Amalia Gorge
Home . The Kimberley, WA
El Questro by Discovery Holdiay Parks
All About
Amalia Gorge
Amalia Gorge: The Hidden Adventure Oasis of El Questro
Walking trail: Grade 4 | 3.8km return hike | 2.5 hours return
DANGER: Sheer cliffs and waterfalls. One slip could be fatal—serious injury or death may result from walking near the edge. Keep to the track. Supervise children closely.
When travelers head to El Questro Wilderness Park in the Kimberley, most gravitate straight toward the famous Emma Gorge. But if you’re looking for a trail that offers more adventure, fewer crowds, and a "secret swimming hole" vibe, Amalia Gorge is the Kimberley’s best-kept secret.
With its dramatic 1800-million-year-old landscape, tiered waterfalls, and crystal-clear plunge pools, Amalia Gorge is a 5-star experience for hikers who don't mind a bit of rock-hopping and a healthy dose of outback wonder.
The Hike at a Glance
- Distance: 3.4km return
- Time: 2 – 3 hours (plus swimming time!)
- Difficulty: Grade 4 (Moderate to Challenging)
- Highlight: The 32-metre waterfall and the tiered "Halfway Pool."
The Experience: Rock-Hopping Through Time
The walk into Amalia Gorge is an adventure from the first step. Unlike the well-worn paths of other Kimberley gorges, this trail feels raw and wild.
- The Creek Scramble: The first half of the walk follows a rocky creek bed. You’ll weave through paperbarks and over sun-baked boulders, with the fiery red sandstone cliffs of the Cockburn Ranges rising higher on either side as you go.
- The Halfway Reward: About 1.5km in, you’ll reach a stunning permanent pool. Many hikers stop here, but the real magic lies further up. Look for the "squeezes" and the ledge sections (there’s even a chain to help you around a tricky rock face!) to continue your journey.
- The Main Event: The trail ends at a spectacular amphitheater. Here, a 32-metre waterfall (most active in April and May) plunges into a deep, cool swimming hole. Surrounded by ferns and ancient stone, it feels like your own private paradise.
Top Tips for Your Amalia Gorge Adventure
- Time it Right: Unlike spring-fed gorges, Amalia is primarily rain-fed. For the best waterfall views, visit in April, May, or June. By August or September, the waterfall may be a trickle, but the deep swimming holes remain refreshing.
- Beat the Heat: There is very little shade on this track. Start your hike at sunrise or by 8:00 AM at the latest to avoid the midday Kimberley sun.
- Vertical Confidence: There is one section that requires a bit of a "hug" against the rock wall. If you have a severe fear of heights, take it slow, but most hikers find it a fun and memorable part of the challenge!
- Look for "Freshies": Keep an eye out for Freshwater Crocodiles basking on the rocks. Don't panic—they are generally shy and harmless, but they make for an incredible "only in the Kimberley" photo!
Essential Travel Info
- Location: El Questro Station, Gibb River Road (approx. 1 hour from Kununurra).
- Access: 4WD is recommended for the rocky track to the trailhead.
- Permits: An El Questro Visitor Permit is required to access the gorge.
- What to Pack: Minimum 2 litres of water, sturdy hiking boots (no flip-flops!), and your swimmers.
Activities
- Hiking
- Photography
Facilities
- Walking trail
- Carpark
Important Information
Guidelines
- Always do some research before heading out for your journey. Visit the parks website for up to date information on the current conditions. Ensure to check for any updates relating to any warnings that may be issued for the area, and check for the opening and closing times.
- Always enjoy waterfalls from trails and marked viewing points. Do not climb over barriers as cliff edges and slippery surfaces may cause injury or death.
- Only swim where permitted. Don’t jump from cliff edges into water bodies.
- Swimming near or under waterfalls can be dangerous due to strong currents, submerged hidden rock ledges and other dangers. The force of a waterfall can be incredibly strong and unfortunately, many people have drowned. Follow warning signs and take caution.
- Wear suitable footwear and ensure to bring a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the elements.
- Plan ahead and ensure to take enough food and water for your journey.
- Always stay on the marked tracks where possible. Never climb fences, they are there for your own safety.
- Please consider the environment, take your rubbish with you or place in the bins provided. We want to ensure these beautiful places are still here for our future generations to enjoy.
- Ensure to let a responsible adult know of your plans and report back into them once you have finished exploring for the day.
- Leave nothing but footprints. Take nothing but memories.
Photo credit: El Questro by Discovery Holdiay Parks
Location
Getting to El Questro Wilderness Park
Address: Amalia Gorge, El Questro Wilderness Park, The Kimberley, Western Australia
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