Visit the Katherine Gorge Nitmiluk National Park.

Katherine Gorge, Nitmiluk National Park, just 30 kilometres north-east of Katherine. And it covers a vast area, including 13 impressive gorges carved from the ancient sandstone country.

The Windolf Walk is a moderately challenging track that winds along Katherine River and up to Pat’s Lookout for a sweeping view of the gorge. The 8.4km return track includes access to the picturesque Southern Rockhole – a seasonal waterfall.

What makes this gorge so spectacular? The sunrise and at sunset hiting the gorge and move it through a spectrum of colours and glowing hues.

Why not hire a canoe to see waterfalls, ancient Aboriginal rock art and wildlife. Or try a cruise to see the cliff face colours and the cliff faces towering over the boat. And listen as Traditional Owners of the park, the Jawoyn people, talk about spiritual world of their culture and history. A ‘must-do’ experience, showing the gorge system, Arnhem Land escarpment and local wildlife from a different perspective. Flights leave from the nearby Visitor Centre

Swimming holes

There are some great spots to cool off in the Katherine Gorge, Nitmiluk National Park. Like the tranquil waters of Leliyn (Edith) Falls, on the park’s western boundary. Swim among picture-perfect rock formations. Another is a full day or overnight walk, you can follow the track to Sweetwater Pool, a secluded swimming hole where the waters mimic the sky in a spectacular display. For the slightly more adventurous you can paddle through the narrow chasms of Butterfly Gorge. A quiet, shaded gorge with rocky walls that are home to thousands of butterflies.

Spiritual Significance

Learn the cultural and spiritual significance of the gorge for its Traditional Owners, the Jawoyn and Dagomen people. For thousands of years, the Jawoyn people have maintained their culture and traditions.  Through the stories passed from one generation to generation – the Dreamtime. Nitmiluk is the Jawoyn name for Katherine Gorge. It is pronounced Nit-me-look, and literally means Cicada Place.