The Karijini National Park is located at the heart of Western Australia, it’s an awe-inspiring landscape filled with unique rock formations, waterfalls, deep gorges, and more. These natural wonders and the opportunity to explore them fully should make a visit to this park a priority for all travelers to this region.
A Glimpse into Karijini’s Rich History
This national park is located in the Pilbara region, the Aboriginal people of this region are the Banyjima, Innawonga, and Kurrama groups. They have inhabited this region for thousands of years and they have many traditions and stories connected with the natural features.
European exploration and settlement in this region occurred from the late 19th century on wards. Explorers and pastoralists were drawn to Pilbara for the rich grazing land and the opportunity to mine valuable minerals. The nearby town of Tom Price was established in the 1960s as a mining town.
The Karijini National Park was formally established in 1969 under the original name which was Kamersley Range National Park. The park’s name was changed to Karijini National Park in 1991 to enervate the local people, their heritage, and their deep connection with the park.
Why Karijini is a National Park
The purpose of the park is to protect the unique natural and geological features. This park contains some of the oldest rocks on Earth and it’s been shaped by geological processes that have been working across the land for billions of years.
This can be seen in the layered formations of rock, brightly colored mineral deposits, and deep rugged gorges that dot the landscape.
Because of its stunning natural features, Karijini National Park is now a popular destination for backpackers, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts from all over the world.
There are many activities to participate in, including camping, hiking, photography, taking guided tours, and more. Due to the cultural and geological significance of the park, visitors are encouraged to learn about the local traditions and history.
Who Maintains Karijini Park
The Karijini National Park is managed by the Western Australia Parks and Wildlife Service. Great care is taken to conserve and protect the cultural values and the fragile local ecosystems. Sustainable tourism is encouraged, but you may notice certain directions and signs that are designed to keep the park pristine for everyone. This national park truly is a unique natural wonder and we need to ensure that it stays that way in perpetuity for the generations to come.
The Spectacular Gorges of Karijini
Many people believe that the eleven main gorges in the Karijini National Park are the standout natural features. These are iron formations that cut down into the surface with cool shady areas, waterfalls, crystal water pools, and streams that offer some respite from the heat above. Let’s take a closer look at four of our favorite gorges:
1. Dales Gorge Karijini
This gorge is located on the Eastern side of the park, it’s a one hour walk to Fern Pool and Fortescue Falls. With an extra couple of hours on the return hike, visitors could approach from the left from the falls to the Circular Pool if they prefer.
Our Visit to Dales Gorge
As we were part of a bus tour, we stopped for lunch at the Picnic area. The tour company provided us with our lunch, which was really nice and they catered for everyone, including any special diets.
After Lunch we drove to a car park where we were able to walk to the Three Ways Lookout. Areas around the lookout had some wild flowers starting to bloom. This part of Dales Gorge was impressive. There was a platform to stand onto and look out at the different directions of Dales Gorge.
From this location you can continue to walk on the trail to Fortescue Falls lookout, but instead we drove around to the Fortescue Falls car park. We then walked to the Lookout before walking down the steps to take a closer look at Fortescue Falls and the Fern Pool. Although there were some people swimming, it was a bit cold for us. What you discover when you arrive is amazing, it is well worth the walk down and back.
Going to Fortescue Falls and Fern Pool was the highlight of our visit to Karijini National Park.
Whichever direction you choose, fern pool karijini national park must be visited. This is a paradise location and it’s a refreshing place to rest after hiking. The pool has a ladder, in the water you can see tiny fish that want to nibble at your feet. Don’t be alarmed, these are the same fish that are used in pedicures. They remove dead skin only and here you get to meet them in the wild.
2. Joffre Gorge Karijini NP
There is a two hour return hike to reach Joffre Gorge, but it’s well worth the effort. Many people turn around at the midpoint because there is a very steep section and some scrambling over crushed rock. So, this is not a hike for people with mobility issues or health problems.
But, for those that make the trip, they are greeted with a breathtaking natural amphitheatre with walls that change colour when the afternoon sun strikes them. There may be a rushing waterfall and a lot of water in the gorge if you visit after the wet season. Swimming out to a distance of 250 metres reveals a secret island, but take a flotation device with you, in case you run out of steam during the swim.
If you are unable to hike down to Joffre Gorge you can go to Joffre Lookout where there is a viewing platform to look down over the Gorge. It is about a 200 metres return. As we were on an organized tour we had limited time and so we hiked to the Joffre Lookout and viewed Joffre Gorge from above.
3. Weano Gorge Karijini
To reach this gorge and the appropriately named Handrail Pool, you will need to spider walk across sheer rock walls with the fast running water under you. This sounds scarier than it is and for the brave, this is well worth the journey because a stunning pool can be visited.
To get into the pool, you will need to suspend yourself from a handrail (hence the name) and climb down into the water. Once you’re in, you can float and look at the spectacular gorge shapes that frame the blue skies above. A truly unforgettable experience for those who can manage the hike and climb. Before you leave, visit the far end of the pool for a hidden area that many visitors miss! The gorge surfaces can be slippery, so it’s a great idea to wear waterproof hiking sandals to improve your footing on the slopes.
4. Hancock Gorge
This gorge is located right next to Weano Gorge and between the two you can easily spend most of a hot day sheltering and swimming in this area. To reach Hancock Ǵorge you will descend down a ladder and pass colourful rock layers and pools. There are many hikes in this area, but you will need to bring spare clothes, towels, food, water, and other supplies. This gorge contains the gorgeous Kermit’s Pool which rivals Handrail Pool for a breathtaking experience. Nearby, you can find a recreation area that contains all the facilities you need for the day.
Unique Flora and Fauna
Karijini National Park covers a large area that contains an impressive range of biological diversity from closed forests to grasslands and more. Most of the park is covered with hummock grass (Triodia), open shrubs (mainly Acacia,) and tree layers (primarily Eucalyptus). But, there are more than 500 different species of native flora in the park, including some rare species, such as Mulga (Acacia aneura) stands and Paperbark (Melaleuca leucadendra) forests.
From June to September, the wild flowers are in bloom, including Karijini Wattle, the delightfully named Purple Mulla Mullas, and more. This varied vegetation supports a wide variety of native fauna, including insects, birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.
When you visit the park, you may see rock wallabies, echidnas, red kangaroos, and rare species, such as the Pilbabara ningaui and the bilby. Keep your smartphone or camera handy because you never know what you’re going to see next.
Camping and Accommodation Options
There are two campsites in the park, the first is the Dales Campground. It’s basic, but the location and views are spectacular. The second is the Karijini Eco Retreat which is more like a glamping experience with all the up-to-date amenities. Let’s take a look at both campsites in more detail to help you make an informed choice for your visit.
The Dales Campground
As the name suggests, this is located close to the Dales Gorge, Fortescue Falls. Circular Pool and Fern Pool. There is a short walk that connects all these natural wonders to the campground and this is why it’s in high demand from June to September.
There is an overflow camping area, but it’s located 10 km further away, and booking ahead earlier is the best way to avoid camping that far away. The Dales Campground is well equipped with gas BBQ areas and picnic tables.
There is no portable water and no bins to keep curious dingos away. There is a dump point for garbage at the visitor’s centre located 12 km away and it does have showers. Most visitors take a dip in Fortescue Falls when they feel like they need to freshen up and wash.
The Karijini Eco Retreat
This campground is located near Joffre Gorge, it’s a more upscale location with plenty of accommodation choices, including cabinets, glamping tents, motorhome stands, and pitches for tents, camping trailers, and caravans. There is a bar, an outback restaurant, a kiosk, and even a souvenir shop to visit. The amenities are great, there is an undercover bush kitchen with a sink, seating, and a gas BBQ. Visitors have access to solar hot water showers, flushing toilets, and a shared bathroom.
Finally, for visitors on a tighter budget, there is always the option to free camp outside the park to explore the area on the next day.
Seasonal Considerations and Weather
The Karijini National Park has distinct seasons and variable weather. This may affect your trip depending on what you want to see and do as follows:
Spring (September-November)
The temperatures are beginning to warm up, the wildflowers are in bloom and the entire park looks more colourful. The water levels will gradually drop towards the end of spring and visiting earlier in the season is recommended, if you want to view waterfalls and swim.
Summer (December-February)
This is the wet season, it can be very hot with temperatures that exceed 100ºF (37ºC). The heavy rain can cause flash floods and some areas may be hazardous to reach. Swimming at this time can be fun, but the water conditions can change quickly and extra caution is essential to avoid injuries. Although the park is less crowded, the heat will cause problems for anyone who wants to participate in outdoor activities.
Autumn (March-May)
Many people consider this the best time to visit the park because the weather is milder compared to the scorching summer heat. The water levels in the gorges are still high from the wet season which is perfect for waterfalls and swimming. There are also fewer visitors at this time of day so it’s easier to get your preferred camping spot.
Winter (June-August)
This is the dry season, the temperatures range from mild to warm and this makes longer hikes more comfortable. There is next to no risk of extreme heat, but the nights can be colder, and warm clothing is essential for camping.
We visited Karijini in early July, as there had not been a lot of rain, it was dry. We started off wearing coats, but after walking through Weano Gorge we were quite warm and the coats came off.
The season generalities are indicative of the conditions that you’re likely to encounter in the Karijini National Park. But, there are seasonal variations and it’s a good idea to check the weather conditions before you depart.
During the wet season, certain trails and roads in the park may be closed due to flooding or for essential maintenance. Take the proper clothing for the season you travel, drinking water, and food for your stay.
When you explore the park and gorges follow the safety precautions to reduce the risk of injury. There are a number of rescues each year, which is a lot less then what there use to be.
Karijini National Park: In Conclusion
Karijini National Park truly is a natural wonder to explore, the ancient landscape and culture combine to deliver an unforgettable trip. All nature lovers, hikers, photographers, campers, and people seeking a deeper connection with Australian history will appreciate what this park has to offer. If you’re visiting Western Australia this is a must see destination that you will never forget.