Exploring Kings Canyon: The Ultimate Northern Territory Outback Adventure
If you’re looking for an unforgettable journey through Central Australia, you’ve come to the right place. Join us as we explore the stunning landscape and unique experiences on offer at Kings Canyon, Watarrka National Park. This guide will help you plan a 3 to 5 day trip, covering everything from breathtaking hikes to family-friendly activities, ensuring you make the most of your outback adventure.
Day 1: Arrival and Kings Creek Station, Petermann
Morning: Arrive at Kings Creek Station
– Accommodation: Settle into your campsite or bush tent at Kings Creek Station, a privately owned cattle station located 36km from Kings Canyon. The station offers a range of accommodation options from camping to luxury glamping tents that overlook the spectacular George Gill Range.
– Facilities: The station has great selection of amenities including a swimming pool, camp kitchen, and fantastic children’s playground. There are also bathroom facilities and a free laundry for guests. The station also operates a café where you can try their famous camel burgers.
Afternoon: Kings Creek Walk, Watarrka National Park
– Kings Creek Walk: This family-friendly 2km (return) trail takes you along the creek bed on the floor of the Canyon and is surrounded by rich red ochre rocks and massive river gums. You’ll be amazed at the Canyon’s sheer cliff walls that tower hundreds of meters above you, and if you’re lucky you’ll spot the Rim Walk hikers that look like tiny little ants above. This easy to moderate walk is perfect for soaking in the natural beauty of the National Park.
Evening: Campfire and Stargazing
– Campfire: Back at camp, collect your firewood from designated areas on the Station and enjoy a cozy campfire as the sun begins to set. (No firewood is to be collected from the National Park)
– Stargazing: The clear outback skies offer a perfect opportunity for stargazing. Relax and enjoy the breathtaking views of the milky way.
Day 2: Kings Canyon Rim Walk
Morning: Kings Canyon Rim Walk, Watarrka National Park
– Rim Walk: Start your day early with the Kings Canyon Rim Walk, a challenging yet rewarding 6km Grade 4 hike. The walk begins with a very steep ascent of approximately 500 steps to the top of the Canyon, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Highlights include Cotterills Bridge, the lush Garden of Eden, and the weathered domes of ‘The Lost City.’
Afternoon: Relax at Camp
– Relaxation: After your hike, return to Kings Creek Station to relax and refresh. Take a dip in the swimming pool or enjoy a leisurely lunch at the café.
Evening: Sunset and Campfire
– Sunset: Enjoy another stunning outback sunset from your campsite. The changing colours of the desert landscape are truly mesmerising!
– Campfire: Gather around the campfire for another evening of stargazing and storytelling.
Day 3: Kathleen Springs Walk
Morning: Kathleen Springs Walk, Watarrka National Park
– Kathleen Springs Walk: This easy and accessible 2.5km (return) walk follows a sealed track to a spring-fed waterhole at the head of Kathleen Gorge. Interpretive signage along the trail tells the stories of Aboriginal culture and the recent cattle industry, and the waterhole offers a lovely place to relax and soak in the tranquillity of the landscape.
Afternoon: Explore Off-Road
– Buggy Tour: For an adventurous afternoon, consider taking an off-road buggy tour of the station. Learn about outback life and the everyday workings of a cattle station in Central Australia, plus the history and culture of the region.
Evening: Dinner and Campfire
– Dinner: Enjoy a night off cooking with a meal at the station’s café. Be sure to check ahead with staff for daily kitchen operating times.
– Campfire: Gather around the campfire for another evening of stargazing and relaxing.
Day 4: Kings Canyon Resort, Petermann
Morning: Kings Canyon Resort
– Resort Facilities: Head to Discovery Parks Kings Canyon Resort and settle into your campsite or accommodation. The Resort offers fantastic facilities including a swimming pool, playground, restaurant and bars, and a range of different accommodation options including deluxe rooms and glamping tents. The Resort is also home to the Bruce Munro Light Towers, an incredible art installation that comes alive at sunset.
Afternoon: Relax & Unwind
– Luritja Lookout: A short walk from the Resort’s Bar & Grill, the Luritja Lookout offers unrivalled views of Carmichaels Crag and the famous George Gill Range. Enjoy a drink on the platform and watch the incredible sandstone features of the range change colour as the sun dips behind their peak.
Evening: Light Towers and Dinner
– Light Towers: As the sun sets, explore the Bruce Munro Light Towers at Kings Canyon Resort. This immersive sound and light installation is a must-see.
– Dinner: Enjoy a great dinner and live music entertainment at the Resort’s Bar & Grill, with everything from wood-fired pizzas, gourmet burgers and the very best in BBQ on offer.
Day 5: Kings Canyon Resort, Petermann
Morning: Kings Canyon Resort
– Resort Facilities: Enjoy a slow morning at the Resort making use of the facilities. Relax by the pool or enjoy morning tea at the Bar and Grill, open for all day dining.
Afternoon: Scenic Helicopter Flight
– Helicopter Tour: Take a scenic helicopter flight over Kings Canyon and the surrounding region for a bird’s-eye view of the rugged landscape. This is a fantastic way to appreciate the scale and beauty of the Canyon.
Evening: Carmichael’s Restaurant
– Dinner: Enjoy a delicious dinner at the Resort’s restaurant, featuring local produce and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Additional Activities and Tips
Activities:
– Cultural Tours: Participate in the Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience to learn about the traditional owners’ connection to the land.
– Swimming: Cool off in the swimming pools at Kings Creek Station and Kings Canyon Resort.
– Photography: Capture stunning photos of the landscape, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Tips:
– Permits: Ensure you have purchased your National Parks Pass for access to Watarrka National Park.
– Safety: Bring plenty of water, a hat, sunscreen, and sturdy walking shoes for hikes. Always inform someone of your plans and expected return time.
– Weather: The best time to visit is during the cooler months (April to October) to avoid the extreme heat of the summer.
A multi-day trip to explore Kings Canyon and Watarrka National Park offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re hiking the challenging Rim Walk, wining and dining at the Resort, or enjoying a cozy campfire under the stars, this outback adventure promises unforgettable memories. Plan your trip today and discover the beauty of Central Australia!
