Carnarvon Gorge
About this walking route
Carnarvon Gorge is a sprawling network of sandstone canyons and side-gorges in the Central Highlands, where cool rainforest pockets shelter Aboriginal rock art, cycad palms and clear creeks. Most walkers base camp at the Oasis and take day walks into dramatic gorges like the Main, Waratah and Violet Gorges, or thread a longer multi-day route through the full system. The 87 km span can be tackled flexibly—short 1–2 day visits suit families; 4–5 day treks suit those keen for remote canyon walking and a true understanding of the landscape.
Highlights
- Ancient Aboriginal rock art in sheltered alcoves
- Cool rainforest in arid inland plateau country
- Deep sandstone canyons with creek crossings
- Cycad palms and fern gullies; rich birdlife
- Flexible itineraries from day walks to multi-day loops
What to expect
Terrain varies from well-graded creek-bed tracks to rough, rocky scrambles up side-gorges and saddles. Sandstone is slippery when wet. Gradients are moderate but cumulative over 4–5 days. Expect creek crossings (usually shallow but check after rain) and some exposed cliff sections. Weather in the gorge is milder than surrounding plateau; winters are cool and crisp, summers hot and occasionally thundery. The walk is immersive—steep canyon walls, the sound of water, solitude in remote reaches.
Good to know
Spring (August–October) and autumn (March–May) are ideal; winters cool but pleasant, summers hot and humid. Book accommodation and permits with the park authority well ahead—camping and hut beds are limited. The gorge floods after heavy rain; check conditions before departure. Reliable water from creek systems, but carry a filter. Respect rock art sites: no touching, photography only from designated areas. Day walks suit moderate fitness; multi-day treks require good endurance and scrambling confidence. Leave no trace: camp only in designated areas.