The Katherine region is a bushwalker’s paradise. It’s also where you’ll find the famous Jatbula Trail.
The Katherine region has six national parks and many other reserves and conservation areas. More than 100km of walking trails wind through Nitmiluk National Park alone. Choose from short walks of 40 minutes to full-day hikes, or pack your backpack and head out overnight.
The Jatbula Trail, a walk of four to five days through Nitmiluk National Park, is a must-do for avid hikers.
Conquer the Jatbula Trail
Lace up your boots for one of the world’s best bushwalks, the five-day, 58km Jatbula Trail in the Nitmiluk National Park that takes in waterfalls, monsoon rainforest, stone country and Aboriginal rock art, camping alongside swimming holes.
The trail starts at the park’s visitor centre and ends at Leliyn (Edith Falls) on the park’s western boundary. The waterfall and pandanus-fringed plunge pool is a fitting reward for the trek.
Southern walks, Nitmiluk National Park
Explore the Katherine Gorge system and surrounding escarpment through a network of eight southern walks in the park. They range from 1.8km return to 39km.
You’ll be rewarded with spectacular views, swimming and camping away from the crowds. The network of tracks begins near the Nitmiluk National Park Visitor Centre with a climb, high onto the rocky escarpment.
Western walks, Nitmiluk National Park
Experience the western end of the Katherine Gorge system and escarpment via the Baruwei Lookout and Loop Walks.
The moderate Baruwei Lookout Walk is 1.8km return with views of Katherine Gorge and 17 Mile Valley.
The moderate Baruwei Loop Walk continues on from the lookout along the escarpment and back down towards the visitor centre. It’s 4.8km return.
Go underground at the Cutta Cutta Caves
Take the winding boardwalk down through the Cutta Cutta Caves, one of Australia's only tropical limestone cave systems, a 22km south of Katherine.
See fascinating stalactites of all shapes and sizes sprouting from the ceiling and crystals that look like spun sugar adorning the walls. The caves shelter the rare ghost bat and horseshoe bat. Guided one-hour tours run daily.
