Self-Guided Hikes

Emma Gorge is one of the best known and spectacular gorges of the Kimberley. Enjoy a challenging, partially shaded, one hour walk and be rewarded at the end with a large cooling waterhole, perfect for a well-deserved swim. Set at the base of towering 65m cliffs, the waterhole is graced by a droplet waterfall and a small thermal water outlet, which trickles down from the surrounding rocks.

Difficulty: Blue trail. Moderately difficult with some rugged creek crossings.

Take a walk along this narrow spring-fed creek through palm and fern clad escarpments to a small, crystal clear swimming hole, where you can relax and drink in the beauty of the rainforest. From this half way point the more adventurous can continue on a path, which increases in difficulty, for another 1.5 hours to reach the top where another crystal clear pool and waterfall await you.

Difficulty: To the half way point the first part of this trail is classed as Blue, relatively easy with some sections of broken rock and riverbed. From that point it turns Red and becomes more difficult. From the pool to the top the trail becomes less obvious and gets more challenging, this section is recommended for the fit and adventurous.

Amalia Gorge is best seen just after the wet season when a mass of waterfalls flow from one pool to the next. In the dry season it’s a fairly easy walk with some rock scrambling and ledge hopping involved. The trail leads to a waterfall and a beautiful pool half way and yet another pool at the top.

Difficulty: This hike is classed as a Blue trail, which translates to it being moderately difficult. Sections of the trail lead along a dry, rocky riverbed. Take a hat and some water as this trail offers little shade.

This natural oasis is a short walk along a trail, which leads you through dense Livistona Palms to a series of rocky thermal pools. Set at the base of sheer cliffs these thermal springs are the perfect place to relax and restore amongst the region’s local vegetation. It's worth noting that Zebedee Springs is only open between 7:00am and 12:00pm so plan your morning around a visit to the Springs so you don’t miss out on this most popular of attractions.

Difficulty: Easy walk along a well shaded path, just look out for the slippery rocks near the pools.

Follow this circular trail around Moonshine Creek where, for the first half of the hike, tall Livistona Palms and towering cliff faces ensure adequate shade. With plenty of areas to rest and cool off with a swim it is worth noting that the second part of the walk is more exposed to the elements. The circuit finishes back at the car park.

Difficulty: Blue trail, so moderately difficult. Sections of the trail lead along a rocky riverbed with creek crossings. This walk is best suited for relatively fit and able hikers.

Be prepared as hiking to Champagne Springs is a little different to all other El Questro walks, meaning that it’s a bit tricky. The 4.8km riverside trail is long and filled with broken terrain, particularly in the second half of the hike. However, its’s true what they say about there being no pain no gain so once you reach the top you’ll be rewarded with cooling pools, lush scenery and a cascading waterfall. The only thing left to do is take the much easier walk back down.

Difficulty: Blue trail, moderate to difficult. The second half of the trail and the top pools offer little shade.