3 days

WA: 3 Days in Karijini National Park

What you'll do

Karijini is, in my opinion, THE most amazing national park in Australia!

If you’re keen to soak up the best of Karijini National Park in three days, this is my go-to itinerary. I’ve been to Karijini quite a few times now, and this plan nails it every time—iconic gorges, epic hikes, and plenty of time for a swim in those stunning falls.

Here's a summary of the itinerary: start by stocking up in Tom Price before diving into the crystal-clear waters of Hammersley Gorge. Day two is all about gorge-hopping with stops at Knox, Hancock, and Joffre Falls, while day three kicks off with a sunrise hike up Mount Bruce and wraps up with a dip at Fortescue Falls and Fern Pool.

It’s a ripper of a trip that’s perfect for packing a lot into a few days without feeling rushed.

ENJOY!

Day 1

  • Morning: Stock up in Tom Price.

    • Activity: Visit Coles in Tom Price to get supplies.

    • Tip: Ensure you have plenty of water, snacks, and fuel before heading into Karijini National Park.

1

shop

Coles Tom Price - Stock up on groceries while you can!!

The only major supermarket you'll see for a while

Take it from me, when you're in Tom Price, the local Coles is your best friend—it's the only major supermarket around, and you’ll definitely want to take full advantage of it before heading into Karijini, and onwards on your travels! I believe the next major supermarket will be in Port Hedland or Karratha, depending on your route.

  • Drive to Hammersley Gorge:

    • Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes (72 km) from Tom Price to Hammersley Gorge (-22.638809, 117.672923).

2

Waterfall

Hamersley Gorge - My favourite gorge in Karijini

Stunning gorge with iconic photo plunge pool

Hamersley Gorge, located in Karijini National Park, is a stunning natural wonder known for its colorful rock formations and tranquil pools. Visitors can enjoy a swim in the gorge while taking in the sweeping views of waterfalls cascading down the rocks. With improved facilities like a lookout, toilet, and sealed road access, it's a great spot to explore and relax in the beauty of Western Australia's outback.

3

campsite

Free Camp - Karijini

Perfect spot to stay overnight

Just a bit north of Tom Price, we stay here every time we come to Karijini - nothing flash but perfect for a night x

Evening: Drive to a campsite.

  • Travel Time: Around 1hr to free camp

Day 2

  • Early Morning: Drive to Knox Gorge.

    • Travel Time: Around 1 hour 15 minutes (97 km) from Campground to Knox Gorge.

1

Hike

Knox Gorge - Stunning canyon with tranquil swim spot

Short but steep hike down into the gorge

Knox Gorge is a 2km trail down into the gorge, where you'll navigate rocks and ledges to reach a beautiful slot canyon! Try visit in the early afternoon before the sun gets too low, so you can enjoy the tranquil swim spot in the sunlight.

I did this hike in thongs, but do be careful as it's steep and loose rocks.

Mid-Morning: Drive to Hancock Gorge.

  • Travel Time: 15 minutes (12 km) from Knox Gorge.

2

Hike

Hancock Gorge - The most amazing 'walk' in Karijini

Scrambling to wading to climbing to swimming!

Hancock Gorge in Karijini National Park is an absolute ripper – it’s hands down one of my faves because the scramble to get in is such a blast! You’ll climb, shimmy, and wade your way through this epic natural playground. Pro tip: ditch the hiking boots and chuck on some sandals or grippy reef shoes because you’ll be in and out of the water, and it can get super slippery in spots.

The trek itself is next-level fun – think narrow rock passages and those iconic Karijini reds everywhere. At the end, you’re rewarded with this stunning, almost surreal pool. It’s the perfect spot to chill after the adventure in, but trust me, head there early to beat the crowds and soak it all up in peace.

Afternoon: Drive to Joffre Falls.

  • Travel Time: 10 minutes (8 km) from Hancock Gorge.

3

Hike

Joffre Falls - Ambient theatre-like gorge

Fun scramble, beautiful photos, not the best swimming

Joffre Falls has this stunning amphitheatre vibe with sheer rock walls wrapping around the falls like nature’s own stage. The views alone will blow your mind – it’s a photographer’s dream, especially in the late afternoon when the light dances on the red cliffs.

Getting down to the base is an adventure in itself – you’ll tackle ladders and scramble over rocks, which makes the whole experience feel like a mini obstacle course. Just a heads-up, though: it’s not the best spot for a swim as the water can be a bit chilly and shallow, but the climb and the vibe totally make up for it.

Late Afternoon: Drive to campsite.

  • Travel Time: 25 minutes (30ish km) from Joffre Falls.

4

campsite

Free Camp - Karijini, near base of Mount Bruce

Sleep under the stars amongst the vast Karijini valleys

If you’re heading to Karijini and looking for an epic free camp, the Mount Bruce spot is where it’s at. It’s proper bush camping – no fancy facilities here – but what it lacks in luxuries, it more than makes up for with views. You’re surrounded by Karijini’s stunning red landscapes, and at night, the stars put on an absolute cracker of a show. Bring a swag or your rooftop tent and just soak it all in.

The best part? You’re only five minutes from Mount Bruce. It’s the perfect spot to base yourself if you’re keen to tackle the summit hike at sunrise. Trust me, watching the sun creep up over the Pilbara is worth the early alarm – the way it lights up the rugged ranges is something else.

As for the camp itself, it’s pretty chill and low-key. There’s plenty of space to set up, and it’s free (always a win). Just remember, you’re in the middle of nature, so pack out everything you pack in – keep it as beautiful as you found it.

Day 3

Pre-Dawn: Drive to start of Mount Bruce hike.

  • Travel Time: 6ish minutes (4ish km) from campsite.

1

Hike

Mount Bruce - Worth the 3:30am wakeup!

This may be the best sunrise hike in Australia

Mount Bruce is nothing short of breathtaking (in every way)… and when I say breathtaking, I mean it literally took our breath away with a 3:30am start to hike up the summit for sunrise (took us 1.5 hours so we were v early). Would recommend giving yourself 2 hours to get there for sunrise (there’s a free camp 5 mins from the start of the walk). Pack warm clothes for the top because it’s veryyyy cold, water and some form of torch (phone light is fine).

The best part about doing this hike for sunrise, is that you'll do half the summit in the dark (which is so fun!!), so it's like you're taking it all in for the first time as you descend!

Late Morning: Drive to Fortescue Falls and Fern Pool.

  • Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour (50 km).

2

Waterfall

Fortescue Falls - Kick back on the rocks by the falls

Relax, swim and explore

Fortescue Falls is the ultimate spot to kick back and soak up nature’s best vibes. You can sprawl out on the sun-warmed rocks by the waterfall and just let the sound of the water do its thing – it’s so peaceful. If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, you can even jump off the rocks into the deeper sections of the pool. Just scope it out first and be careful, yeah?

The walk down is an experience in itself, with little pockets of tranquility along the way where you can chill under the trees and feel like you’ve got your own secret oasis. It’s a pretty popular spot, so if you’re after a quieter vibe, try getting there early or closer to sunset.

3

Waterfall

Fern Pool - Magical and tranquil swimming oasis

Such a dreamy spot to relax and unwind

The most magical time of day is the afternoon, where the crowds quiet down and golden hour approaches.

Fern Pool in Karijini National Park is one of those magical spots that feels like a magical fairy oasis. Surrounded by towering red cliffs and lush ferns, this serene pool is beautifully tranquil, with crystal-clear waters that invite you to take a refreshing dip. The vibe here is peaceful, making it a great place to simply relax and soak in the stunning surroundings.

What makes Fern Pool even more special is how close it is to Fortescue Falls, another breathtaking spot in the park. After enjoying the falls, which cascade down into a pristine pool below, it’s the perfect time to cool off at Fern Pool. The two spots complement each other perfectly, creating a day of adventure, beauty, and relaxation.