Karijini National Park

#Adventure!
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If you're wondering what my favourite national park in Australia is, it's Karijini. The stunning narrow canyons and the vibrant colours of the rock contrasting with white ghost gums held me spellbound for a couple of days. To give you some idea of scale, note the tiny figures in the bottom left hand of the picture. This shot was taken in Hancock Gorge, accessed by ladder.

#Adventure!
A DAY OF HARD KNOX
When we’d first arrived the afternoon before, we’d gone to the lookout, where we gazed wistfully into Knox Gorge. Away to our right, who knows how far, there was a tree at the base of a slot canyon, one I determined was special. Its white bark was such a contrast to the iron stained cliff behind I just had to go and get a picture of it on the morrow.
The next day started well. We were first (just) down the steep slope into Knox Gorge ahead of a busload of backpackers, only we turned right and they went left on the main trail. Where we went there was no sign that man had trodden here.
We worked our way towards the upper end of the gorge. The trails here in the canyons are all classed 5, just like the one we had done the day before and, at times, it was very tricky getting past obstacles and avoiding the seriously cold water, such a contrast to . More than once we helped each other, either pushing or pulling, climbing the layered cliffs of iron ore to find a route upstream.
The rewards however were views of yet another of Karijini’s masterpieces. We later overheard a local ranger say that some rate Knox as the prettiest of the lot.
Nothing quite prepares you for the stunning reds as the sun sheds light on this 2 billion year old landscape, pushed up from the ancient ocean floor by forces beyond your imagination.
As we clamber our way along the edges the cameras click endlessly and there are moments when we find it hard to continue, such is the magnificence of the spectacle and the hypnotic peacefulness of the surrounds.
Karijini continually exceeds its promise, and there’s so much to see. We forced our way around a bend, scrambling yet again over the layered rock to be confronted by paradise for photography.
Dramatic red cliffs, studded here and there with precariously clinging vegetation, all set beneath untainted blue skies and coursed by a crystal clear bubbling stream with intermittent mirror pools. Fodder for the soul indeed.
We located the tree at some stage and it didn’t disappoint, but we suspected there would be more.
What could have been a 90 minutes walk had taken us well over three hours and we adventurously pushed on before deciding to climb a virgin scree slope off to the right in order to get us to the top of the gorge and avoid all the obstacles going back.
Here again there were no trails, just picking gaps in the lawn of the apocalypse (aka spinifex) as our feet slipped on the crumbling rock slope beneath. At the heights the spinifex disappeared and in the next half hour we continually checked out from whence we’d come; at once admiring the outback landscape and then peering back into Knox.
The motorhome was a welcome sight but that day’s experience would live with us forever.

#Adventure!
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Termites nest beneath ghost gum

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Popular places to visit

Oxers Lookout

Find out about the history of Karijini with a stop at Oxers Lookout. While you're in the area, wander around the parks.

Tom Price Mine

You can find out about the history of Karijini with a stop at Tom Price Mine. While you're in the area, wander around the parks.

Karijini National Park

Explore the great outdoors at Karijini National Park, a lovely green space in Karijini. While you're in the area, wander around the natural setting.

Best Lodging Options Near Karijini National Park

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Karijini Eco Retreat

Weano Road Karijini WA

Tom Price Tourist Park

Nameless Valley Drive Tom Price WA

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Things to do in Karijini National Park

Shopping

For souvenirs, check out the Karijini Visitor Centre, which offers local arts and crafts. If you're up for a drive, the nearby town of Tom Price features shops like Tom Price Newsagency and the Outback Store for unique gifts and Aboriginal art.

Recreation

Karijini Eco Retreat offers a unique glamping experience, immersing you in nature while providing wellness activities like yoga sessions and guided meditation. Explore the stunning gorges and waterfalls through hiking, or relax with spa treatments that rejuvenate your mind and body amidst the breathtaking landscape.

Adventure

Explore the stunning Dales Gorge with its breathtaking waterfalls and emerald pools. Hike the challenging trails to Fortescue Falls and Circular Pool for a refreshing swim. Don't miss the impressive views from Oxer Lookout, where four gorges converge, offering a perfect photo opportunity.

Nightlife

Karijini National Park offers a serene nightlife under a starlit sky, perfect for stargazing. Enjoy campfire gatherings or join guided night walks to explore the park's nocturnal wildlife. While there are no bars, the natural beauty creates a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation and reflection.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Karijini National Park

Explore the stunning landscapes of Karijini National Park, where you can experience breathtaking canyons, scenic gorges, and the rich history of former mines. This destination offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and wildlife experiences, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts. Don't miss the top sights within the park for an unforgettable journey through Western Australia's natural beauty.

Tom Price Mine: Explore the rich history of one of Australia’s largest iron ore mines, located just 1.1km from Karijini National Park. The mine offers a glimpse into the region's mining heritage, showcasing the industrial landscape and fascinating geological formations.
Oxers Lookout: Experience breathtaking views at Oxers Lookout, also 1.1km from Karijini National Park. This lookout is perfect for outdoor lovers seeking adventure and romance, offering stunning vistas of the gorges and valleys that define the park’s rugged beauty.
Karijini National Park: Discover the stunning scenery of Karijini National Park, located 20.9km away. Known for its dramatic landscapes, this park invites outdoor adventure enthusiasts to hike through stunning gorges, swim in natural pools, and immerse themselves in the breathtaking wilderness.

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