Karijini National Park in Western Australia is one of the country’s best national parks. Located in the Pilbara region, this staggering national park covers more than 1400 kilometres and is more than two-billion-years old. Here are our top picks of what to see in this spectacular national park.
FORTESCUE FALLS AND FERN POOL
Karijini is the home to many picturesque lakes, falls and rock pools that are perfect for swimming all year round. In the Dales Gorge region in the park’s north-east, you’ll find the breathtaking Fortescue Falls and Fern Pool. Journey to Fortescue Falls and see the Karijini’s only waterfall.
From the lookout, you can watch the majestic waters of the falls glide down the burnt-orange rock face into the calm waters below. From there, take a short walk to Fern Pool and take a dip in the refreshing waters. Grab a picnic basket and some snacks, and spend an afternoon gazing at the turquoise blue waters of Fern Pool.
MOUNT BRUCE (PUNURRUNHA)
The Hamersley Ranges in Karijini’s west is home to Mount Bruce (Punurunha), Western Australia’s second-tallest mountain. There are a number of different tracks for people of all fitness levels, so everyone can experience the views of Mount Bruce.
Beginners can head up to Marandoo View, a spot with an impressive view of the surrounding park. If you’re a serious hiker then head all the way up to the top for a spectacular view of the Hamersley Ranges.
HANCOCK GORGE
If you visit Karijini, you can’t go past the otherworldly Hancock Gorge in the park’s north. The trek to the bottom of the gorge is not for the faint-hearted – after a particularly difficult hike, visitors must crawl across a cliff face and then descend a ladder to get to the bottom.
But this journey is worth it when you see the view at the bottom – towering red rocks appear to touch the sky, as clear blue waters silently float through the gorge. Hancock Gorge is one of the most spectacular views in Karijini, and looks unlike anything else on the planet.
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