop Walk, you should bring 4-5 litres of water, as it takes 3-5 hours to complete.
Also make sure to always carry plenty of extra water in your car, more so if you’ll walk in Kalbarri National Park during summer. The risk of overheating is real!
Other things to do in Kalbarri
Kalbarri National Park takes most of the time, as it’s home to popular attractions like the Kalbarri Skywalk, the Nature’s Window, or the Z Bend.
There’s plenty to do in town too! Like surfing at Jake’s Point or chilling at Chinaman’s Beach.
We wrote a full guide about all the things to do in Kalbarri, though! You can check it out here.
Top Tips
The best way to visit Kalbarri is with a road trip! It’s one of the most accessible trips to do in Western Australia, as it can be done in 5 days if you’re driving from Perth.
Plus, on the way, you can check out bucket-list spots like:
Lancelin Sand Dunes
Jurien Bay
Geraldton
Pink Lake (Hutt Lagoon)
Interested? Here’s our 5-day itinerary for a Perth to Kalbarri road trip (FREE map included)
Did you know?
The Nhanda Aboriginal people are the traditional custodians of Kalbarri National Park. You can learn about their rich cultural heritage through interpretive signs at various sites within the park, such as the Skywalk.
You can also book a Kalbarri tour with a Nhanda elder, Colleen Drage, to learn about the beautiful culture and history of the traditional owners of this ancient region, via Kurlajiwangga Tours.
FAQs
Do you need 4WD for Kalbarri National Park?
No, you don’t need a 4WD for Kalbarri! The roads are sealed so it’s easy to access.
How much is the Kalbarri Skywalk?
The Kalbarri Skywalk is free to visit, but you have to pay a fee to enter the national park.
The bottom line
Kalbarri is a top spot for hiking, offering trails for everyone.
If you’re after something easy, the lookout walks are perfect, with stunning views and minimal effort required.
For those up for a bit more of a challenge, the Loop is an excellent option, as well as the Bigurda Trail (the dramatic coastal cliffs are a sight to behold).
But if you’re an experienced hiker with solid navigational skills, the Murchison River Gorge hike is the one for you.
The best time to lace up your hiking boots in Kalbarri is definitely spring when the wildflowers are in full bloom. Just steer clear of summer hikes due to the extreme heat.
Kalbarri’s hikes are fantastic and should be on everyone’s list when visiting this beautiful area. So get out there and enjoy the trails!
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