A visit to Hamersley Gorge is highly recommended as it boasts one of the most renowned pools in Karijini National Park. Although situated in the far corner of the park and requiring an additional hour’s drive, it is definitely worth the trip. To save time, it may be worthwhile to visit this gorge on your way in or out of the park.
As you make your way down to Hamersley gorge, get ready to be mesmerized by the stunning scenery of fiery-hued cliffs and crystal-clear water. When the sun bathes the ancient gorge, it uncovers breathtaking layers of banded iron formations that stretch back millions of years!
Don’t miss the chance to take a dip in the Spa Pool, which sits on one end of the gorge and boasts an invigorating waterfall that spills into a refreshing plunge pool. On the other side, the gorge seems to stretch on infinitely, leaving you in awe of its sheer magnitude. Keep scrolling down to see for yourself – you won’t believe your eyes!
Hamersley Gorge is a popular destination that lives up to its hype with its picturesque views. The glistening turquoise water and impeccably shaped rock frame are a result of mother nature’s work with water and time. You can find accessible areas and recreational spots in the car park above, including concrete ramps leading to the upper viewing area and amenities. The hike into the gorge is relatively short, about 400m, with rock staircases most of the way, making it suitable for families. Though it can be steep at times, exercise caution. Additionally, there are two other main walks to explore in Hamersley Gorge: the Hamersley Gorge Walk (1km, 3-hour return) and the Hamersley Waterfall Walk (400m, 45 minutes).
Embark on an adventure through Hamersley Gorge Walk, where you’ll journey upstream and encounter tranquil pools and lazy streams. Be cautious as you traverse the slippery, polished boulders along the way. The trail will lead you to The Grotto, a fern-lined chasm situated on the eastern side of Hamersley Gorge. Witness the mesmerizing swirls of vibrantly colored rock that cascade down into the gorge’s depths. Hamersley boasts intricate patterns that are more intricate than those found in other gorges within Karijini due to the tilts and angles shaped by time and geological forces, making it a unique destination.
As the sun rises, the vibrant colors of the ancient rock walls in Hamersley Gorge are illuminated in a breathtaking way. Many people are unaware that this immense gorge can be explored from end to end. The interconnected series of pools and streams create a “path” that spans the entire length of the gorge, making it an exciting adventure to swim through each one. As you explore, you’ll come across new and surprising sights around every corner.
During our exploration of Hamersley Gorge, we swam and hiked for hours, but it felt like the gorge had no end. Eventually, we had to stop to reapply sunblock and have lunch before continuing on our journey. Despite the long trek, the experience was well worth it.
One of the highlights of our trip was visiting the Spa Pool within Hamersley Gorge. While the view from above is stunning, being down below in the wide-walled gorge allows more sunlight to penetrate the depths. This increased light also warms up the water in the pool, making it less bracing compared to other waterholes in Karijini National Park.
As soon as you step into the gorge, you’ll immediately spot the Spa Pool upstream on your right-hand side. To get there, you’ll have to carefully make your way through the slick rocks and a few metal steps. But once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by one of the most stunning natural pools that you’ve likely ever seen. The vibrant turquoise water is mesmerizing, and immersing yourself in it will leave you feeling peaceful and serene. This is no ordinary spa experience – you’re completely surrounded by nature. And when you’re ready to take relaxation to a whole new level, simply position yourself under the gentle waterfall and let its soothing flow wash away all your worries.
To fully enjoy your trip to Karijini, a visit to Hamersley Gorge is a must! If you’re wondering whether you can take a dip in the water, the answer is yes, but be prepared for chilly temperatures below the surface. Consider bringing a floatation device, such as a “noodle” or “donut,” to make your swim more enjoyable. As for crocodiles, you won’t have to worry about encountering any at Hamersley Gorge, as it’s too far inland and south for them to inhabit the area. The gorge is located in the north-west corner of Karijini National Park, which is quite a drive from Perth (approximately 15 hours) or a two-hour flight into Paraburdoo or Newman. Keep in mind that it’s also an hour’s drive from most other sites in Karijini. Despite the distance, Hamersley Gorge is highly recommended and considered one of the most remote and scenic gorges in the park.
Mother nature has truly outdone herself with Hamersley Gorge – a waterfall unlike any other. If you’re wondering about accessibility, fret not as 2WD vehicles can make their way there. However, 4WD vehicles have an advantage due to the red dirt roads in the area, making for a smoother drive. Nevertheless, many visitors with 2WD vehicles have managed to navigate around the park just fine. At the gorge, you’ll find a well-equipped car park with public toilets. While it may take a little more time and effort to get to Hamersley Gorge compared to other waterfalls in Karijini, we assure you that it’s a destination that’s definitely worth a visit and shouldn’t be missed.
Looking for a place to stay near Karijini National Park? The Karijini Eco Retreat has you covered with their accommodations and campsites. Plus, it’s conveniently located near other gorges like Joffre Gorge. Keep in mind that there are no free campsites within the park, but there are some outside of it. To ensure you have a spot, it’s best to make your bookings ahead of time.
When exploring the park, wearing shoes with good grip is essential as some areas can be tricky and the rocks slippery. Waterproof hiking sandals are highly recommended for Karijini. Remember, heavy rainfall can lead to flash flooding, so it’s important to leave the gorge immediately if this happens.
Lastly, don’t forget to pack a picnic! It’s easy to lose track of time in this beautiful area, so be prepared with snacks and drinks to enjoy along the way.
The gorge boasts areas covered in lush trees, providing ample shade to visitors. Is Hamersley Gorge worth a visit? Absolutely! Our experience there was nothing short of amazing, making it one of our top recommendations. Besides being ideal for thrill-seekers, it’s also a family-friendly attraction, both easy to reach by a 2WD vehicle and featuring a less daunting climb down into the gorge. We encourage visitors to fully immerse themselves in the experience, taking time to appreciate the stunning rock formations and even venture for a swim down the gorge for a surprise reveal of additional gorges. It’s an all-day affair, with various walking trails and pools to explore. One can relax in the spa pool while admiring the breathtaking rock formations – a peaceful haven perfect for soaking up some sun and tranquility.
